Cognitive Game Research Articles

Leveraging players' goal-setting and cognitive gaming elements to create flow

Leveraging players' goal-setting and cognitive gaming elements to create flow

Computerized cognitive games versus cognitive exergame: the comparison of motor and cognitive functions enhancement in the elderly

BackgroundConsidering the importance of cognitive and motor functions of the elderly people, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a cognitive exergame, called Neurolight compared to computerized cognitive games, in enhancing core executive functions and motor performance.MethodsA total of 36 individuals in the age range of 60 to 69 years were studied in the form of three groups: The control group continued their daily activities, while the Neurolight group underwent a cognitive-motor training and the Maghzineh performed a computer-based cognitive training program for 24 sessions. Before and after interventions, working memory, inhibitory control, and balance were measured respectively by the N-back, Stroop, and TUG tests.ResultsThe results showed that cognitive-motor exercises using Neurolight, for 24 sessions, were able to significantly improve working memory, inhibitory control, and balance in individuals in this age group.ConclusionThis finding supports the other studies suggesting combined cognitive and physical exercises for better effect. Based on its findings, the use of this exercise system can be suggested to coaches and therapists working with the elderly.

Predicting adherence to gamified cognitive training using early phase game performance data: Towards a just-in-time adherence promotion strategy.

This study aims to develop a machine learning-based approach to predict adherence to gamified cognitive training using a variety of baseline measures (demographic, attitudinal, and cognitive abilities) as well as game performance data. We aimed to: (1) identify the cognitive games with the strongest adherence prediction and their key performance indicators; (2) compare baseline characteristics and game performance indicators for adherence prediction, and (3) test ensemble models that use baseline characteristics and game performance data to predict adherence over ten weeks. Using machine learning algorithms including logistic regression, ridge regression, support vector machines, classification trees, and random forests, we predicted adherence from weeks 3 to 12. Predictors included game performance metrics in the first two weeks and baseline measures. These models' robustness and generalizability were tested through five-fold cross-validation. The findings indicated that game performance measures were superior to baseline characteristics in predicting adherence. Notably, the games "Supply Run," "Ante Up," and "Sentry Duty" emerged as significant adherence predictors. Key performance indicators included the highest level achieved, total game sessions played, and overall gameplay proportion. A notable finding was the negative correlation between initial high achievement levels and sustained adherence, suggesting that maintaining a balanced difficulty level is crucial for long-term engagement. Conversely, a positive correlation between the number of sessions played and adherence highlighted the importance of early active involvement. The insights from this research inform just-in-time strategies to promote adherence to cognitive training programs, catering to the needs and abilities of the aging population. It also underscores the potential of tailored, gamified interventions to foster long-term adherence to cognitive training.

Integrative Neuro-social cognitive Strategy Programme for Instilling REcovery (INSPIRE): a community-based cognitive remediation trial-study procotol

BackgroundAdults with schizophrenia experience a range of neurocognitive problems that affect their daily functioning. Evidence for the efficacy of cognitive remediation in schizophrenia has been established, but its implementation in under-resourced community-based settings is less well-studied. In recent years, interventions have also focused on the strategy-learning approach in favor of drill-and-practice. Moreover, there is an increasing recognition to address social cognition and negative symptoms alongside neurocognition.This study attempts to carry out cognitive remediation in a community mental health setting. The Neuropsychological and Educational Approach to Remediation (NEAR) is used as the cognitive remediation intervention. Neurocognitive and social cognitive games will be introduced during the computer-assisted cognitive exercises sessions. In addition, the instructional technique will foster the use of metacognition and cognitive strategies. Moreover, metamotivation training will be the focus of some bridging sessions to enhance motivation to engage in goal-directed learning behaviors.The aims of the study are to 1) investigate the effects of cognitive remediation on neurocognition, social cognition and functional outcomes of participants with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorders in community mental health settings; and 2) explore the mediators for change (eg: metamotivation, metacognition and negative symptoms) in cognitive performance and functional outcomes.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial will be conducted in three Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) centers, where standard psychiatric rehabilitation is delivered. Participants who are randomized to the experimental arm will receive cognitive remediation and psychiatric rehabilitation, while those randomized to the control arm will receive standard psychiatric rehabilitation only. Cognitive remediation is carried out three times a week for 12 weeks. It consists of computer-assisted cognitive exercises, as well as bridging groups to aid transfer of learning to daily living. Baseline, post-intervention and eight-week follow-up measurements will be collected. Group by time differences in cognitive performance, negative symptoms, metamotivation, metacognition, functioning and recovery will be analyzed across the three time points. Mediators for improvement in cognitive performance and functioning will also be explored.DiscussionFindings of this research will add to the body of knowledge about the key therapeutic ingredients within a strategy-based cognitive remediation program and improve its implementation within under-resourced community settings.Trial registrationThis study has been registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT06286202). Date of registration: 29 February 2024. Date of last update: 21 May 2024.

