BackgroundThe aim of the study was to analyze the impact of adherence to the intervention components on the effectiveness of AgeWell.de, a multi-domain lifestyle intervention against cognitive decline, on function in everyday activities, quality of life, depressiveness and social isolation.ObjectiveStudying the effect of adherence on health-related outcomes.MethodsParticipants were aged 60-77 years at baseline and at risk (Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Ageing and Dementia Score (CAIDE) ≥9). Adherence to the components nutrition, enhancement of physical and social activities and cognitive training was analyzed in two ways, first continual within the intervention group (n = 378, mean age = 69.1 years, 52.7% female) and second as dichotomous split (75% adherence) and in reference to the control group (received infomaterial and regular health advice
n = 441, mean age = 69 years, 53% female). Generalized linear regression models were then run on the health outcomes functioning in everyday activities, quality of life, depressive symptoms, and social inclusion.ResultsHealth-related quality of life and depressiveness were improved in participants with better adherence to nutritional counselling and enhancement of physical and social activities. Better adherence to social activities was relevant for function in everyday activities. Effects of high adherence to cognitive training was found for improvements in depressiveness when comparing it to the control group. No effect was found on social inclusion when considering the particular components.ConclusionsThe extent of adherence to most components influenced health-related outcomes such as health-related quality of life and depressiveness. With this study, the effectiveness of AgeWell.de can be understood in greater depth.Trial RegistrationGerman Clinical Trial Register (DRKS
ID: DRKS00013555).