EEG-neurofeedback as a training method for cognitive and non-cognitive functions in early dementia: A case report

Abstract

Abstract. EEG-neurofeedback (NF) is used as a training method for altering brain and associated functional activity in healthy individuals and patients alike. Depending on the chosen NF protocol (aiming at enhancing alpha, beta etc. EEG frequency band activity), NF training effects may be rather specific, aiming at ameliorating cognitive or non-cognitive states. We present data of an elderly female patient with minor neurocognitive disorder (MND). As the core symptoms of MND are acquired cognitive impairments due to neurodegenerative processes, NF training effects should be most pronounced regarding disease-related non-cognitive symptoms (i. e., sleeping disturbances and depression). Neuropsychological testing was conducted prior and after termination of the NF training. Two NF protocols (sensorimotor rhythm / SMR and alpha asymmetry / AA) were offered successively, each consisting of 12 sessions with six training blocks. AA NF should reduce depressive symptomatology, while SMR NF should ameliorate sleeping behavior and possibly attention and memory. Overall, our patient with MND exhibited partly positive NF training effects regarding brain electrical activity (i. e., AA, but not SMR) and associated cognitive and non-cognitive functions (i. e., memory and sleep, but not attention or depression). Thus, even in elderly with MND NF training should be regarded as a complementary non-pharmacological treatment for frequently reported disease-related cognitive and behavioral-affective symptoms.