A - 4 The Potential Applications of Software Supporting the Early Detection of Cognitive Disorders and Dementia in Diagnostics and Prevention

Abstract Objective In Hungary, the process of diagnosing dementia is slow and time-consuming. Currently, there are no well-developed systems and strategies at the local level for screening, and there is no artificial intelligence algorithm that could determine early signs of dementia based on the patient’s digital behavioral patterns. Methods Two PILOTs were conducted using the PreDem platform. Over the PILOTs’ duration (2021.09.01.-2024.04.09), 61,902 test data were analyzed. The 259 participants completed SDMT-type tests, Stroop tests, and memory/word games. Results We established a unified system for task evaluation, facilitating cross-test result comparisons. Participants (n = 43,902) were grouped into three categories: 1st - presumed dementia patients (13,932), 2nd - diagnosed MS patients (16,175), and 3rd - presumably normal population (13,795). Comparing the first two groups to the normal population revealed significant differences, vividly illustrated by density functions. A key finding is the substantial improvement in individuals dealing with memory disorders and forgetfulness through regular cognitive game performance. Conclusion Study results reveal the PreDem platform’s potential as a valuable tool for early dementia detection and prevention. Combining cognitive tests and artificial intelligence, the platform can successfully identify early signs of dementia and cognitive impairment (90% accuracy), potentially leading to early diagnosis, treatment, and improved quality of life for patients and families.

The value of error-correcting responses for cognitive assessment in games

Traditional conflict-based cognitive assessment tools are highly behaviorally restrictive, which prevents them from capturing the dynamic nature of human cognition, such as the tendency to make error-correcting responses. The cognitive game Tunnel Runner measures interference control, response inhibition, and response-rule switching in a less restrictive manner than traditional cognitive assessment tools by giving players movement control after an initial response and encouraging error-correcting responses. Nevertheless, error-correcting responses remain unused due to a limited understanding of what they measure and how to use them. To facilitate the use of error-correcting responses to measure and understand human cognition, we developed theoretically-grounded measures of error-correcting responses in Tunnel Runner and assessed whether they reflected the same cognitive functions measured via initial responses. Furthermore, we evaluated the measurement potential of error-correcting responses. We found that initial and error-correcting responses similarly reflected players’ response inhibition and interference control, but not their response-rule switching. Furthermore, combining the two response types increased the reliability of interference control and response inhibition measurements. Lastly, error-correcting responses showed the potential to measure response inhibition on their own. Our results pave the way toward understanding and using post-decision change of mind data for cognitive measurement and other research and application contexts.

The influence of multiple cognitive workload levels of an exergame on dorsal attention network connectivity at the source level

This study investigates how adding a cognitive task on a balance board (exergame) affects connectivity in the dorsal attention network (DAN) during an exergame task. Healthy young adults performed a soccer ball-moving task by tilting a balance board with their feet while their brain activity was measured using electroencephalography (EEG). In this exergame, the speed of obstacles in front of the goal manipulated the cognitive workload. Higher speed means a higher cognitive workload. The study found significant changes in functional connectivity within DAN regions, specifically in the alpha band. During the shift from easy to medium cognitive task, we observed a significant increase in connectivity (p= 0.0436) between the right inferior temporal (ITG R) and the Left middle temporal (MTG L). During the transition from easy to hard cognitive tasks, strengthened interactions (p= 0.0324) between inferior temporal (ITG) and parsopercularis (pOPPER) were found. This suggests that the proposed balanceboard-based exergame enhances the functionality of specific brain regions, such as ITG and MTG regions, and improves connectivity in the frontal cortex. We also found a correlation between brain activity and performance data, highlighting that increased cognitive workload resulted in decreased performance and heightened frontal alpha activity. These findings align with research suggesting that adding cognitive games to physical activity-based tasks in rehabilitation programs can boost brain activity, resulting in improved decision-making and visual processing skills. This information can help clinicians tailor rehabilitation methods that target specific brain regions.

