Remote group intervention for adults with cancer-related cognitive impairment: a feasibility study

This study aimed to examine the feasibility of a remote group intervention, Computerized Retraining and Functional Treatment Group (CRAFT-G), among adults with cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI). CRAFT-G is designed to improve occupational performance, objective and subjective cognitive functions, quality of life (QoL), and sense of loneliness.

A single-arm quasi-experimental design using mixed quantitative and qualitative methods was applied. Five cancer survivors with CRCI, aged 30 to 57 years, received the CRAFT-G intervention, which includes 6 weekly group sessions along with 18 sessions of individualized computerized cognitive training (CCT; 3 per week). Feasibility was measured in terms of recruitment, retention, adherence, acceptability, and potential effectiveness. Outcome measures were administered at baseline and post intervention.

The recruitment rate was 35% (6/17), and the retention rate was 83.2%. Partial adherence was found to the group sessions (80%) and to the CCT (40%). Participants expressed moderate to very high satisfaction with the intervention. Three main themes emerged from the feedback interviews: (a) group dynamic and therapeutic context, (b) intervention components, and (c) client factors. Significant improvements in occupational performance and clinically significant improvements in self-perceived cognitive function were also found, demonstrating potential effectiveness.

The results support the feasibility and potential effectiveness of the CRAFT-G among adults with CRCI. A controlled, larger trial should be conducted to validate these results.

A combined intervention approach of an occupation-based intervention along with cognitive training and psychoeducation about CRCI applied in remote group format may be considered when treating adults with CRCI.