PEMBERDAYAAN LANSIA DALAM PENINGKATAN FUNGSI KOGNITIF LANSIAMELALUI FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION DAN TERAPI JIGSAW PUZZLE

Abstract

Aging is a natural process accompanied by a decline in cognitive function in the elderly. This decline can affect their quality of life and independence. One effort to improve the cognitive function of the elderly is through empowerment which involves social and therapeutic approaches. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and jigsaw puzzle therapy in improving the cognitive function of the elderly. The method used was a quasi-experiment with a pretest-posttest design in a group of elderly people involved in FGD and jigsaw puzzle therapy for 8 weeks. The research results showed that there was a significant increase in cognitive aspects, such as memory, attention and problem solving abilities, in elderly people who took part in both interventions. FGD provides an opportunity for seniors to share experiences and information, which can stimulate critical thinking and communication, while jigsaw puzzle therapy helps train concentration, hand-eye coordination, and improves perseverance and spatial abilities. These findings indicate that the combination of FGD and jigsaw puzzle therapy can be an effective method in empowering the elderly to improve their cognitive function. The implications of this research provide insight into the development of elderly empowerment programs that focus on strengthening cognitive aspects through interactive approaches and fun therapy.