Effect of mud pack to eyes on cognitive functions among geriatric population with mild cognitive impairment: A pilot randomised control study

Abstract

Background: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is considered a transitional stage between normal ageing and dementia and is commonly observed among older adults. It is associated with symptoms such as forgetfulness, reduced attention, and slower cognitive processing. Recent study indicates that MCI is highly prevalent in the elderly population, with a global prevalence of 23.7% reported among older adults Early non-pharmacological interventions play an important role in maintaining cognitive function and reducing the risk of progression to dementia. Mud pack application, a traditional naturopathy intervention, is believed to exert cooling effects on the body, stimulate cutaneous receptors, and influence autonomic nervous system regulation, thereby potentially enhancing cognitive function. However, only limited scientific studies are available regarding the effect of mud therapy on cognition. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of mud therapy on cognitive function among older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the cognitive effects of mud pack application to eyes in elderly individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

Objectives of the study : • To assess the change in global cognitive function (overall MoCA score) after six weeks of mud pack intervention compared to baseline. • To evaluate the effect of mud pack therapy on cognition using the Stroop word, Colour and Colour-Word tests.

Materials and Methods: • A randomized controlled study design was adopted for the present study. Elderly participants based on MOCA assessment score (18-25) with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and randomly allocated into study and control groups. The study group received mud pack application over closed eyes in supine position for 20 minutes, 3 days per week for 6 weeks. The control group underwent supine rest for 20 minutes, 3 days per week for 6 weeks. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) total score and the Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT)raw scores, including Word Score, Colour Score, and Colour -Word Score. The collected data were statistically analyzed using JAMOVI (Version 2.7.26).

Assessment: • Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) • Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT)

Intervention: • Study Group: Mud pack over closed eyes for 20 minutes in supine position, 3 days/week for 6 weeks. • Control Group: Supine rest for 20 minutes, 3 days/week for 6 weeks.

Results: The experimental group showed significant improvement in cognitive function and attention after the intervention. MoCA scores improved significantly (p < 0.001). Stroop test parameters including word score (p = 0.043), colour score (p < 0.001), and colour-word score (p < 0.001) also showed significant improvement, indicating better attention, processing speed, and executive function. In the control group, no significant changes were observed in most variables (p > 0.05), except for colour-word score (p = 0.005). Between-group analysis revealed a significant difference only in colour score (p = 0.022).

Conclusion: Mud application to eyes may help improve cognitive function, attention, and executive functioning in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment in geriatric population. The findings indicate that mud pack application over the eyes can be considered a simple and supportive non-pharmacological intervention for cognitive health.

Keywords: Geriatric Population, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Mud Therapy, Cognitive Function, MoCA, Stroop Test, Attention, Executive Function, Naturopathy