Sex Differences in the Effectiveness of a Lifestyle Intervention – Preliminary Evidence of the AgeWell.de-trial

Introduction Evidence suggests differences in modifiable risk factors for dementia between men and women. The AgeWell.de-trial was a 2-year multi-domain intervention addressing modifiable lifestyle factors to preserve cognitive function. We aimed to analyse differences between men and women at increased risk for dementia in the effectiveness of the AgeWell.de-intervention.

Methods Baseline and Follow-Up data of the AgeWell.de-trial were used including individuals aged 60–77 at risk for dementia (CAIDE dementia risk score ≥9; n=819). Generalized linear models and interaction-tests within Intention-to-treat analysis stratified by sex (men n=386, women n=433) and further by different subgroups (age, cognitive state at Baseline) were conducted. Outcomes were cognitive performance and secondary outcomes such as psychosocial factors.

Results Overall, differences between men and women were observed in the effect on depressive symptoms beneficially for women, not for men. Within the female group there was no further difference between the age groups but a positive effect on depressiveness if the cognitive state at Baseline was unremarkable. Further, a positive effect was observed in women on health related quality of life if they were at age 69 or younger. No effect was observed within the male recipients.

Conclusion A positive effect was observed in depressive symptoms for women, not in men. Within the female group, both age and initial cognitive state were crucial for respective outcomes. Our results support the importance of gender-specific factors for the effectiveness of a lifestyle intervention.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
22. August 2023