Computerized Cognitive Training Research Articles

Effect of different durations of preoperative computerised cognitive training on postoperative delirium in older patients undergoing cardiac surgery: a study protocol for a prospective, randomised controlled trial

IntroductionPostoperative delirium (POD) is a common neurological complication after surgery among older patients, characterised by acute disturbances in consciousness, attention and cognition, usually occurring within 24–72 hours after surgery. POD...

Behavioural and neuronal substrates of serious game-based computerised cognitive training in cognitive decline: randomised controlled trial.

Investigations of computerised cognitive training (CCT) show heterogeneous results in slowing age-related cognitive decline. To comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of serious games-based CCT, integrating control conditions, neurophysiological and blood-based biomarkers, and subjective measures. In this bi-centric randomised controlled trial with parallel groups, 160 participants (mean age 71.3 years) with cognitive impairment ranging from subjective decline to mild cognitive impairment, were pseudo-randomised to three arms: an intervention group receiving CCT immediately, an active control (watching documentaries) and a waitlist condition, which both started the CCT intervention after the control period. Both active arms entailed a 3-month intervention period comprising a total of 60 at-home sessions (five per week) and weekly on-site group meetings. In the intervention group, this was followed by additional 6 months of CCT, with monthly booster sessions to assess long-term training effects. Behavioural and subjective changes were assessed in 3-month intervals. Biological effects were measured by amyloid blood markers and magnetic resonance imaging obtained before and after training. Adherence to the training protocol was consistently high across groups and time points (4.87 sessions per week). Domain-specific cognitive scores showed no significant interaction between groups and time points. Significant cognitive and subjective improvements were observed after long-term training. Voxel-based morphometry revealed no significant changes in grey matter volume following CCT, nor did amyloid levels moderate its effectiveness. Our study demonstrates no benefits of 3 months of CCT on cognitive or biological outcomes. However, positive effects were observed subjectively and after long-term CCT, warranting the inclusion of CCT in multicomponent interventions.

Understanding and enhancing post-stroke recovery: Insights from a nested qualitative study within the MindFit Project randomized clinical trial

BackgroundStroke survivors experience a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. In the MindFit Project, a randomized clinical trial, 141 chronic stroke patients were divided into three groups: mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) with computerized cognitive training (CCT), physical exercise (PE) with CCT, and CCT alone. The interventions were conducted remotely over 12 weeks, including online group and individual sessions. ObjectiveThis exploratory nested qualitative study aimed to investigate chronic stroke survivors’ experiences, opinions, and perceived changes due to the interventions within the MindFit Project. The secondary objective was to describe the broader experience of their recovery journey. MethodsTwenty-seven participants were recruited through purposive sampling and engaged in semi-structured one-on-one interviews. Twelve received MBSR+CCT, nine received PE+CCT, and six received CCT-only. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. ResultsParticipants shared insights into their lives after stroke, including emotional and physical challenges, coping mechanisms, and the impact of societal perceptions. The interventions were generally positively valued, with MBSR aiding in emotional regulation, PE enhancing physical capabilities, and CCT improving cognition. The group setting provided valuable peer support and motivation, although some participants noted challenges owing to the heterogeneity. The telematic format was also appreciated for its accessibility, although it posed challenges to personal interaction and intervention supervision. ConclusionsOur study emphasizes the complexity of stroke recovery and the importance of holistic, patient-centered rehabilitation approaches. It also highlights the value of combining physical and non-physical interventions in a group setting, along with the potential of remote platforms to enhance the accessibility of rehabilitation programs. These findings generate hypotheses for future randomized clinical trials aimed at improving post-stroke recovery.

Efficacy of Computerized vs. Traditional Cognitive Interventions for the Treatment of Chronic mTBI Symptoms Among Service Members.

