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Updated: Oct 13, 2025

Working Memory Training for Older Participants: A Control Group Training Regimen and Initial Intellectual Functioning Assessment
Published on: September 20, 2020
Randomized Controlled Trial of a Cognitive Intervention to Improve Memory in Heart Failure
Susan J Pressler1, Miyeon Jung1, Irmina Gradus-Pizlo2
1Indiana University School of Nursing, 600 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana.
Background:
The objective of this 3-arm randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy of computerized cognitive training (CCT) in improving primary outcomes of delayed-recall memory and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels; and the secondary outcomes were working memory, instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with heart failure (HF).
Methods And Results:
Patients (n = 256) were randomly assigned to 8 weeks of CCT using BrainHQ, computerized crossword puzzles active control intervention, and usual care. All patients received weekly nurse-enhancement interventions. Data were collected at enrollment and baseline visits and at 10 weeks and 4 and 8 months. In mixed effects models, there were no statistically significant group or group-by-time differences in outcomes. There were statistically significant differences over time in all outcomes in all groups. Patients improved over time on measures of delayed-recall memory, working memory, IADLs, and HRQL and had decreased serum BDNF.
Conclusions:
CCT did not improve outcomes compared with the active control intervention and usual care. Nurse-enhancement interventions may have led to improved outcomes over time. Future studies are needed to test nurse-enhancement interventions in combination with other cognitive interventions to improve memory in persons with HF.
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