Promoting transversal skills for enhanced quality of life and inclusion in people with cognitive deficits: A bibliometric analysis

Abstract

This study aims to explore and analyze the exis4ng literature on interven4ons promo4ng transversal skills (TS) to improve quality of life, well-being, and inclusion in individuals with cogni4ve needs. By employing advanced bibliometric techniques such as cita4on analysis and keyword mapping, academic publica4ons were systema4cally examined across databases including the Online Knowledge Library (b-on), Web of Science (WoS), and PubMed. The selec4on criteria included publica4ons in English or Portuguese that focused on programs developing transversal skills, such as memory, problem-solving, self-regula4on, and cogni4ve flexibility, with an emphasis on health, well- being, and inclusion. The analysis demonstrated the effec4veness of a variety of interven4ons—cogni4ve training, physical ac4vi4es, and crea4ve interven4ons—that consistently showed improvements in execu4ve func4oning, memory, physical performance, and psychosocial well-being. Despite these findings, there remains a scarcity of comprehensive studies, with research on problem- solving and cogni4ve flexibility being more prevalent than on skills like self-directedness and crea4vity. Most studies focused on single interven4ons rather than mul4-skill strategies or broader integra4on into cogni4ve support programs. The findings provide quan4ta4ve and qualita4ve insights into research trends and gaps, offering guidance for policymakers, prac44oners, and educators. The study emphasizes the need for evidence-based guidelines and a more cohesive, interdisciplinary approach to research, advoca4ng for increased collabora4on and funding to explore under-researched areas. Ul4mately, this research contributes to advancing interven4ons that enhance the quality of life and autonomy of individuals with cogni4ve deficits, par4cularly within the aging popula4on.