The Effect of Solving Jigsaw Puzzles on Visuospatial Cognition in Older Adults: Jigsaw Puzzles As Cognitive Enrichment

Jigsaw Puzzles As Cognitive Enrichment

Meta-analyses indicate beneficial effects of cognitive training and cognitively challenging video games on cognition. However, cognitive effects of solving jigsaw puzzles - a popular, visuospatial cognitive leisure activity - have not been investigated, yet. Thus, the primary aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of solving jigsaw puzzles on visuospatial cognition. As secondary aims, effects on psychological outcomes (self-efficacy, perceived stress, well-being) and visuospatial everyday functioning (instrumental activities of daily living and self-reported cognitive failures in everyday life) are examined.

see References section below for the study protocol article

Inclusion Criteria:

• No cognitive impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination ≥ 24)
• Commitment to minimum jigsaw puzzle time (1 hour/day, 6 days/week, 5 weeks)
• Interest in jigsaw puzzles
• Low jigsaw puzzle experience (less than 5 completed puzzles within the last 5 years)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination < 24)
• Participation in another interventional study
• Self-reported psychiatric, neurologic or other disease, which could affect cognitive change over time
• Self-reported, severe visual impairment or motoric impairment of the upper extremity which significantly affects ability to solve jigsaw puzzles