Autistic preschoolers display reduced attention orientation for competition but intact facilitation from a parallel competitor: Eye-tracking and behavioral data.

Recent research suggests that we might have underestimated the social motivation of autistic individuals. Autistic children might be engaged in a social situation, even if they seem not to be attending to people in a typical way. Our study investigated how young autistic children behave in a "parallel" situation, which we call "parallel competition," where people participate in friendly contests side-by-side but without direct interaction. First, we used eye-tracking technology to observe how much autistic children pay attention to two video scenarios: one depicting parallel competition, and the other where individuals play directly with each other. The results showed that autistic children looked less toward the parallel competition video than their typically developing peers. However, when autistic children took part in parallel competitions themselves, playing physical and cognitive games against a teacher, their performance improved relative to playing individually just as much as their typically developing peers. This suggests that even though autistic children pay attention to social events differently, they can still benefit from the presence of others. These findings suggest complementing traditional cooperative activities by incorporating parallel activities into educational programs for young autistic children. By doing so, we can create more inclusive learning environments for these children.

Can transcranial direct current stimulation combined with interactive computerized cognitive training boost cognition and gait performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment? a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundOlder adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) are often subject to cognitive and gait deficits. Interactive Computerized Cognitive Training (ICCT) may improve cognitive function; however, the effect of such training on gait performance is limited. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) improves cognition and gait performance. It remains unclear whether combining tDCS with ICCT produces an enhanced synergistic effect on cognition and complex gait performance relative to ICCT alone. This study aimed to compare the effects of tDCS combined with ICCT on cognition and gait performance in older adults with MCI.MethodTwenty-one older adults with MCI were randomly assigned to groups receiving either anodal tDCS and ICCT ( tDCS + ICCT ) or sham tDCS and ICCT ( sham + ICCT ). Participants played Nintendo Switch cognitive games for 40 min per session, simultaneously receiving either anodal or sham tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for the first 20 min. Cognitive and gait assessments were performed before and after 15 training sessions.ResultsThe global cognition, executive function, and working-memory scores improved in both groups, but there were no significant interaction effects on cognitive outcomes. Additionally, the group × time interactions indicated that tDCS + ICCT significantly enhanced dual-task gait performance in terms of gait speed (p = 0.045), variability (p = 0.016), and dual-task cost (p = 0.039) compared to sham + ICCT.ConclusionThe combined effect of tDCS and ICCT on cognition was not superior to that of ICCT alone; however, it had a significant impact on dual-task gait performance. Administering tDCS as an adjunct to ICCT may thus provide additional benefits for older adults with MCI.Trial registrationThis trial was registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.in.th/ (TCTR 20,220,328,009).

Assessment of cognitive games to improve the quality of life of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's patients.

The core objectives of this study centre on enhancing the quality of life and well-being of individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Our aim is to facilitate the monitoring of patient information, benefiting both caregivers and healthcare professionals. As part of the PROCare4Life platform sensorial ecosystem, a web application with six engaging cognitive games focusing on developing cognitive training and stimulating brain activity are developed. A set of metrics calculated by the application feed machine learning predictive models to evaluate the cognitive status and evolution over time. Long-term analysis of the daily cognitive ability information is used to generate high-level outcomes and identify deviations for each patient from the multimodal fusion engine. And based on these results, a recommender system provides a set of personalized notifications. A 3-month pilot study that took place in five different countries shows the results obtained from 93 patients. An average of 22.4 games were completed per day and the recommender system generated a total of 260 game notifications, 37.7% of them were marked as read by the patients. The Cognitive State Score and the Deviations in Cognitive Abilities measurement, calculated by the multimodal fusion engine, when used in conjunction present a good overview of the patient's current state and potential deviations. The cognitive games application was well-received by elderly individuals who took part in the study. This tool can be valuable for caregivers and healthcare providers in assessing the cognitive function of patients through engaging in cognitive games.

ElliQ, an AI-Driven Social Robot to Alleviate Loneliness: Progress and Lessons Learned.

