Feasibility and effectiveness of computerised cognitive training for memory dysfunction following stroke: A series of single case studies

ABSTRACT

Computerised cognitive training (CCT) approaches to memory rehabilitation represent an attractive alternative to traditional approaches; however, there is limited empirical evidence to support their use. An AB with follow up single case design was repeated across five participants to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of CCT on subjective memory in patients with stroke. Target behaviour was subjective everyday and prospective memory failures which were assessed weekly. Following baseline (three weeks), participants completed six weeks of Lumosity^TM training in their homes. Data were analysed visually and statistically. The frequency of prospective memory failures decreased during intervention for one participant, while the frequency of prospective and everyday memory failures decreased significantly during the follow up period for another participant. Yet, significantly more everyday and prospective memory failures were reported following training by one study participant. No significant change in subjective memory ratings was found for remaining participants. Regarding secondary outcomes, meaningful changes on objective measures of memory were not observed, despite considerable inter-individual variability. Three participants reported improvement in individualised memory goals, while two participants described a decline. Overall, Lumosity^TM training appears feasible; however, no consistent evidence to support effectiveness of this CCT on subjective or objective memory was found.

KEYWORDS:

• Computerised cognitive training
• memory rehabilitation
• single case design
• stroke

Disclosure statement

Lumosity training was provided free of charge to researchers by Lumos Labs. However, all aspects of design, conduct and reporting were conducted independently by researchers.

ORCID

Toni D. Withiel http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8075-2760

Dana Wong http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9619-1929

Jennie L. Ponsford http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0430-125X

Dominique A. Cadilhac http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8162-682X

Renerus J. Stolwyk http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4975-3332