BACKGROUND
Previous studies have demonstrated that the combination of computerized cognitive training (CCT) and aerobic exercise produces more significant therapeutic effects on cognitive function compared to either intervention alone. However, its impact on specific cognitive domains remains unclear.
OBJECTIVE
This study was aim to investigate the rehabilitative effects of computerized cognitive training combined with aerobic exercise on cognitive domains in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) using objective indicators.
METHODS
This randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary hospital in northern China, recruiting 134 participants with PSCI who were randomly assigned to either the control group (n=67) or the intervention group (n=67) using an opaque envelope method. Both groups received 30-minute interventions five times a week. Changes in cognitive domains, global cognitive function, activities of daily living, stroke severity, and quality of life (QOL) were compared prior to the intervention, at 3 months, and at 6 months post-intervention.
RESULTS
Of the 109 participants who completed the full intervention and follow-up, analysis of the 5 cognitive function variables revealed a significant group × time interaction for all variables except visuospatial ability, favoring the intervention group (global cognitive function [Wald c2=26.437, P<0.001], memory [Wald c2=67.781, P<0.001], attention [Wald c2=12.174, P=0.002], execution [Wald c2=136.341, P<0.001], visuospatial ability [Wald c2=3.755, P=0.153]). Additionally, both activities of daily living and QOL also showed significant group × time interactions, favoring the intervention group.
CONCLUSIONS
The combination of CCT and aerobic exercise effectively enhanced the cognitive function of patients with PSCI, particularly in the areas of memory, attention, and execution. Moreover, it improved activities of daily living and QOL.
CLINICALTRIAL
Clinical trial registration: ChiCTR2300076646.