NG‐001: A novel multi‐domain digital cognitive intervention for cognitive symptoms in mild cognitive impairment

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundMild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a prodromal stage of Alzheimer’s disease that offers a window for early intervention prior to dementia onset. The cognitive impairment observed in MCI includes declines across several cognitive domains, including memory, processing speed, and executive function. Emerging evidence supports a multidomain intervention to improve cognitive performance. Therefore, we aim to investigate the utility of a novel, scalable multi‐domain digital intervention as a therapeutic solution to prevent or reverse cognitive decline.Method30 amnestic MCI patients were enrolled in a pilot open‐label clinical trial of a 10‐week digital therapeutic intervention using NG‐001 delivered via a tablet. 27 participants completed the trial and their data were analyzed. NG‐001 consisted of weekly 1‐hour trainings spread across several domains: cognitive games; physical exercise; mindfulness (e.g., yoga and meditation); health literacy; and reminiscence therapy. The outcome composite scores were calculated from the Neuropsychological Test Battery including Overall Cognition, Processing Speed, Executive Functioning, Overall Memory as well as Immediate and Delayed Memory. Composites were calculated into Z‐scores based on normative data from age and education‐adjusted reference groups. Changes in the Z‐scores were then assessed using paired Wilcoxon signed ranked tests (two‐tailed) and the effect size was calculated using Hedges’ g.ResultCompared to baseline, at post‐intervention, MCI patients showed significant improvements in Overall Cognition (‐0.440 to ‐0.213, g = 0.352), Overall Memory (‐0.587 to ‐0.132, g = 0.407), Immediate Memory (‐0.549 to ‐0.030, g = 0.512) and Delayed Memory (‐0.626 to ‐0.233, g = 0.305). There were no significant changes in Processing Speed or in Executive Functioning (ps > .05).ConclusionNG‐001 significantly improved memory (both immediate and delayed) for amnestic MCI patients, indicating its potential as a form of digital therapeutics for early intervention of memory impairment in MCI. Further research is needed to investigate the mechanisms involved in this improvement, and whether modifications can be made to extend its facilitatory effect to other cognitive domains such as executive functioning and language.