Executive Functioning Training for Reducing Cognitive Intra-Individual Variability in People Living with HIV: A Pilot...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Cognitive training in people living with HIV (PLWH) has not addressed cognitive intra-individual variability (IIV).
• Greater cognitive IIV is linked to cognitive decline, reduced cognitive integrity, and increased neuropathology.
• The Executive Dyscontrol Hypothesis suggests poor executive functioning increases cognitive IIV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide the rationale and protocol for a feasibility clinical trial.
• To examine an executive functioning training intervention in middle-aged and older PLWH.
• To investigate the potential of improving executive functioning to decrease cognitive IIV.

Main Methods:

• A two-arm, baseline/posttest experimental design with 120 community-dwelling PLWH (aged 40+).
• Randomization into either a 20-hour computerized executive functioning training group or a no-contact control group.
• Assessments include the Connor's Continuous Performance Test (Version 3) and the BRACE+ cognitive battery.

Main Results:

• Feasibility and acceptability of the executive functioning intervention will be assessed.
• Exploratory analysis of cognitive changes (aim 1) will be conducted.
• The study aims to determine if executive functioning training can reduce cognitive IIV.

Conclusions:

• This study tests an innovative intervention targeting cognitive IIV.
• No prior studies have focused on cognitive IIV as an intervention outcome.
• The findings may offer a novel approach to improving cognitive health in PLWH.