Computerized cognitive training on touchscreen for elderly: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Digital Health

Background:

• Aging global population necessitates interventions for cognitive decline.
• Touchscreen computerized cognitive training (cCT) offers an engaging, portable, and cost-effective solution for seniors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of touchscreen cCT in older adults.
• To assess the impact of cCT on various cognitive domains.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of RCTs from 2016 to January 2025 using PubMed, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar.
• Meta-analysis of 34 studies involving 3,011 participants, assessing cognitive outcomes using tests like MMSE, DS, and TMT.

Main Results:

• Computerized cognitive training showed statistically significant positive effects on MMSE, MoCA, GDS, TMT, and DS scores.
• Touchscreen cCT demonstrated significant improvements in overall cognition, short-term memory, working memory, processing speed, attention, and flexibility.

Conclusions:

• Touchscreen computerized cognitive training is an effective intervention for enhancing cognitive functions in older adults.
• Future research requires greater standardization and rigor to validate findings and establish attribution.