Military service members (SMs) with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI or concussion) frequently report cognitive and behavioral difficulties. Currently, military clinical guidelines recommend clinician-run, manualized cognitive rehabilitation (CR) to treat these symptoms; however, it is unclear whether this approach adequately addresses the unique needs of warfighters. Computerized cognitive training (CCT) programs represent an innovative, promising approach to treating cognitive difficulties; however, whether these programs can effectively remediate cognitive impairment in individuals with mTBI remains unclear. A total of 65 SMs with a history of at least 1 diagnosed mTBI were recruited from a military hospital. Participants received 1 of 2 interventions: Clinician-run, manualized CR (Study of Cognitive Rehabilitation Effectiveness [SCORE]; n = 37), consisting of 60 total intervention hours over 6 weeks, or CCT (n = 28), in which participants trained with either a commercial CCT (n = 14) or noncommercial CCT (n = 14), for a total of 12 hours over 4 weeks. Participants were assessed pre- and postintervention, using a combination of self-report and objective outcome measures: Key Behaviors Change Inventory (KBCI), a self-report measure of functional difficulties; Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT), an objective cognitive assessment that measures both information processing speed and sustained and divided attention; and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), an objective cognitive assessment that measures information processing speed. Mixed ANOVA revealed no interaction effect between intervention type and time (pre- and postassessment) on the PASAT (P = .643, ηp2 = 0.003), SDMT (P = .423, ηp2 = 0.010), or KBCI (P = .434, ηp2 = 0.010); however, there was a significant within-group main effect (time) on all 3 outcome measures (PASAT P < .001, ηp2 = 0.54; SDMT P < .001, ηp2 = 0.25; and KBCI P = .001, ηp2 = 0.15). On average, participants showed improvement over baseline on the PASAT (SCORE delta = 6.98, SD = 7.25, P < .001; CCT delta = 7.79, SD = 6.45, P < .001), SDMT (SCORE delta = 4.62, SD = 8.82, P = .003; CCT delta = 6.58, SD = 10.81, P = .003), and KBCI (SCORE delta = -3.22, SD = 7.09, P = .009; CCT delta = -2.00, SD = 4.72, P = .033). Additional analysis comparing the relative effectiveness of the 2 different CCTs revealed that while training with either program resulted in improved performance on the PASAT (P < .001, ηp2 = 0.627), SDMT (P = .003, ηp2 = 0.286), and KBCI (P = .036, ηp2 = 0.158), there was no interaction effect of CCT program type and change over time for any measure (PASAT P = .102, ηp2 = 1.00; SDMT P = .317, ηp2 = 0.038; and KBCI P = .719, ηp2 = 0.005). We showed that CCT programs do not differ in efficacy compared to clinician-run, manualized CR for treating symptoms associated with mTBI; however, exploratory analyses suggest that each approach may have distinct advantages for treating specific symptoms. Additionally, we showed that the improvement in the CCT intervention did not differ between those who trained using the commercial program vs. those who trained with the noncommercial program.

Dose–response relationship between computerized cognitive training and cognitive improvement

Although computerized cognitive training (CCT) is an effective digital intervention for cognitive impairment, its dose-response relationship is understudied. This retrospective cohort study explores the association between training dose and cognitive improvement to find the optimal CCT dose. From 2017 to 2022, 8,709 participants with subjective cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, and mild dementia were analyzed. CCT exposure varied in daily dose and frequency, with cognitive improvement measured weekly using Cognitive Index. A mixed-effects model revealed significant Cognitive Index increases across most dose groups before reaching the optimal dose. For participants under 60 years, the optimal dose was 25 to <30 min per day for 6 days a week. For those 60 years or older, it was 50 to <55 min per day for 6 days a week. These findings highlight a dose-dependent effect in CCT, suggesting age-specific optimal dosing for cognitive improvement.

