Development and effectiveness of virtual interactive working memory training for older people with mild cognitive impairment: a single-blind randomised controlled trial.

Abstract

memory training is a potential intervention for retaining memory and reducing dementia risk in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). this study examined the effect of virtual interactive working memory training (VIMT) in older adults with MCI. single-blind, two-arm parallel-group, randomised controlled design. retirement homes, institutions, and communities. a total of 66 older adults with MCI were recruited (mean age: 78.5 ± 7.6 years). participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group (VIMT, n = 33) or active control group (n = 33). The VIMT program used the CogniPlus (includes four training modules). Both groups attended 45 min sessions 3 times per week, a total of 36 sessions. The primary outcome was working memory; secondary outcomes were immediate memory, delayed memory, subjective memory complaints and global cognitive function. All variables were measured at pre-test, post-test, and 3-month follow-up. between group, the effect of working memory adjusted mean difference by 1.75 (95% CI: 0.56 to 2.94; P < 0.01) at post-test. The results were analysed by a generalised estimating equation, which indicated that VIMT group significantly improved working memory at post-test (P = 0.01) relative to the active control group. the applied VIMT program can enable older adults with MCI to maintain their working memory and reduce the rate of cognitive deterioration. This trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (no.: NCT02462135).