Effect of long-term omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation with or without multidomain intervention on cognitive function in elderly adults with memory complaints (MAPT): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial

RCT (n=1680 aged ≥70 years without dementia) found that the multidomain intervention and polyunsaturated fatty acids, either alone or in combination, had no significant effects on cognitive decline over 3 years in elderly people with memory complaints.

In the study, subjects were randomised to either the multidomain intervention (43 group sessions integrating cognitive training, physical activity, and nutrition, and three preventive consultations) plus omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (2 capsules a day providing 800mg docosahexaenoic acid and 225mg eicosapentaenoic acid), the multidomain intervention plus placebo, omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids alone, or placebo alone.

 

A commentary notes that the cause of sporadic Alzheimer's disease is multifactorial, and mixed pathologies behind dementia syndrome are common, therefore a one-size-fits-all solution is unlikely to be found. It suggests that tailoring interventions to risk profiles and different geographical and cultural settings should be the focus of future research. It calls for a global effort to create cost-effective, feasible, and sustainable prevention strategies.