Computerized Cognitive Training in the Older Workforce: Effects on Cognition, Life Satisfaction, and Productivity

Background: The accelerated aging of the world’s population will lead to an increase in the number of older people in the workforce. Computerized Cognitive Training (CCT) is effective in improving cognitive outcomes, but its benefits for older workers remain controversial. We investigate the real-world efficacy of CCT in the workplace, focusing on employees aged 50+ years from a public sector agency. Methods: Case managers (n = 82) were randomized to either an intervention group (24 40 min CCT sessions two times per week) or a waiting list passive control group. Cognitive ability, well-being, job satisfaction, and productivity outcome measures were collected and assessed before and after CCT or the comparable control wait time. Results: Participants undergoing CCT improved on a task of executive functioning (p = 0.04). There was a trend toward a change in work productivity after CCT (p = 0.09), with the control group showing a significant decrease (p = 0.02), while the intervention group remained stable. Conclusions: CCT during office hours has a positive effect on cognition and well-being without affecting productivity among white-collar office workers. CCT could be considered as an intervention to support the older workforce in managing the cognitive and behavioral challenges of changing workplace demands.

Exploring transfer effects on memory and its neural mechanisms through a computerized cognitive training in mild cognitive impairment: randomized controlled trial.

Computerized cognitive training (CCT) has been proposed as a potential therapy for cognitive decline. One of the benefits of CCT is a transfer effect, but its mechanism on the memory domain is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the transfer effect of non-memory multidomain CCT on the memory domain and its neural basis in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through a randomized controlled trial. Patients with MCI recruited from memory clinics were randomly assigned to either the CCT or the control group. The CCT group received multidomain CCT training excluding memory training, while the control group read educational books with learning-based quizzes twice a week for 8 weeks. Participants underwent memory tests yielding a composite score, other cognitive domain tests, non-cognitive scales, and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI), at baseline and after intervention. Within- and between-group comparisons, group × time interactions, and seed-to-voxel analyses in memory-involving brain networks were performed. The CCT group showed improvement over the control group in memory domain (Group × time, F = 5.87, P = 0.03, η2 = 0.31), which was related with the increased connectivity in the hippocampal-frontal and fusiform-occipital network. No other cognitive and non-cognitive symptoms differed between groups after adjusting for covariates. Eight weeks of multidomain CCT without memory training improved memory function and restored functional network in the hippocampal and medial temporal region in MCI patients. These results can provide evidence for the transferring ability of CCT on memory functioning with its neural basis.

Effects of computerized cognitive training on biomarker responses in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A scoping review.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a widespread condition in older individuals, posing significant risk of dementia. However, limited research has been conducted to explore effective interventions and clarify their impact at the neural level. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of computerized cognitive training (CCT) and explore the associated neural mechanisms in preventing dementia in older individuals with MCI, with a view to inform future intervention efforts. We reviewed the effects of CCT on biomarker outcomes in older adults with MCI. The search was conducted for studies published between 2010 and May 10, 2023, using three search engines: PubMed, Scopus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. The inclusion criteria were as follows: studies that involved participants diagnosed with MCI, included CCT, included quantitative assessment of biomarker results, and conducted randomized controlled trials. Sixteen studies that used biomarkers, including magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography (EEG), functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and blood or salivary biomarkers, were extracted. The results showed that CCT caused changes in structure and function within the main brain network, including the default mode network, and decreased both theta rhythm activity on EEG and prefrontal activity on fNIRS, with improvement in cognitive function. Furthermore, CCT combined with physical exercise showed more significant structural and functional changes in extensive brain regions compared with CCT alone. Virtual reality-based cognitive training improved not only executive function but also instrumental activities of daily living. CCT causes functional and structural changes in extensive brain regions and improves cognitive function in older adults with MCI. Our findings highlight the potential of individualized intervention methods and biomarker assessment according to the specific causes of MCI. Future research should aim to optimize these personalized therapeutic strategies to maximize the benefits of CCT in older adults with MCI.

