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Faculty of Graduate Studies

Zoë Gilson

  • BA Hons. (ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ, 2022)
Notice of the Final Oral Examination for the Degree of Master of Science

Topic

MindMover: A Proactive mHealth Psychoeducation Intervention for Late Life Cognitive Decline

Department of Psychology

Date & location

  • Wednesday, August 6, 2025
  • 10:00 A.M.
  • Cornett Building, Room A228

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

  • Dr. Theone Paterson, Department of Psychology, ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ (Supervisor)
  • Dr. Jonathan Rush, Department of Psychology, UVic (Unit Member)
  • Dr. Sam Liu, School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, UVic (Member)

External Examiner

  • Dr. Jean Buckler, School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, UVic

Chair of Oral Examination

  • Dr. Barton Cunningham, School of Public Administration, UVic

Abstract

As the global prevalence of dementia continues to rise, early intervention strategies targeting modifiable risk factors are critical for reducing the progression of cognitive decline. Subjective cognitive decline (SCD), characterized by self-reported cognitive difficulties without measurable impairment on neuropsychological tests, has emerged as a key indicator of future dementia risk. The present study evaluated the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of MindMover, a six-week mobile health (mHealth) psychoeducation intervention targeting modifiable lifestyle factors associated with risk for cognitive decline, in older adults with SCD. This intervention, delivered via the Pathverse and MyCogHealth smartphone apps, included modules on nutrition, physical activity, social connection, intellectual activity, stress management, and sleep hygiene. Participants (N = 60, Mage = 67.5 years) completed weekly surveys and pre/post-intervention neuropsychological testing.

While recruitment was successful, adherence was variable. Multilevel models revealed no significant improvements in lifestyle behaviours over time, although a significant reduction in SCD symptoms was observed. App engagement was modest but significantly predicted a steeper decline in SCD symptoms. Minimal but statistically significant gains were noted on select objective cognitive measures related to processing speed, executive function, and memory. Findings suggest that MindMover is a feasible and scalable approach for supporting cognitive health in older adults with SCD, though stronger engagement strategies are needed to produce meaningful behavioural change and risk reduction. Future research should explore personalized, gamified content and use randomized controlled designs to evaluate long-term efficacy.

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