Objectives
Research indicates an association between stimulating mental activities and better
memory performance as people age, but studies on computerized mental stimulation programs
are limited. We explored whether computerized brain training exercises improved cognitive
performance in older adults.
Methods
In local retirement communities, a convenience sample was randomized into an intervention
group (N = 36), who used a computer program 5 days a week for 20–25 minutes each day,
or a wait-list control group (N = 33). All were older adults without dementia (mean
age: 81.8 years; SD: 6.1; 67% female). Neuropsychological testing was completed at
baseline (Time 1), 2 months (Time 2), and 6 months (Time 3). Three cognitive domains
(Immediate Memory, Delayed Memory, Language) were compared in the two groups as a
function of time using mixed models.
Results
The intervention group used the computerized program (Brain Fitness, Dakim Inc., Santa
Monica, CA) for an average of 43 (SD: 4.4) sessions by Time 2 and 81 (SD: 37.5) sessions
by Time 3. Mixed models examining cognitive domains as function of time revealed significant
group differences in Delayed Memory (F(2,72) = 4.7, p = 0.01) but not Immediate Memory
and Language; no significant improvements were noted for the control group. Among
all participants, anyone playing at least 40 sessions over the 6 months improved in
all three domains (Immediate Memory, Delayed Memory, and Language).
Conclusion
Participating in a computerized brain exercise program over 6 months improves cognitive
abilities in older adults. These results extend literature indicating the benefit
of training exercises, whether in a classroom format or via a computerized self-paced
program.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: February 04, 2013
Accepted:
January 28,
2013
Received in revised form:
January 24,
2013
Received:
August 27,
2012
Identification
Copyright
© 2013 American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