The Effect of Computerized Cognitive Training, with and without Exercise, on Cortical Volume and Thickness and Its Association with Gait Speed in Older Adults: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Slower walking is associated with changes in cortical volume and thickness. Computerized cognitive training (CCT) and exercise improve cortical volume and thickness and thus, may promote gait speed. Slowing of gait is predictive of Alzheimer's disease. To examine: 1) the effect of CCT, with or without physical exercise, on cortical volume and thickness and; 2) the association of changes in cortical volume and thickness with changes in gait speed. A subset of 124 adults (n = 53), aged 65-85 years, enrolled in an 8-week randomized controlled trial and completed T1-weighted MRI and 4-meter walk at baseline and 8 weeks. Participants were randomized to: 1) active control (BAT; n = 19); 2) CCT (n = 17); or 3) CCT preceded by exercise (Ex-CCT; n = 17). Change in cortical volume and thickness were assessed and compared across all groups using Freesurfer. BAT versus CCT increased left rostral middle frontal gyrus volume (p = 0.027) and superior temporal gyrus thickness (p = 0.039). Ex-CCT versus CCT increased left cuneus thickness (p < 0.001) and right post central gyrus thickness (p = 0.005), and volume (p < 0.001). Ex-CCT versus BAT increased left (p = 0.001) and right (p = 0.020) superior parietal gyri thickness. There were no significant between-group differences in gait speed (p > 0.175). Increased left superior parietal volume (p = 0.036, r = 0.340) and thickness (p = 0.002, r = 0.348), right post central volume (p = .017, r = 0.341) and thickness (p = 0.001, r = 0.348), left banks of superior temporal sulcus thickness (p = 0.002, r = 0.356), and left precuneus thickness (p < 0.001, r = 0.346) were associated with increased gait speed. CCT with physical exercise, but not CCT alone, improves cortical volume and thickness in older adults. These changes may contribute to the maintenance of gait speed in aging.

Effects and mechanisms of computerized cognitive training in Huntington's disease: protocol for a pilot study

Huntington's disease (HD) causes progressive cognitive decline, with no available treatments. Computerized cognitive training (CCT) has shown efficacy in other populations, but its effects in HD are largely unknown. This pilot study will explore the effects and neural mechanisms of CCT in HD. The intervention group participants will complete 12 weeks of multidomain CCT. Control group participants will receive lifestyle education and access to CCT after the study. The primary outcome is change in processing speed. Secondary outcomes include – change in other cognitive domains, functional brain network connectivity (derived from MRI) and psychosocial function. Feasibility outcomes include rates of recruitment, adherence and retention. This study may provide insights into the effects of CCT in HD and guide future trials. Clinical Trial Registration: ACTRN12622000908730 ( ClinicalTrials.gov )

Efficacy and Concurrent Validity of Computerized Brain Training Based on Everyday Living (BTEL) Based on Instrumental Activities of Living for Cognitively Healthy Old Individuals: A Preliminary Study

Background: Interventions to prevent or attenuate cognitive decline and dementia in older adults are becoming increasingly important. Recently, cognitive training exercise can be via computer or mobile technology for independent or home use. Recent meta-analysis has reported that Computerized Cognitive Training (CCT) is effective at enhancing cognitive function in healthy older and Alzheimer’s disease adults, although little is known about individual characteristics of each computerized program. Objective: We developed a new CCT named Brain Training Based on Everyday Living (BTEL) to enhance cognitive capacity for Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). We aim to evaluate the efficacy of the BTEL among cognitively healthy old individuals and to explore its concurrent validity and construct concept. Methods: We conducted a double-blind study where 106 individuals aged 65 years and older (intervened = 53, control = 53) worked on the active and placebo tasks three times a week over three months (clinical trial: UMIN000048730). The main results were examined using ANCOVA and calculating correlation coefficients. Results: We found no effect on total score of the three tests; however, there was significant effect for the BTEL on: recognition in MMSE, and immediate recall in HDSR. The tasks are associated with prefrontal cortex. In addition, correlations indicated that each BTEL domain had some validity as a cognitive assessment tool. Different from previous CCT, we determined the neuropsychological characteristics of specific cognitive tasks of the BTEL to a certain degree. Conclusions: We found modest efficacy of the BTEL in cognitively healthy old individuals and confirmed its concurrent validity and the conceptual construct.

