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Updated: May 3, 2026
11:01
Examining the Characteristics of Episodic Memory using Event-related Potentials in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease
Published on: August 30, 2011
12.6K
Memory training for individuals with Alzheimer's disease improves name recall
J P Kesslak1, K Nackoul2, C A Sandman3
1Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4540, USA Institute for Brain Aging, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4540, USA.
Behavioural Neurology
|February 4, 2014
Summary
This study shows that a 4-week memory program significantly improved name recall in Alzheimer's disease patients. The training also enhanced cognitive function and behavior, offering a new approach for dementia care.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
- AD is characterized by cognitive deficits, particularly impaired new information acquisition and name recall.
- Existing interventions aim to mitigate cognitive decline and improve quality of life in AD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a 4-week memory training program.
- To assess improvements in name-face recall and other cognitive/behavioral measures in AD patients.
- To explore the potential of memory training to enhance cognitive function and neural plasticity in dementia.
Main Methods:
- A 4-week memory program involving name-face recall strategies was administered.
- Eleven patients with Alzheimer's disease and 11 healthy controls participated.
- Task-specific and standardized tests (Kendrick Digit Copy, Geriatric Depression Scale) were used for assessment.
Main Results:
- Alzheimer's disease patients showed significant improvement in name and face recall (p < 0.05).
- Controls did not show significant changes in recall.
- Patients also improved on standardized measures, including the Kendrick Digit Copy and Geriatric Depression Scale (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Memory training programs can be beneficial for improving name recall in Alzheimer's disease.
- The intervention positively impacted certain behavioral aspects and cognitive functions.
- This approach may offer a framework for enhancing cognitive function and promoting neural plasticity in dementia.
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