Loneliness is a significant issue in older adults and can increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. To present the development of ElliQ, a proactive, AI-driven social robot with multiple social and health coaching functions specifically designed to address loneliness and support older people. ElliQ, a consumer robot with a friendly appearance, uses voice, sounds, light, and buttons through a touch screen to facilitate conversation, music, video calls, well-being assessments, stress reduction, cognitive games, and health reminders. The robot was deployed by 15 government agencies in the USA. Initial experience suggests it is not only highly engaging for older people but may be able to improve their quality of life and reduce loneliness. In addition, the development of a weekly report that patients can share with their clinicians to allow better integration into routine care is described. This paper describes the development and real-world implementation of this product innovation and discusses challenges encountered and future directions.

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

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.

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

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.

Computerized Games versus Crosswords Training in Mild Cognitive Impairment: The COG‐IT trial

AbstractBackgroundMild cognitive impairment (MCI) increases the risk of dementia. The efficacy of cognitive training in MCI is unclear.MethodIn a two‐site, single‐blinded, 78‐week trial, participants with MCI — stratified by age, severity (early/late MCI), and site — were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of intensive, home‐based, computerized training with Web‐based cognitive games or Web‐based crossword puzzles, followed by six booster sessions. In mixed‐model analyses, the primary outcome was change from baseline in the 11‐item Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale‐Cognitive (ADAS‐Cog) score, adjusted for baseline. Secondary outcomes included change from baseline in neuropsychological composite score and Functional Activities Questionnaire score at 78 weeks, adjusted for baseline. Changes in hippocampal volume and cortical thickness on magnetic resonance imaging were assessed.ResultAmong 107 participants (n = 51 [games]; n = 56 [crosswords]), ADAS‐Cog11 score worsened slightly for games and improved for crosswords at week 78 (least squares [LS] means difference, 21.44; 95% CI 22.83 to 20.06; P = 0.04). From baseline to week 78, mean ADAS‐Cog score worsened for games (9.53 to 9.93) and improved for crosswords (9.59 to 8.61). The late MCI subgroup showed similar results (LS means difference, 22.45; SE, 0.89; 95% CI 24.21 to 20.70). Among secondary outcomes, the Functional Activities Questionnaire score worsened more with games than with crosswords at week 78 (LS means difference, 21.08; 95% CI 21.97 to 20.18, p = 0.02). Other secondary outcomes showed no differences. Decreases in hippocampal volume and cortical thickness were greater for games than for crosswords (LS means difference, 34.07; SE, 17.12; 95% CI 0.51 to 67.63, p < .05 [hippocampal volume]; LS means difference, 0.02; SE, 0.01; 95% CI, 0.00 to 0.04, p = .02 [cortical thickness]).ConclusionHome‐based computerized training with crosswords demonstrated superior efficacy to games at 78 weeks. Common directionality was observed in the primary outcome of ADAS‐Cog (cognition) and the secondary outcomes of FAQ (function) score and changes in MRI hippocampal volume and cortical thickness (neurodegeneration). If these effects are replicated and expanded in future trials with the inclusion of a control group that does not receive cognitive training, crossword puzzles training could become a home‐based, scalable, cognitive enhancement tool for individuals with MCI.

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

AbstractBackgroundNeuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are increasingly recognized as early non‐cognitive manifestations of patients at‐risk of dementia and are associated with accelerated cognitive decline. While cognitive stimulation may be an effective intervention in improving NPS and quality of life of patients and their caregivers, there is a need for a digital intervention that is accessible and scalable so that the benefits of improving behavioral outcomes can be attained on a larger scale. Here, we studied the effectiveness of a novel multi‐domain digital cognitive intervention on NPS among patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).MethodWe conducted a pilot 10‐week open‐label clinical trial of 30 MCI patients using the NG‐001, a multi‐domain digital intervention. NG‐001 is a digital program which consists of weekly 1‐hour training in several domains: cognitive games; physical exercise; mindfulness (e.g., yoga and meditation); health literacy; and reminiscence therapy. Participants completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and the Mild‐Behavioral Impairment‐Checklist (MBI‐C) at baseline and at the end of the trial. Changes in DASS and MBI‐C scores were assessed using paired Wilcoxon signed ranked tests (two‐tailed) and effect sizes were reported using Hedges’ g.ResultMCI patients showed significant improvements in depression (4.643 vs. 3.214, g = 0.228), anxiety (6.357 vs. 3.786, g = 0.440) and stress (7.786 vs. 5.429, g = 0.356) scores as measured by DASS with NG‐001 intervention (Figure 1). MCI patients also showed significant improvements in MBI‐C total scores (3.29 vs. 1.43, g = 0.47), the apathy sub‐domain scores (0.96 vs. 0.21, g = 0.54), and the affect sub‐domain scores (1.25 vs. 0.43, g = 0.47) with NG‐001 intervention (Figure 2). Importantly, there was high compliance among the participants who completed the full 10‐week intervention.ConclusionA 10‐week multi‐domain digital intervention with NG‐001 reduces the severity of NPS among MCI patients. A longer trial with a control arm is needed to further determine the efficacy of NG‐001 for NPS among MCI patients.

