Scientists at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg tested the effects of a specially designed intervention aimed at slowing or halting the progression of dementia, and discovered that the drug-free method may be an effective one.

The researchers dubbed their intervention the MAKS system. It focuses on activities to improve motor skills and the ability to carry out daily tasks and cognition. It also includes a spiritual element.

Volunteers in the study participated in balancing exercises, low-impact sports, cognitive stimulation puzzles, gardening, food preparation and therapy sessions. Additionally, they took part in spiritual activities, such as discussions about happiness and singing hymns.

Authors of the study reported that individuals who participated in MAKS were able to maintain their day-to-day functionality, while a control group exhibited symptoms of further cognitive decline.

"We are currently in the process of extending these preliminary results to see if this prevention of dementia decline can be maintained over a longer time period," said lead researcher Elmar Graessel.