IMPACTS OF COMPUTERIZED COGNITIVE TRAINING FOR OLDER ADULTS IN A COVID-19 PANDEMIC CONTEXT

Abstract

Background: Healthy aging it is possible to compensate for normative changes in cognitive performance, such as during digital learning, in which processes can benefit the global cognition and mood of healthy older adults. Objective: To verify the impacts of computerized cognitive training through an online platform, on mood, frequency of forgetfulness, memory complaints and quality of life of active older adults. Methods: 66 healthy elderly people were invited and divided into two groups, training group (n=32) and control group (n=34). Protocol: a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Memory Complaint Questionnaire (MAC-Q), a MAC-Nair forgetfulness frequency scale, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), the Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (GAI), and a questionnaire of Quality of Life Assessment Control, Autonomy, Selfrealization and Pleasure (CASP-19). Results: Elderly aged 60 to 92 years, who attended higher education (39.39%) and postgraduate education (42.42%). Participants in the training group had a reduction in the MAC-Q, MAC-Nair and GAI scores, post-cognitive intervention, and the deltas of the scores (Post – Pre). Additionally, there were significant differences between groups, in the total quality of life scale - CASP 19 - in the posttest. Conclusion: That participating in a computerized cognitive intervention made it possible to reduce memory complaints, reduce the frequency of forgetfulness, reduce anxiety symptoms and improve self-reported quality of life.