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Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating equine-assisted therapy (EAT) into memory workshops for older adults with mild to moderate dementia. EAT is hypothesized to enhance cognitive function, promote physical activity, and improve mood through multisensory experiences. To ensure consistency and replicability, a standardized 8-session cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) protocol was developed, structuring interventions across cognitive, emotional, and motor domains.

Methods: A 3-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials .gov: NCT06662578) was conducted with 36 older adults diagnosed with mild to moderate dementia. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: equine-assisted therapy workshop (EATW), traditional memory workshop (TMW), or control group (CG). The intervention consisted of 8 weekly 60-minute sessions of cognitive stimulation in either EATW or TMW. Primary outcomes included the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and Quality of Life in Alzheimer’s Disease scale for long-term care facilities (QoL- AD NH) scores. Outcomes were measured at two time points: baseline (T0) and at 8 weeks postintervention (T1); no additional follow-up was conducted.

Results: Thirty-two participants completed the study. The EATW group showed significant improvements in cognitive function (+3.33 points, p < 0.001), depression (-1.08 points, p = 0.047), and quality of life (+6.42 points, p < 0.001). In contrast, the TMW and CG groups experienced cognitive decline, increased depression, and decreased quality of life. Significant differences were found in depression and QoL between the EATW and other groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: EAT workshops enhance cognition, reduce depression, and improve quality of life in dementia care. The standardized 8-session CST protocol ensures consistency and replicability.

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