The effects of an 8-week computer-based brain training programme on cognitive functioning, QoL and self-efficacy...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Cognitive impairment post-stroke significantly impacts daily function, quality of life (QoL), mortality, and healthcare costs.
• Effective interventions are needed to address cognitive deficits in stroke patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of an 8-week computer-based brain training program on cognitive functioning, QoL, and self-efficacy in stroke patients.
• To compare the effects of brain training against a control group receiving general brain information.

Main Methods:

• Stroke patients with self-perceived cognitive impairment were randomized into an intervention (computer brain training) or control group.
• The intervention group used Lumosity Inc.® for 8 weeks; the control group received weekly general brain information.
• Cognitive functioning, QoL, and self-efficacy were assessed using neuropsychological tests and questionnaires; adherence was recorded.

Main Results:

• The brain training program showed no significant overall effect on cognitive functioning, QoL, or self-efficacy compared to the control group.
• Limited improvements were observed in working memory and processing speed, closely related to the trained computer tasks.
• No transfer effects were found to untrained cognitive tests, self-perceived cognitive failures, or overall QoL and self-efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Computer-based brain training demonstrated very limited efficacy in improving cognitive function in the chronic phase post-stroke.
• Findings suggest that current brain training programs may not offer substantial benefits beyond tasks directly trained.
• Further research is warranted to explore the potential of computer-based interventions for stroke-related cognitive impairment.