We Are All in the Same Boat: Effects of a Five-Day, Multidimensional Intervention on Healthy and Alzheimer’s-Affected Older Adults Aboard the Nave Italia

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the effects of a five-day intensive intervention aboard the Italian Navy sailing vessel Nave Italia for both cognitively healthy older adults and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, focusing on autonomy, depressive symptoms, quality of life, and mobility. Given the limited sample size, the study is framed as a proof-of-concept investigation of a multidimensional intervention that can be experienced jointly by older adults and, in the case of dementia, within a supportive relational context. Methods: The program integrated the “Nave Italia Method” developed by the Tender to Nave Italia Foundation with cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, social engagement, and emotional support within a highly immersive outdoor experiential context. A total of 30 participants were involved: 10 healthy older adults and 20 individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (10 embarked and 10 remained at home). Because of the small, non-randomized cohorts, the analyses focused primarily on within-group pre–post changes rather than formal between-group efficacy comparisons. Results: Autonomy and depressive symptoms showed no significant changes, while quality of life improved in embarked individuals with Alzheimer’s disease for the timeframe participants were directly in the intervention and showed a positive trend in cognitively healthy older adults. Balance and gait improved in the healthy older adult group for the same intervention timeframe, likely reflecting the combined effects of structured exercise and physically engaging shipboard activities. The program strongly stimulated motivation, perceived self-efficacy, and active participation, highlighting the importance of experiential learning in facilitating the transfer of skills to daily life. Findings suggest that brief, intensive, and immersive interventions can act as a motivational catalyst by enhancing emotional, social, and cognitive engagement and supporting adherence to more structured programs to be continued on land. Conclusions: Due to the lack of literature on integrated and multidimensional outdoor experiences designed for both cognitively healthy older adults and those living with dementia, the study addresses this gap by exploring the potential of unconventional and immersive interventions to promote the well-being and quality of life of older adults. These findings support the feasibility and short-term promise of the intervention as a proof of concept rather than as definitive evidence of efficacy.