2018 was a big year for Maintain Your Brain

Article written by Tiffany Chau, Research Assistant, Maintain Your Brain, CHeBA
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Maintain Your Brain (MYB) is the largest trial in the world to attempt to prevent cognitive decline and potentially dementia through an online intervention program. Participants, aged 55 to 77, are screened for modifiable dementia risk factors related to four modules that comprise the Maintain Your Brain intervention: Physical Activity, Nutrition, Brain Training and  Peace of Mind. 

“Internet-based delivery of lifestyle interventions can prevent or delay cognitive decline, are cost-effective and allow scalability at a population level.”

Professor Henry Brodaty, Maintain Your Brain Principal Investigator, CHeBA Co-Director

A dress rehearsal of the main trial, the Pilot study, started in November 2017 and 425 participants consented to the study. Eligible participants went on to complete one of the four 10-week modules. The Pilot study concluded in February 2018. Based on challenges and feedback in Pilot, the Maintain Your Brain digital platform was modified in preparation for the main trial (e.g., extended recruitment period, clearer instructions and timeline for participants, ensured help was easily accessible on the platform).
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The Maintain Your Brain main trial recruited between June - October 2018. Of a total of 14,064 participants who consented to the Maintain Your Brain trial, 6,236 participants were eligible and randomised into the trial. The first group started their first module in July 2018, while the second group commenced in October 2018. Recruitment has now closed, and all participants are currently completing their modules (up to 4 modules). 

“Of course declining memory with age worries most of us. But together, we can search for the key to preventing memory and thinking problems!”

Ita Buttrose AO OBE, Patron of Maintain Your Brain

Maintain Your Brain will run for 3 years and if successful, it will provide a model for an intervention that is scalable for national and international use.