한국치위생학회

Effects of the integrated cognitive function improvement program on cognitive function and oral and mental health of middle-aged people: an application of non-face-to-face arbitration

Eun-Seo Jung¹ Kyeong-Hee Lee¹ Su-Yeon Seo^2,*

Department of Dental Hygiene, Shinhan University
¹Department of Sports Medicine, Shinhan University

Abstract

We developed an integrated cognitive function improvement program comprising cognitive, emotional, and physical domains, and remotely applied it to middle-aged adults to investigate its effects on oral health, cognitive function, and mental health improvement. The experimental group underwent the program remotely, using the Zoom platform. A total of 24 participants were recruited and divided into 12 experimental and 12 control groups. The program comprised cognitive, emotional, and physical activities. The sessions lasted 90 min and were performed twice a week for 6 weeks from April to May 2022. Cognitive function, arousal, physical, and mental stress were significantly improved in the experimental group after the intervention than at the baseline (p<0.05). Regarding oral health, tongue plaque decreased 1.34-fold (p<0.01) and saliva increased 1.04-fold (p<0.05) in the experimental group after the intervention than at the baseline. Moreover, the experimental group showed significant improvements in tongue plaque and saliva than the control group (p<0.05 for tongue plaque and p < 0.01 for saliva). Regarding mental health, social support significantly increased 11.67-fold (p<0.05) in the experimental group than at the baseline. The experimental group also showed significantly improved social support than the control group (p<0.01). The non-face-to-face integrated cognitive function improvement program for middle-aged adults improved their cognitive function and oral and mental health. Based on these findings, this program may be a useful health program tool for middle-aged individuals.

Figures & Tables

Fig. 1. Study design and procedure