Group-Based Cognitive Intervention for People Affected with Leprosy and Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Clinic Based Study

Background Mild cognitive impairment represents a cognitive state between the subject memory impairment and early dementia. Proper cognitive interventions at this period can delay its development into dementia. However, it is yet uncertain whether cognitive interventions for people affected with leprosy and mild cognitive impairment have beneficial effects. Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of group-based cognitive intervention in people affected with leprosy and mild cognitive impairment. Methods We consecutively recruited the PALs who came to the neurology clinic in Sorokdo National Hospital form 2018 January to September complaining with cognitive decline. Of 25 patients who visited, 10 patients were diagnosed with MCI. 5 patients agreed to participate in structured group-based cognitive intervention (CogMCI) which was validated through nation-wide randomized clinical trial. For 12 weeks, subjects received CogMCI twice per week by a trained instructor. They were assessed with Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery-2 at baseline and postintervention. We performed Wilcoxon signed rank test to validate efficacy of the CogMCI program. Results In comparison to the baseline score, the subjects receiving CogMCI showed significant improvements in cognition at postintervention. Memory domain and Frontal/Executive function scores were significantly improved. K-Mini-Mental-Status-Examination was increased from 24.2 to 26.4 though not significant. K-Instrumental-Activity of Daily Living score was decreased from 0.32 to 0.18 and Short-term Geriatric Depression Scale was also decreased from 7.6 to 5.6. Conclusions CogMCI, the group-based cognitive intervention program, resulted in cognitive improvements, especially in memory and frontal/executive function domains in PALs with MCI. Further study is needed to assess the persistent effect of cognitive intervention program after it is discontinued.