The Efficacy of a Technology-Assisted Block Training Program on Cognitive Function, Hand Dexterity, and Grip Strength in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Mixed-Methods Research
Phase: NA
Conditions: Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Aging, Cognitive Decline, Hand Dexterity, Muscle Strength
Sponsor: National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences

 
STUDY PROTOCOL AND STATISTICAL 
ANALYSIS PLAN AND INFORMED CONSENT 
FORM  
 
 
 
OFFICIAL STUDY TITLE: THE EFFICACY OF A TECHNOLOGY-ASSISTED BLOCK TRAINING 
PROGRAM ON COGNITIVE FUNCTION, HAND DEXTERITY, AND GRIP STRENGTH IN 
COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS: A MIXED-METHODS RESEARCH 
IRB PROTOCOL NUMBER: FJU-IRB NO: C113099  
Document Date: April 23, 2025. 
Statement of Translation: 
This document includes the English translation of the Study Protocol, Statistical Analysis Plan, and 
Informed Consent Form. The content is identical to the original Chinese version approved by the Human 
Research Ethics Committee of Fu Jen Catholic University on April 23, 2025. 

1. Background 
Aging significantly impacts the physical and cognitive functions of older adults, often 
leading to the loss of muscle strength, balance, and flexibility, as well as a decline in 
cognitive functions such as attention, memory, executive function, language, and 
visuospatial abilities. 
2. Objective 
This study aims to develop a technology-assisted cognitive training tool using 
building blocks, leveraging their potential to enhance creativity and visuospatial 
thinking. The goal is to assist older adults in improving their cognitive functions, hand 
strength, flexibility, and overall quality of life. 
3. Methods and Design 
This study adopts a single-group pretest-posttest design, recruiting community-
dwelling older adults aged 65 and above through convenience sampling. 
Participants will undergo a technology-assisted cognitive training intervention once a 
week for two hours per session, for a total of three sessions. 
The study will be conducted in three phases: 
Initial phase: Collect knowledge on aging-related cognitive and hand functions, and 
establish the foundational content for the building block tool and lesson plans. 
Mid-phase: Complete the design of the building block lesson plans and the 
development of the training tool. 
Final phase: Validate the effectiveness of the intervention in community settings 
while evaluating the usability of the technology-assisted cognitive training program 
and participants' engagement in the activities. 
4. Outcome Measures 
Cognitive function and quality of life: Assessed using questionnaires before and 
after the intervention. 
Physical function: Hand grip strength, finger strength, and hand flexibility will be 
measured. 
5. Statistical Analysis Plan (SAP) 
The effectiveness of the intervention will be analyzed using paired-sample t-tests to 
compare pretest and posttest scores on cognitive function, hand strength, and 
quality of life measures. Data will be analyzed using statistical software suitable for 
quantitative analysis. 
 

Fu Jen Catholic University Human Research Ethics Committee Participant 
Information and Consent Form 
Project Name: The Efficacy of a Technology-Assisted Block Training Program on 
Cognitive Function, Hand Dexterity, and Grip Strength in Community-Dwelling Older 
Adults: A Mixed-Methods Research 
Principal Investigator: Chia-Jung Hsieh (Professor of Nursing) 
Co-Principal Investigator: Yu-Ling Chen 
Protocol Number: FJU-IRB NO: C113099 
Date: April 23,2025. 
Introduction 
We invite you to participate in this study. This consent form provides you with 
information related to this study. The study principal investigator or researcher will 
explain in detail and answer any questions you may have. Please consider carefully 
before signing. You must sign this consent form to participate in this study. 
Research Background 
The global population is rapidly aging, and Taiwan is about to enter a “super-aged 
society.” Aging poses multiple challenges to the physical and mental health of older 
adults, with common issues including declines in muscle strength, balance, and 
flexibility. In addition, age-related changes in brain structure and neurological 
function can affect cognitive abilities such as attention, memory, and language. This 
study aims to explore how technology-assisted educational tools can improve 
cognitive function and hand dexterity among community-dwelling older adults. We 
will use building blocks as training aids, as they stimulate creativity and promote 
visuospatial thinking, thereby helping enhance overall functioning. This one-year 
study will be conducted in a community in Yilan to comprehensively evaluate the 
program’s effectiveness for older adults. 
Research Purpose 
This project aims to help community-dwelling older adults improve cognitive 
function and hand dexterity. We will use building blocks as technology-assisted 
tools, which not only enhance the quality of life of older adults but also support the 
promotion of healthy aging. Through this study, we hope to promote the use of such 
assistive tools in the community and further enhance overall well-being and health. 
We invite you to participate in this research to help us collect data and evaluate the 
effectiveness of these tools. 

