ObjectivesCognitive training is one of the management options for elderly individuals who suffer from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and an effective way to improve executive function. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a magic intervention program as a method of cognitive training in improving cognitive function and neurocognitive performance in this group.MethodsTwenty-four participants aged 60–80 years with MCI were recruited and randomly assigned to a magic intervention group or a control group. The magic intervention group received a 6-week magic intervention program. The primary endpoints were the scores for the cognitive assessment tests [e.g., Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)] for general cognitive function. The secondary endpoints were the behavioral [e.g., accuracy and reaction times] and the electroencephalographic [e.g., event-related potential (ERP) P3 amplitudes] performance during the Flanker task to assess attention and inhibitory control. All variables were measured before and after the magic intervention.ResultsThe results showed that the 6-week magic intervention significantly improved the MoCA scores in the cognitive assessment tests although no significant pre-post intervention difference was observed in the MMSE scores. In terms of neurocognitive performance, the magic intervention had significantly positive effects on the accuracy, reaction times, and P3 amplitudes when performing the Flanker task.ConclusionThe results of the present study showed that the 6-week magic intervention had beneficial effects on the cognitive and electrophysiological performance in the elderly subjects with MCI. For such a group, lifestyle intervention programs that encourage participation such as the magic practice and performance may be a viable suggestion to prevent the progression of MCI to Alzheimer’s disease.

Background Magic‐based programs have been utilised to enhance well‐being across various health aspects. However, there is a lack of studies on whether performing magic tricks can provide mental health benefits for older adults living in the community. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of a magic‐based intervention program on self‐esteem, depressive symptoms, and quality of life (QOL), and to examine the relationship between these factors in older adults. Methods Thirty‐eight participants, aged 60–90 years, were randomly assigned to either a magic intervention group or a control group. The magic intervention program, tailored for older adults, was conducted for 90 min, twice weekly, over 6 weeks. The Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale (RSE), the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐15), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life‐BREF scores were measured and analyzed in both groups before and after the intervention. Results The magic‐based intervention significantly increased self‐esteem and reduced depressive symptoms in older adults, with large effect sizes. However, no significant impact on QOL was observed. Additionally, no significant correlation was found between the improvement in self‐esteem and the reduction in depressive levels. Despite this, a moderate but significant negative correlation was detected between the post‐intervention scores of RSE and GDS‐15 in the magic intervention group. Conclusions The study demonstrated that the magic intervention program was beneficial in promoting mental health in community‐dwelling older adults. Implementing magic programs in communities appears to be an effective approach to enhance self‐esteem and alleviate depressive symptoms in the older population.

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