Effectiveness of a chess-training program for improving cognition, mood, and quality of life in older adults: a pilot study

Abstract

[Abstract] Background. Regular practice of a cognitively stimulating activity, such as chess, can help maintain a healthy cognitive, social, and psychological state during the aging process.

Objective. To evaluate the effects of a chess-training program on cognitive status, mood, and quality of life (QoL) in a sample of institutionalized and semi-institutionalized older adults.

Method. A nonrandomized, controlled pilot study with repeated measures (pre- and post-intervention) was conducted.

Results. Analyses revealed a positive impact of the chess program on general cognitive status (p < 0.001) and promising evidence (p < 0.043) of an impact on attention, processing speed, and executive functions. The participants in the intervention group also showed significant improvement in QoL scores (p < 0.021).

Conclusions. A 12-week chess-training protocol with two 60-minute sessions per week improved cognition and QoL in a sample of institutionalized and semi-institutionalized older adults. Further research with larger samples is needed to explore its effects in depth.