Participant Eligibility 
Participants in this study are older adults residing in communities in northeastern 
Taiwan. 
Inclusion criteria: (1) age 65 or above, (2) clear consciousness and able to 
communicate and interact, and (3) willingness to participate in the block-based 
intervention activities. 
Exclusion criteria: (1) a diagnosed dementia condition, (2) significant hearing 
impairment or inability to communicate, and (3) hand fractures or physical 
disabilities that prevent participation in the activities. 
This study uses a single-group design and will conduct pretest and posttest without 
group assignment. 
Research Methods and Procedures 
This study uses a mixed-methods design, including quantitative assessments and a 
brief qualitative interview. 
For the quantitative part, you will complete pretest and posttest consisting of: 
(1) a demographic questionnaire (12 items, about 2 minutes); 
(2) a cognitive function assessment (10 items, 5–10 minutes); 
(3) a quality-of-life scale (5 items, about 2 minutes); 
(4) health function measurements conducted by the research staff, including a basic 
physical check-up, hand grip strength, and hand dexterity tests. Before the grip test, 
we will ask about any hand pain to ensure safety. 
There are no right or wrong answers. Please answer based on your condition over the 
past week. Questionnaires will be completed on site and collected immediately 
after. For the qualitative part, some participants will be invited to a short interview 
after the intervention to share their experiences and feelings about the program. All 
procedures are non-invasive, and your comfort and safety will be prioritized 
throughout the study. 
Possible Inconveniences and Risks 
Scheduling inconvenience: You will need to complete the questionnaires and 
measurements at the designated times (approx. 20-30 mins per session). 
Physical discomfort: Some measurements, such as the grip strength test, may 
cause brief discomfort but will not result in any long-term health effects. 
Psychological stress: Some questionnaire items related to personal health may 
cause mild emotional stress. 

Privacy risks: Although strict data protection measures are in place, there remains a 
minimal risk of data breaches. 
Expected Benefits 
Building blocks promote creativity and visuospatial thinking. Block activities can 
improve neural plasticity, supporting cognitive function. This study aims to use early 
cognitive screening to better understand the condition of older adults. For healthy 
older adults, the program may enhance cognitive function, hand function, and 
dexterity, improving overall quality of life. 
Confidentiality and Data Storage 
The original data you provide will only be used for this research. Your data will be 
processed and stored by National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences 
and saved on the researcher's computer with encryption. Paper documents will be 
kept in a locked cabinet. Three years after the completion or publication of the study, 
the data will be destroyed. 
Rights and Withdrawal 
Participation is voluntary. You are free to withdraw your consent and exit the research 
at any time during the study without providing any reason and without any adverse 
consequences. 
Contact Information 
If you have any questions or experience discomfort, please contact: 
Principal Investigator: Chia-Jung Hsieh (02-28227101 ext. 3109) 
Co-Investigator: Yu-Ling Chen (0958-270011) 
IRB Contact: Fu Jen Catholic University Research Ethics Committee (02-2905-6277) 
Signature Section 
 
I have explained in detail the content of this research project, as well as the risks and 
benefits. 
Signature of Explainer: ______________________ Date: ___________ 
I understand the content of the research project and voluntarily participate. 
Participant's Signature: ______________________ Date: ___________