Efficacy of a computer-based cognitive training program in older people with subjective memory complaints: a randomized study

ABSTRACT

Objective: the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of computer-assisted cognitive training in healthy older adults with subjective memory complaints.

Methods: Forty older adults, mean age (standard deviation) = 66.4 (5.6) with subjective memory complaints, were included in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to an integrated psychostimulation program (IPP) (N = 17), a computerized cognitive training (CCT) (N = 12) or a control group (N = 11). The training was applied for 8 weeks (90 min/d, 4 d/week for IPP, and 60 min/d, 4 d/week for CCT). Effectiveness was evaluated with a neuropsychological assessment battery, used before and after the implementation of the cognitive training.

Results: According to the data analysis, with analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), we found a statistically significant change in the majority of the cognitive variables measured before and after the experimental conditions compared with the control group. Although, according to a paired t-test, the IPP was more effective in the improvement of cognitive functioning in the participants. Additionally, a decrease in anxiety symptoms was observed after the cognitive intervention in IPP and CCT conditions.

Conclusion: Our findings suggested that cognitive training of moderate intensity, supported by a web platform, could lead to significant improvements in cognitive and psychological well-being in older people with subjective memory complaints.

KEYWORDS:

• Memory
• psychology of aging
• successful aging
• computerized cognitive training

Acknowledgments

We are deeply grateful with older adults who voluntarily participated in the study. Moreover, we also like to extend special thanks to Katherine Grimaldo Lizarazo, Gerardo Aristizabal Aristizabal and Andrea Puentes for participating in data collection.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

A. J. Pereira-Morales was supported by a fellowship from Departamento Administrativo de Ciencia, Tecnología e innovación (COLCIENCIAS) and Institute of Neurosciences of the Universidad El Bosque (Young Scientists Program) [contract number 701775-2014].