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

AbstractBackgroundNeuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are increasingly recognized as early non‐cognitive manifestations of patients at‐risk of dementia and are associated with accelerated cognitive decline. While cognitive stimulation may be an effective intervention in improving NPS and quality of life of patients and their caregivers, there is a need for a digital intervention that is accessible and scalable so that the benefits of improving behavioral outcomes can be attained on a larger scale. Here, we studied the effectiveness of a novel multi‐domain digital cognitive intervention on NPS among patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).MethodWe conducted a pilot 10‐week open‐label clinical trial of 30 MCI patients using the NG‐001, a multi‐domain digital intervention. NG‐001 is a digital program which consists of weekly 1‐hour training in several domains: cognitive games; physical exercise; mindfulness (e.g., yoga and meditation); health literacy; and reminiscence therapy. Participants completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and the Mild‐Behavioral Impairment‐Checklist (MBI‐C) at baseline and at the end of the trial. Changes in DASS and MBI‐C scores were assessed using paired Wilcoxon signed ranked tests (two‐tailed) and effect sizes were reported using Hedges’ g.ResultMCI patients showed significant improvements in depression (4.643 vs. 3.214, g = 0.228), anxiety (6.357 vs. 3.786, g = 0.440) and stress (7.786 vs. 5.429, g = 0.356) scores as measured by DASS with NG‐001 intervention (Figure 1). MCI patients also showed significant improvements in MBI‐C total scores (3.29 vs. 1.43, g = 0.47), the apathy sub‐domain scores (0.96 vs. 0.21, g = 0.54), and the affect sub‐domain scores (1.25 vs. 0.43, g = 0.47) with NG‐001 intervention (Figure 2). Importantly, there was high compliance among the participants who completed the full 10‐week intervention.ConclusionA 10‐week multi‐domain digital intervention with NG‐001 reduces the severity of NPS among MCI patients. A longer trial with a control arm is needed to further determine the efficacy of NG‐001 for NPS among MCI patients.

Odor Identification Moderates Relationship Between Cognitive Training and Cognitive Decline

AbstractBackgroundOlfactory deficits have been shown to predict cognitive decline. Recent findings suggest that computerized cognitive training may reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. However, the impact of olfaction deficits on cognitive training outcomes is unclear. In this study, we investigate how lower odor identification may moderate the relationship between treatment assignment (cognitive games versus crossword puzzles) and cognitive outcomes in older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).MethodData were drawn from the Cognitive Training and Neuroplasticity in Mild Cognitive Impairment (COG‐IT) Trial (NCT03205709). In this two‐site, single‐blinded, 78‐week trial, participants with MCI — stratified by age, severity (early/late MCI), and site — were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of intensive, home‐based, Computerized Cognitive Training (CCT) or computerized Crossword Puzzle Training (CPT), followed by six booster sessions. 106 patients received neuropsychological and olfactory assessments through the 11‐item Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale (ADAS‐Cog) and the 40‐item University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT). In linear mixed‐model analyses, the effect of baseline UPSIT score on change in the ADAS‐Cog score from baseline over 78 weeks by treatment group, adjusted for age and baseline ADAS‐Cog, was assessed.ResultAmong 106 older adults (n = 50 [games]; n = 56 [crosswords]), higher baseline UPSIT scores predicted improved ADAS‐Cog performance at week 78 for all patients randomized to CPT (beta coefficient, 0.15, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02 to 0.27; P = 0.02). Greater baseline UPSIT score predicted improved ADAS‐Cog performance at weeks 12, 52, and 78 for early MCI patients randomized to CPT (Week 12: beta coef. 0.26, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.43; Week 52: beta coef. 0.23, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.40; Week 78: beta coef. 0.22, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.39). This was not shown in early MCI patients randomized to CCT. Higher baseline UPSIT predicted significant improvement in ADAS‐Cog for late MCI patients randomized to CCT at week 78 (beta coefficient, 0.24, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.42; P = 0.01).ConclusionOur results are consistent with literature, suggesting that impaired olfaction moderates memory decline. Our preliminary results show that individuals with less impaired olfaction may experience greater cognitive improvement following cognitive training.

