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Cognitive Training Program to Improve Working Memory in Older Adults with MCI.
Lee Hyer1,2,3, Ciera Scott1, Mary Michael Atkinson1
1a Georgia Neurosurgical Institute , Macon , Georgia , USA.
Clinical Gerontologist
|February 24, 2018
Summary
Computerized working memory (WM) training improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Cogmed showed superior results in specific WM tasks and subjective memory reports compared to a sham intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Working memory (WM) deficits are a hallmark of age-related cognitive decline.
- Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) affects a significant portion of the aging population, impacting daily functioning.
- Effective interventions for WM enhancement in MCI are crucial for maintaining cognitive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Cogmed, a computerized WM training program, in older adults diagnosed with MCI.
- To compare the effects of Cogmed training against a sham (placebo) computer program.
- To assess the impact of the interventions on working memory, subjective memory, and functional abilities.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 68 community-dwelling older adults meeting MCI criteria.
- Participants were assigned to either the Cogmed intervention or a sham computer program for 25 sessions over 5-7 weeks.
- Cognitive assessments included WM tests, subjective memory scales (Cognitive Failures Questionnaire), and functional measures (Functional Activities Questionnaire) at pre-test, post-test, and follow-up.
Main Results:
- Both Cogmed and sham groups showed improvements in working memory over time.
- The Cogmed group demonstrated significantly better performance on the Span Board WM test compared to the sham group.
- Cogmed participants reported greater subjective memory improvement and showed enhanced functional performance on the FAQ at follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Computerized working memory training, specifically Cogmed, can enhance WM in older adults with MCI.
- Cogmed offers benefits beyond core WM tasks, including improved subjective memory and functional adaptation.
- While both interventions showed some benefits, Cogmed demonstrated superior outcomes and higher participant satisfaction.
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