SINgapore GERiatric intervention study to reduce physical frailty and cognitive decline (SINGER)–pilot: A feasibility study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The SINGER pilot randomized controlled trial aims to examine the feasibility and acceptability of the Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study (FINGER) multi‐domain lifestyle interventions compared to Singaporean adaptations. Methods Seventy elderly participants were recruited and randomized into FINGER (n = 36) or SINGER (n = 34) interventions; involving physical exercise, cognitive training, diet, and vascular risk factors management, for 6 months. Results Both intervention groups were equally feasible and acceptable with participants completing at least 80% of the interventions. Body strength improved in both groups (Pupper body = .04, Plower body = .06, Pcore = .05). More participants in the SINGER group attained good blood pressure control at month‐6 compared to FINGER (41% vs 19%; P = .06). Discussion This study is the first to compare the feasibility of multi‐domain interventions adapted to local culture with the FINGER interventions. The findings will be utilized for a larger study to provide evidence for the efficacy of multi‐domain lifestyle interventions in preventing cognitive decline.

Keywords

• cognitive impairment
• dementia
• feasibility
• intervention
• lifestyle
• randomized controlled trial