Descriptive exploratory study on the implementation of the Montessori method and its impact on the cognitive and emotional well-being of institutionalized older adults in Kuya S.A.S., Quito (January - March 2026)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70577/p90gdn45Keywords:
Montessori method; cognitive stimulation; older adults; geriatric depression; institutionalization.Abstract
This exploratory descriptive study addresses the cognitive decline and depressive symptoms affecting institutionalized older adults, a problem that impacts their autonomy and quality of life. The Montessori method, as a non-pharmacological and person-centered alternative, allows for stimulation of both cognitive and emotional areas. The study evaluated changes in cognitive and emotional well-being of institutionalized older adults after a Montessori activity program at the Kuya S.A. geriatric center, located in Quito, Ecuador, between January and March 2026. Twelve participants aged 65 years and older took part, assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) for cognition and the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) for emotional state; pre- and post-intervention measurements were compared using the Wilcoxon test. Results showed significant cognitive improvement: adjusted MMSE median increased from 21 to 24 points (Z = −3.176; p = 0.001), and depressive symptoms decreased, with GDS-15 median dropping from 7 to 4 points (Z = −3.213; p = 0.001). Pre-post correlations were very high (MMSE: r = 0.961; GDS-15: r = 0.977; p < 0.001). Findings suggest that Montessori activities constitute an effective support for cognitive and emotional well-being within the framework of person-centered geriatric care.
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