The Impact of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Cognitive Function in the Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Cognitive decline in the elderly is a pressing health concern, and omega-3 fatty acids have been hypothesized to mitigate this decline. Given their known benefits for brain health, including their role in neuronal structure and function, studying their potential impact on cognitive functions in elderly populations is critical.

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on cognitive function as measured by standardized cognitive tests in an elderly cohort over a period of six months.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial involved 184 elderly participants, divided evenly into two groups. One group received omega-3 fatty acid supplements, while the other received a placebo. Cognitive function was assessed at baseline and after six months using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog). The study lacked a longer follow-up period, which could be addressed in future studies to assess the long-term effects of omega-3 supplementation on cognitive decline.

Results: At six months, the omega-3 supplementation group showed a statistically significant improvement in MMSE scores, from a baseline mean of 28 to 29 (p=0.045), and a decrease in ADAS-Cog scores from 12 to 10 (p=0.033). Conversely, the placebo group exhibited a decline in MMSE scores from 27 to 26 and an increase in ADAS-Cog scores from 14 to 15.

Conclusion: Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation was associated with an improvement in cognitive performance in the elderly, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic option to mitigate age-related cognitive decline. However, further research involving larger samples and extended follow-up periods is necessary to consolidate these findings.