Effectiveness of Computerized Cognitive Training on Working Memory in Pediatric Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Interactive features of computerized cognitive training (CCT) may enhance adherence to training, providing a relatively low-cost intervention. A robust systematic review on the effectiveness of CCT for improving working memory (WM) among pediatric survivors with cancer is lacking. To summarize the available evidence and determine the effectiveness of CCT for WM among pediatric survivors with cancer. Five databases were searched. The Effective Public Health Practice Project was used to assess the study quality. ReviewerManager was used. The primary outcome was WM performance. Secondary outcomes included processing speed, attention, intervention adherence, and number of adverse events. Six studies were included. Regarding overall quality, 1 study was weak, and 5 studies were moderate. Five studies reported a significant improvement of WM postintervention (P < .05). The meta-analysis of Cogmed interventions on symbolic WM revealed a significant difference between groups (vs placebo), with an overall pooled effect size of 0.71 (95% confidence interval, 0.02-1.41; P = .04). Two and 4 studies investigated the effects of CCT on processing speed and attention, respectively, with conflicting results. Four studies reported adherence of 80% or greater. Two studies reported no adverse events. Computerized cognitive training using Cogmed has a significant positive effect on WM. The effects of CCT on processing speed and attention remain inconclusive. More rigorous trials should be conducted to elucidate the cognitive effects of CCT, particularly processing speed and attention, in the pediatric population with cancer. Further studies should consider combining CCT with other existing interventions to strengthen their effectiveness.

Development of a Cognitive Training Support Programme for prevention of dementia and cognitive decline in at-risk older adults.

Evidence for the beneficial effects of cognitive training on cognitive function and daily living activities is inconclusive. Variable study quality and design does not allow for robust comparisons/meta-analyses of different cognitive training programmes. Fairly low adherence to extended cognitive training interventions in clinical trials has been reported. The aim of further developing a Cognitive Training Support Programme (CTSP) is to supplement the Computerised Cognitive Training (CCT) intervention component of the multimodal Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER), which is adapted to different cultural, regional and economic settings within the Word-Wide FINGERS (WW-FINGERS) Network. The main objectives are to improve adherence to cognitive training through a behaviour change framework and provide information about cognitive stimulation, social engagement and lifestyle risk factors for dementia. Six CTSP sessions were re-designed covering topics including (1) CCT instructions and tasks, (2) Cognitive domains: episodic memory, executive function and processing speed, (3) Successful ageing and compensatory strategies, (4) Cognitive stimulation and engagement, (5) Wellbeing factors affecting cognition (e.g., sleep and mood), (6) Sensory factors. Session content will be related to everyday life, with participant reflection and behaviour change techniques incorporated, e.g., strategies, goal-setting, active planning to enhance motivation, and adherence to the CCT and in relevant lifestyle changes. Through interactive presentations promoting brain health, the programme provides for personal reflection that may enhance capability, opportunity and motivation for behaviour change. This will support adherence to the CCT within multidomain intervention trials. Efficacy of the programme will be evaluated through participant feedback and adherence metrics.

Improvements in performance based measures of functional capacity and cognition after computerized functional skills training in older people with mild cognitive impairment and healthy comparators

With no pharmacological treatments for Mild Cognitive impairment (MCI), computerized training strategies have been attempted. A computerized skills training intervention, FUNSAT, previously produced training-related gains in cognition in MCI and in comparators with normal cognition (NC). A new remotely delivered version of FUNSAT was administered to a new sample of participants with NC and MCI. Outcomes measures included cognition (BAC) and functional capacity (VRFCAT) to examine training transfer. Participants with MCI (n = 92) and NC (n = 72) trained for up to 12 weeks on FUNSAT. Half the MCI participants started with 3 weeks of computerized cognitive training (CCT). Baseline, post-training, and 30-day follow-up scores on cognition and functional capacity were compared. Participants improved on both cognition (d = 0.80) and functional capacity (d = 0.64), with no differences in training gains across MCI and NC, although treatment with CCT in MCI was associated with similar gains with fewer FUNSAT training sessions. This is the first treatment study in MCI to demonstrate transfer to untrained measures of functional capacity. NC improved in cognition and functional capacity with skills training alone. These findings have implications for other conditions, such as schizophrenia, where functional capacity is a treatment target.

