The Cognitive Enhancement research studies aim to understand the efficacy of cognitive training, also called speed training, to preserve cognitive and daily function in older adults.
A 2010 study estimated that 34.4 million people have dementia worldwide with estimated formal and informal care costs of U$422 billion. Interventions that postpone dementia onset by even two years would cut projected dementia prevalence in 2047 by 22%. Edwards et al (2017) hypothesised that exposure to cognitive training would lower the risk of dementia and that the benefit would be greatest for those attending more training sessions.
WARRI is actively seeking to undertake an Australian pilot in collaboration with US studies. This research proposes to include participants 65 years or older from Independent living retirement villages around Metropolitan Adelaide. Written informed consent will be obtained.
Initially, individual baseline measures include training on the computer measures used throughout the US program and additional measures on memory (Hopkins, Auditory verbal learning test; Rivermead behavioural memory test), reasoning (word-series, letter series, letter sets), speed of processing (useful field of view , tasks 2-4), everyday problem solving (everyday problems test, observed tasks of daily living), everyday speed (complex reaction time and timed instrumental activities of daily living) and activities of daily living functioning (minimum data set -home care).
The proposed testing will be provided in small-group settings in ten, 60 to 75-minute sessions. Post-testing occurs immediately after the completion of the 10 training sessions, and then every 6 months thereafter. Post testing includes the same tests as at baseline and post-program. The proposed cognitive intervention has a number of key elements including:
– focusing on strategies for solving problems, remembering, or responding quickly to information
– modelling and demonstrating of strategy usage by trainers
– practicing on exemplar problems
– individual and group exercises
– feedback on performance
– fostering of self-efficacy with regard to performance
– applying strategies to real-world tasks
– individualized training experiences
– activities focusing on social interaction.
As studies in the Journal of the American Medical Association and others have shown, the speed training technology improves cognitive function, enhances driving safety, makes it easier to keep up with the busy demands of a modern life, reduces the chance of depression, and even helps people retain independence.
Edwards, J. D., Xu, H., Clark, D. O., Guey, L. T., Ross, L. A., Unverzagt, F. W. (2017). Speed of processing training results in lower risk of dementia. Alzheimer’s; Dementia: Translational Research; Clinical Interventions, 3(4), 603–611. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.trci.2017.09.002