The Effect of Computerized Cognitive Training on Neuropsychological Measures of Cognitive Function in the Elderly
Trial Snapshot
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Withdrawn
- Sponsor
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- Computerized cognitive assessment using the Mindstreams battery
Study Overview
Brief Summary
Background:
The aging of the population has lead to a significant increase in the number of older people suffering from cognitive impairment and dementia. The present lack of effective drug therapy for these conditions makes it imperative to investigate other potential therapeutic interventions.
Cognitive training has been described as possibly useful in improving cognitive function in elderly subjects with mild impairment and early dementia. However, there have been few well-designed studies to date and the results are equivocal. Most studies have relied on the use of paper-based neuropsychological assessment instruments with limited accuracy and reproducibility. The investigators have developed a validated computerized neuropsychological assessment battery with increased test-retest reliability.
The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of a computerized training program on cognitive function in older persons with normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment, and early dementia.
Description:
A randomized prospective AB/BA crossover study.
Methods:
Eligible males and females aged 60 years and older following initial computerized neuropsychological assessment will be randomized to receive either a 12-session computerized cognitive training program, or no treatment. Repeat neuropsychological assessment will be followed by a 4-week no treatment phase, reassessment and crossover phase.
Detailed Description
Background
In recent years there has been an increase in the elderly population. This fact has led to a significant number of people suffering from diseases which are associated with old age, amongst which is dementia.
The medical treatment of dementia is limited in its effectiveness and thus it is important to investigate other methods of therapy. One of the possible options to preserve the cognitive function is to apply cognitive exercise. If these exercises can improve cognitive expertise, it would open new vistas of treatment for dementia patients.
From a few research projects that have taken place on the subject, it has not been proved that cognitive exercising has been of use to patients suffering from mild dementia mainly because of methodological restraints. Thus it is necessary to undertake controlled random research on the subject.
The assessment of the cognitive state and the change in its status demands sensitive measurements. Objective and accurate computerized neuro-physiological testing like "Mindstream ®" and computer hardware are readably available. This technique enhances motivation and encourages participation.
Study Design
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- Randomized
- Intervention Model
- Crossover
- Primary Purpose
- Treatment
- Masking
- None
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 60 Years to — (Adult, Older Adult)
- Sex
- All
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria
- •Age: above 60 years old
Exclusion Criteria
- •Visual impairment
- •Educational inability to perform training
Arms & Interventions
Savyon
Computerized cognitive training using the Savyon software
Intervention: Savyon (Behavioral)
Control
Usual activity
Intervention: Control (Behavioral)
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Computerized cognitive assessment using the Mindstreams battery
Time Frame: 12 weeks
Changes in cognitive function including memory, executive function, visual spatial and attention.
Secondary Outcomes
No secondary outcomes reported
Investigators
Tzvi Dwolatzky
Principal Investigator
Beersheva Mental Health Center