Positive effects of computer-based cognitive training in adults with mild cognitive impairment

This meta-analysis aims to assess the effectiveness of virtual reality cognitive training (VRCT) and conventional computer-based cognitive training (CBCT) in five specific cognitive domains (i.e., global cognitive function (GCF), memory (Mem), executive function (EF), language (Lang) and visuospatial skills (VS)) of individuals with mild cognitive impairment. A total of 320 studies were yielded from five electronic databases. Eighteen randomized controlled trials met the PRISMA criteria, with 10 related to VRCT and 8 related to CBCT. A random-effect model was used in determining the main effect of cognitive training in five specific cognitive domains. VRCT provided the largest effect size on VS and Lang while the smallest on EF. CBCT provided the largest effect size on Mem and Lang while the smallest on EF. VRCT and CBCT generate an opposite effect on VS. VRCT outweighs CBCT in treatment effectiveness of GCF, EF, Lang and VS. More immersive and interactive experiences in VRCT may help individuals with MCI better engage in real-life experiences, which supports skill generalization and reduces external distractions. CBCT tends to improve Mem but no definite conclusions can be made. Further investigation with more stringent research design and specific protocol are required to reach consensus about the optimum intervention regime.

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Computer-based Cognitive Training for Mild Cognitive Impairment

Alzheimer Disease & Associated Disorders ◽

10.1097/wad.0b013e31819c6137 ◽

2009 ◽

Vol 23 (3) ◽

pp. 205-210 ◽

Cited By ~ 154

Author(s):

Deborah E. Barnes ◽

Kristine Yaffe ◽

Nataliya Belfor ◽

William J. Jagust ◽

Charles DeCarli ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Cognitive Impairment ◽

Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽

Cognitive Training ◽

Computer Based

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Cognitive training for persons with mild cognitive impairment

International Psychogeriatrics ◽

10.1017/s104161020700631x ◽

2008 ◽

Vol 20 (1) ◽

pp. 57-66 ◽

Cited By ~ 143

Author(s):

Sylvie Belleville

Keyword(s):

Older Adults ◽

Cognitive Impairment ◽

Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽

Cognitive Training ◽

Large Scale ◽

Functional Decline ◽

Experimental Studies ◽

Positive Effects ◽

Randomized Control ◽

Meta Analyses

ABSTRACTRecent randomized control trials and meta-analyses of experimental studies indicate positive effects of non-pharmacological cognitive training on the cognitive function of healthy older adults. Furthermore, a large-scale randomized control trial with older adults, independent at entry, indicated that training delayed their cognitive and functional decline over a five-year follow-up. This supports cognitive training as a potentially efficient method to postpone cognitive decline in persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Most of the research on the effect of cognitive training in MCI has reported increased performance following training on objective measures of memory whereas a minority reported no effect of training on objective cognitive measures. Interestingly, some of the studies that reported a positive effect of cognitive training in persons with MCI have observed large to moderate effect size. However, all of these studies have limited power and few have used long-term follow-ups or functional impact measures. Overall, this review highlights a need for a well-controlled randomized trial to assess the efficacy of cognitive training in MCI. It also raises a number of unresolved issues including proper outcome measures, issues of generalization and choice of intervention format.

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Efficacy of an adjunctive computer-based cognitive training program in amnestic mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: a single-blind, randomized clinical trial

International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry ◽

10.1002/gps.3794 ◽

2012 ◽

Vol 28 (1) ◽

pp. 91-99 ◽

Cited By ~ 39

Author(s):

Adrian Gaitán ◽

Maite Garolera ◽

Noemí Cerulla ◽

Gloria Chico ◽

Mariona Rodriguez-Querol ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Alzheimer’S Disease ◽

Clinical Trial ◽

Cognitive Impairment ◽

Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽

Training Program ◽

Randomized Clinical Trial ◽

Cognitive Training ◽

Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽

Computer Based ◽

Single Blind

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A Review of Computer-Based Cognitive Training for Individuals With Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease

Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups ◽

10.1044/persp1.sig2.47 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 1 (2) ◽

pp. 47-61 ◽

Cited By ~ 4

Author(s):

Kimberly D. Mueller

Keyword(s):

Alzheimer’S Disease ◽

Alzheimer's Disease ◽

Cognitive Impairment ◽

Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽

Cognitive Function ◽

Cognitive Training ◽

Training Programs ◽

Early Stage ◽

Significant Evidence ◽

Computer Based

Computer-based cognitive training programs are increasing in popularity, not only due to trends in technological advances, but also due to the intense marketing campaigns of such programs toward late-middle-aged and older adults. This article's objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of computer-based cognitive training programs in maintaining or improving cognitive function in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD). Twelve databases were searched using terms related to computerized cognitive training (CCT) and MCI and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Two raters independently extracted articles using agreed-upon criteria. Due to the heterogeneity of the samples, interventions, and outcomes, data of the studies was not statistically pooled for meta-analysis. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and the findings were summarized. All of the studies reviewed provided support that computerized cognitive interventions are feasible in people with MCI or early-stage AD. None of the studies yielded significant evidence to support the use of CCT alone for improvement or maintenance of cognitive function in people with MCI or AD. Further, no studies presented significant evidence of transfer of training to everyday skills and tasks. Recommendations for evaluating products and for areas of research need are provided.

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