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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
07:01
Working Memory Training for Older Participants: A Control Group Training Regimen and Initial Intellectual Functioning Assessment
Published on: September 20, 2020
Early-stage memory loss support groups: outcomes from a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Rebecca G Logsdon1, Kenneth C Pike, Susan M McCurry
1Department of Psychosocial & Community Health, University of Washington School of Nursing, 9709 3rd Avenue NE, Suite 507, Seattle, WA 98155-2053, USA. logsdon@u.washington.edu
Summary
Early-stage memory loss support groups significantly improved quality of life, reduced depression, and enhanced family communication for participants. These findings highlight the benefits of structured support for individuals with dementia.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Clinical Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Early-stage memory loss presents challenges for individuals and their families.
- Support groups can offer valuable resources and coping strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a time-limited early-stage memory loss (ESML) support group program.
- To compare the ESML program to a wait-list (WL) control group.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial with 142 dyads comparing ESML to WL.
- Primary outcome: participant quality of life. Secondary outcomes: mood, family communication, perceived stress.
Main Results:
- ESML participants showed significant improvements in quality of life (p < .001), depression (p < .01), and family communication (p < .05).
- Exploratory analysis revealed reduced depressive symptoms, improved self-efficacy, and enhanced social functioning in ESML improvers.
Conclusions:
- The ESML support group program demonstrates efficacy for individuals experiencing early-stage memory loss.
- These findings support the integration of such programs for dementia care.
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