Effects of computerized cognitive training on cognitive function, activity, and participation in individuals with stroke: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Computerized cognitive training (CCT) is an emerging alternative intervention for stroke survivors. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effects of CCT on the cognition, activity, and participation of stroke survivors and compared the findings with those of match-dosed conventional cognitive training. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial included 39 patients with stroke who were divided into the intervention group (n = 19; receiving CCT with Lumosity software) and the control group (n = 20; receiving conventional cognitive training). Both the groups were trained for 20 min, twice a week, for 12 weeks. Participants were evaluated at pretest, posttest, and 4-week follow-up. Outcome measures included various cognitive function tests and the Stroke Impact Scale scores. RESULTS: The CCT group exhibited significant improvement in global cognitive function (evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment) and specific cognitive domains: verbal working memory (backward digit span test), processing speed (Symbol Digit Modalities Test), and three MoCA subtests (attention, naming, and delayed recall). CCT exerted no significant effect on activities and participation. No significant between-group differences in changes in cognitive function were noted. However, CCT significantly improved cognitive function domains immediately after training, and these effects were sustained at the 4-week follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Cognitive function of individuals with chronic stroke could improve after administration of CCT. However, future studies with a more rigorous design and higher training dose are warranted to validate our findings.