LatAm-FINGERS Study: Lifestyle Interventions Improve Cognition in Latin America

London – July 13, 2026 – The Alzheimer's Association-funded LatAm-FINGERS initiative has found that two culturally adapted lifestyle interventions improved memory, thinking, and general cognitive function in older adults at risk of dementia across 11 Latin American countries.

The findings from the two-year study, reported at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) 2026 in London, build upon and reinforce results from the U.S. POINTER study. These outcomes demonstrate that multi-domain lifestyle interventions, including physical activity, healthy eating, cognitive training, and social engagement, can be successfully adapted across diverse cultures, health care systems, and communities.

According to lead study author Lucia Crivelli, Ph.D., the results show for the first time in Latin America that culturally adapted lifestyle interventions can be successfully implemented in diverse countries and communities, providing cognitive benefits to populations often underrepresented in clinical research. Crivelli added that the program was adapted to local customs and dietary habits, making it practical, affordable, and feasible as a public health strategy.

For instance, physical activities incorporated culturally familiar forms of exercise, such as salsa and tango, along with group outdoor exercise in parks. Nutritional counseling adapted the MIND diet to regional food traditions by incorporating locally accessible foods like avocado, quinoa, and chia seeds. Study materials were translated and culturally adapted, with additional support provided for participants with limited digital experience.

Researchers highlighted that the LatAm-FINGERS study included significant racial and ethnic diversity, along with a broad range of educational and socioeconomic statuses. The results strongly suggest that the U.S. POINTER formula can be adapted for anyone and will be equally effective across diverse populations.