Working memory training format in older adults: individual versus group sessions

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Human Cognition

Background:

• Working memory (WM) training improves WM task performance and other cognitive functions.
• Previous research has not directly compared individual versus group training formats using identical protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of a three-session verbal WM training program delivered in individual and group formats.
• To assess the impact of training format on target tasks and transfer tasks, including executive functions and processing speed.

Main Methods:

• The study involved two waves, randomizing participants into either active training or control conditions.
• Wave 1: Individual training (n=11) vs. individual control (n=15).
• Wave 2: Group training (n=16) vs. group control (n=17). Training involved three sessions of WM exercises; controls completed questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Both individual and group training formats led to significant improvements in WM tasks, processing speed, and executive functions immediately post-training and at follow-up.
• ANOVA revealed no significant difference in training gains between individual and group formats.
• Effect size analysis indicated a potential short-term and follow-up advantage for individual training.

Conclusions:

• The training benefits for working memory and cognitive abilities are comparable regardless of whether the intervention is delivered individually or in a group setting.
• This finding broadens the potential applications of WM training across diverse settings and populations.
• While overall gains are similar, individual training may offer slightly greater short-term and sustained effects.