Impact of rewards on cognitive game performance: Competition with peers increases enjoyment in easy, but not difficult tasks

Gamification has been widely used in non-gaming contexts to motivate participants to actively engage in tasks. However, game difficulty can alter the efficacy of different motivational elements (e.g., rewards, feedback, and leaderboards). To examine the relationship between game difficulty and participant motivation, we report findings from two studies (N > 400 for the two studies combined) on gamified assessments for cognitive executive functions. In each study, the same set of five different reward conditions are compared in a between-subjects design. The studies used cognitive tasks, implemented as modified Whack-A-Mole games, where students had to make a cognitively defined (e.g., working memory, or response inhibition) distinction between target (to be hit) and distractor (not to be hit) characters (moles). Response time and accuracy were collected along with rated game enjoyment and motivation. Overall, Leaderboard was the most enjoyable reward condition. The Within-subject Comparison condition provided self-comparison feedback and led to stable performance over time. A key result was that peer competition motivated better performance in easy, but not difficult tasks.

Pelatihan Permainan Tradisional Gobagsodor Dengan Menerapkan Nilai Sosial Budaya Pada Anak SD Citeureup 1

The rapid development of the times, the revolution has changed many things that must be kept, not to be ignored. Traditional games that are full of cultural and ethnic values, even those that are useful for the best development of children. Modern games that are considered more realistic and even more personal are preferred by children, must be exposed to better motoric and cognitive games. In this study, the theory used is Herbert Spencer's cultural theory which considers that people and culture experience changes at certain stages from simple to complex forms. In addition to the concept of children's motor development according to John Piaget, who has found that games will train children's cognitive abilities better. This research is to see how the existence of traditional games influences the development of children today. This study uses qualitative methods to see how children make traditional games into modern games for children's motoric and cognitive development. As a result, children who do traditional games have much more developed abilities and character. The role of parents and teachers Traditional games that hold meaning and tradition are also important to be preserved. The results of the research itself can be concluded in the game Gobag Sodor there are cultural values that have been applied in the game and there are components of physical conditions that exist in learning at school and in college, such as agility, speed, coordination, strength and balance.

Computerized Cognitive Training in Mild Cognitive Impairment: Findings in African Americans and Caucasians

BackgroundAfrican Americans with MCI may be at increased risk for dementia compared to Caucasians. The effect of race on the efficacy of cognitive training in MCI is unclear.MethodsWe used data from a two-site, 78-week randomized trial of MCI comparing intensive, home-based, computerized training with Web-based cognitive games or Web-based crossword puzzles to examine the effect of race on outcomes. The study outcomes were changes from baseline in cognitive and functional scales as well as MRI-measured changes in hippocampal volume and cortical thickness. Analyses used linear models adjusted for baseline scores. This was an exploratory study.ResultsA total of 105 subjects were included comprising 81 whites (77.1%) and 24 African Americans (22.8%). The effect of race on the change from baseline in ADAS-Cog-11 was not significant. The effect of race on change from baseline to week 78 in the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) was significant with African American participants’ FAQ scores showing greater improvements at weeks 52 and 78 (P = 0.009, P = 0.0002, respectively) than white subjects. Within the CCT cohort, FAQ scores for African American participants showed greater improvement between baseline and week 78, compared to white participants randomized to CCT (P = 0.006). There was no effect of race on the UPSA. There was no effect of race on hippocampal or cortical thickness outcomes.ConclusionsOur preliminary findings suggest that web-based cognitive training programs may benefit African Americans with MCI at least as much as Caucasians, and highlight the need to further study underrepresented minorities in AD prevention trials. (Supported by the National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03205709.)