The Effect of Attention Training and Memory Training Programs for Elders With Mild Cognitive Impairment

Purpose:

Declining cognitive ability is a major risk for disability. The potential benefits of interventions during earlier stages of disease have led to an increased interest in improving impaired cognitive function that does not fit yet the criteria for dementia. Thus, the purpose of this study was to construct attention cognitive training protocol and memory training protocol for elders with mild cognitive impairment (MCI); and investigate the effects of both cognitive training programs on cognition and engagement for elders with mild cognitive impairment.

Methods:

One hundred fifty-five subjects were recruited for this study. Subjects were matched based on their functional status and cognitive status. Then, 33 subjects were randomly assigned into the attention training group,35 subjects were assigned into the memory training group, and 87 subjects were assigned in the control group. The attention training group was received integrated orientation, selection and executive cognitive training, while memory training group was received face-name working memory and procedural memory training. Control group maintained their routine activities in long-term care facilities. All treatment modules were standardized to consist of 18 sessions lasting 60 minutes and completed over a 6-week period (three sessions a week). MMSE and Clock Draw Test were used in the pre- and post-test. Engagement and Enjoyment scale were used from the first to sixth week during a six-week intervention.

Results:

The MMSE scores were significantly higher in the attention training and the memory training groups compared with the control group in the pre-test and post-test assessments. Clock draw test was significant higher in the memory training group compared with the control group in the pre-test and post-test assessment. The engagement was significantly higher from the second week to sixth week in the attention training group, whereas enjoyment was significantly higher in the attention training group in the first week and the sixth week. The enjoyment score at the fifth week at memory training group was significant higher than that at pre-test.

Conclusion:

It is recommended apply attention training and memory training in adult day care center and adult apartment to remain cognitive ability of elders with MCI. For future study, a longitudinal study to investigate the long-term effects of both training programs is recommended.