Introduction:
India's ageing population is growing rapidly, yet preventive mental health interventions remain underutilised at the primary healthcare level. Group-based cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) offers a low-cost, scalable approach to enhance psychological well-being and delay cognitive decline in older adults.
Purpose:
This study evaluated the effectiveness of a weekly group-based cognitive stimulation intervention, "Ageing Positively," conducted at rural Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in South India. The program aimed to enhance social engagement, memory, and perceived well-being in older adults.
Method:
A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 60 adults aged 60 and above, divided into an intervention group (n=30) and a waitlist control group (n=30). The intervention included 8 weekly group sessions (90 minutes each) using memory games, attention exercises, problem-solving tasks, and structured social activities. Pre and post-intervention assessments used the WHO-5 Well-being Index and a brief cognitive screening tool developed for PHCs. Qualitative feedback was also gathered through semi-structured exit interviews.
Results:
The intervention group showed significant improvements in well-being scores (p<0.01) and modest but consistent gains in memory and attention domains compared to the control group. Participants also reported enhanced social interaction, increased self-confidence, and reduced feelings of isolation.
Conclusion:
"Ageing Positively" demonstrates the feasibility and impact of integrating group-based cognitive and psychosocial interventions into routine PHC services. The approach holds promise for promoting healthy ageing in low-resource settings and may serve as a model for community-led mental health promotion among older adults.