White Matter Plasticity Underpins Cognitive Gains After Multidomain Adaptive Computerized Cognitive Training.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of computerized cognitive training (CCT) on white matter (WM) neuroplasticity and neuropsychological performance. A total of 128 community older adults (64.36 ± 6.14 years) were recruited and randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. Participants in the intervention group received a home-based, multidomain, and adaptive CCT for 30 minutes, 2 days per week for 1 year. Neuropsychological assessments, diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and T1-weighted structural MRI were performed at the pre- and post-intervention visits. Eighty-one of 128 participants (41 in the intervention group and 40 in the control group) completed the 1-year intervention, and 61 of them (27 in the intervention group and 34 in the control group) underwent MRI scans twice. After excluding attrition bias, a significant time-by-group interaction on the Stroop Color-Word Test (SCWT; F = 51.85, p < .001) was found, showing improvement in the intervention group and a decline in the control group. At the brain level, the intervention group exhibited increased axial diffusivity in the left posterior thalamic radiation, and this increase was significantly correlated with reduced SCWT reaction time (r = ‒0.42, p = .029). No significant time-by-group interactions were found for gray matter volume. Our findings suggest that conducting multidomain adaptive CCT is an effective and feasible method to counteract cognitive decline in older adults, with WM neuroplasticity underpinning cognitive improvements. This study contributes to the understanding of the neural basis for the beneficial effect of CCT for older adults.

Effect of cognitive training on cognitive function in community-dwelling older people with mild-to-moderate dementia: A single-blind randomised controlled trial.

The purpose of this assessor-blinded, randomised controlled trial was to determine the effect of computerised cognitive training (CT) on executive function, processing speed and working memory in 61 people with mild-to-moderate dementia. The primary outcomes were forward Digit Span and Trail Making Tests (TMT) at the completion of the 6-month intervention. Secondary outcomes included cognitive and physical performance, rate of falls, participant and caregiver's quality of life and usability and adherence to the CT program. The study was registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12617000364370). Intervention group (n = 31) participants averaged 81 min of CT per week, and system usability scores were acceptable (participants: 68.8 ± 22.1; caregivers: 79.4 ± 23.5). There were no statistically significant differences in cognitive or physical performance outcomes between the intervention and control groups at 6- or 12-months (between-group differences [95% CI] for primary outcomes at 6-months: Forward Digit Span -0.3 [-0.8, 0.3]; TMT-A 2.7 s [-14.1, 19.5]; TMT-B -17.1 s [-79.3, 45.2]). At the 12-month follow-up reassessment, the intervention group reported significantly more depressive symptoms and had lower caregiver-rated participant quality of life and higher caregiver quality of life compared to control. This study showed no benefit of the CT program on working memory, processing speed and executive function. Future studies are required to better understand how CT can be used to improve cognitive and physical functioning in older people with mild-moderate dementia.

Exploring the associations between physical activity level, cognitive performance, and response to computerized cognitive training among chronic stroke patients

