Effects of computerized cognitive training for cognitive and visually impaired: one-group pre- and post-test design

Studies have shown that visual impairment is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline. Individuals with co-existing cognitive and visual impairments are also at a higher risk of having disability, which can further impact on one's independence in everyday activities. Computerized Cognitive Training (CCT) is one of the non-pharmacological interventions in managing cognitive decline.

This study investigated the effects of an auditory CTT program in a group of participants with both cognitive and visual impairment.

Sixteen participants were recruited. Participants had cognitive complaints and visual impairment. They received eight sessions of auditory-based CCT once or twice a week for 45 minutes within a 6-week period for each participant. Pre- and post-assessments were conducted before and after the training. Neuropsychological assessments included the Cantonese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (CMMSE), the digit span forward test, the Chinese version of the Verbal Learning Test (CVVLT), and memory subtest of Neurobehavioral Cognitive Status Examination (NCSE). Pre- and post- mean assessment scores were compared.

Mean CMMSE score for this group of participants was 18.1. Significant differences were found in four assessments (digit span forward, CVVLT-Total: CVVLT-first trial, and NCSE-memory). No significant differences were found in the other tests. Additional repeated measures analysis showed age might play a role in CVVLT first trial and CVVLT total scores.

The study is limited by its one-group design. The results provide preliminary evidence that auditory-based CCT may be beneficial to attention and memory in people with both cognitive and visual impairment.