FINGER research saw an important milestone at AAIC 2025 in Toronto (July 2025) as professor Miia Kivipelto presented the long-term effects of the 2-year FINGER intervention on lifestyle and cognitive change over 11 years.
Analyses are still ongoing, but some highlights and first conclusions can be mentioned.
- The findings provide the first evidence that a multidomain intervention lasting 2 years can have beneficial effects on lifestyle and cognition even several years after the intervention.
- Participants who adhered well to the intervention had sustained benefits.
Cognitive performance improved during the intervention period. While some decline was observed afterwards, performance remained above baseline even after 7 years. - The decline was slower among those who were more engaged and adherent during the intervention — a difference still visible at the 11-year follow-up.
- Supporting adherence is crucial in prevention trials and implementation efforts, with potential long-term cognitive benefits for both individuals and society.
- After the active intervention period, ongoing support may further help maintain the positive effects post-intervention.