AbstractBackgroundPost‐stroke attentional and working memory deficits are common and represent relevant predictors of long‐term functional recovery and outcome. The individual responses to cognitive rehabilitation and interventions vary between patients and are influenced by multiple factors. Recently, a link between the level of engagement in physical activities and cognitive rehabilitation has been suggested. However, few previous studies have tested the predictive value of physical activity on cognitive performance and response to cognitive training among chronic stroke patients. There is also a lack of knowledge concerning the prognostic value of index stroke characteristics on physical activity in chronic phase.MethodIn this cross‐sectional and longitudinal study, including stroke survivors suffering mild‐to‐moderate strokes (n = 52, mean age = 70 years), we used Bayesian regression to test the association between cognitive performance and response to a 3‐week intervention with a commonly used computerized cognitive training (CCT) system and baseline physical activity level measured with International Physical Activity Questionnaire. We also tested the association between physical activity level in chronic phase and stroke characteristics, including stroke severity (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale), ischemic stroke etiology (Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment), and stroke location (n = 66, mean age = 68 years). For descriptive purposes, we included 104 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy controls (mean age = 69 years).ResultsThe analyses revealed anecdotal evidence of a positive association between overall cognitive performance and daily minutes of sedentary behavior, indicating that better cognitive performance was associated with more daily hours of sitting still. We found no support for an association between cognitive performance and response to CCT with activity level. In addition, the analysis showed group differences in sedentary behavior between patients with small‐vessel disease (n = 20) and cardioembolism (n = 7), indicating more sedentary behavior in patients with small‐vessel disease. There was no further support for a predictive value of index stroke characteristics on physical activity level.ConclusionThe results do not support that baseline physical activity level is a relevant predictor of the overall performance or response to CCT in this sample of chronic stroke patients. Similarly, the analyses revealed little evidence for an association between index stroke characteristics and future activity level in patients surviving mild‐to‐moderate stroke.

Digital computerised cognitive training for preventing cognitive decline among hypertensive patients: a study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial (DELIGHT trial)

IntroductionMild cognitive impairment (MCI) is an important intervenable stage for the prevention of dementia. Hypertension is associated with impaired cognition, and when combined with MCI, it may lead to a...

Does Including Facebook Training Improve the Effectiveness of Computerized Cognitive Training? A Randomized Controlled Trial.

To determine whether implementing a Facebook training program improves the effectiveness of computerized cognitive training (CCT) in older adults. Randomized, controlled, double single-blind trial with parallel groups. Community centers. Eighty-six adults between 60 and 90 years old. Nine face-to-face 60-min sessions of CCT with VIRTRAEL for all participants. The experimental group received an additional 30 min of Facebook training per session. Attention (d2 Test of Attention); learning and verbal memory (Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised); working memory (Letter-Number Sequencing test), semantic and abstract reasoning (Similarities and Matrix Reasoning tests); and planning (Key Search test). There was a significant Group*Time interaction in the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised-Trial 3, Letter-Number sequencing, and Matrix tests. Between groups, post-hoc analyses showed a difference in Matrix reasoning (p < .001; d = 0.893) at post-intervention in favor of the experimental group. Significant main effects of time were found in the CCT group between baseline and 3-month follow-up for Concentration (F = 26.431, p ≤ .001), Letters and Numbers (F = 30.549, p ≤ .001), Learning (F = 38.678, p ≤ .001), Similarities (F = 69.885, p ≤ .001), Matrix (F = 90.342, p ≤ .001), and Key Search (F = 7.904, p = .006) tests. The utilization of CCT with VIRTRAEL, a freely accessible tool with broad applicability, resulted in enhanced attention, verbal learning, working memory, abstract and semantic reasoning, and planning among older adults. These improvements were sustained for at least three months post-training. Additional training in Facebook did not enhance the effectiveness of CCT.

Supporting Learning Differences: Effects of Cognitive Training on Cognitive Abilities in a School-Based Sample

A growing body of research demonstrates the effectiveness of computerized cognitive training (CCT) in building specific abilities (e.g., working memory) among school-age children. As a result, CCT is increasingly cited as a means to enhance and support students’ academic performance and school experience. However, many studies exploring CCT as an intervention have done so outside of the school setting, limiting its potential impact with regard to students who may benefit from it but cannot access such supports. This project examined the efficacy of a CCT program implemented within the academic day for all students attending a private school. The findings showed that two CCT programs resulted in improvements in working memory, cognitive flexibility, and/or processing speed among third graders through sixth graders (N = 95). Furthermore, this project demonstrates a model for the effective integration of CCT into a school day without interrupting the academic curriculum. The present results have important implications for the current ideological shift in education that focuses on how to more broadly address students’ learning differences.