Computerized cognitive training with older adults: a systematic review

Alexandra M Kueider, Jeanine M Parisi, Alden L Gross, George W Rebok, Alexandra M Kueider, Jeanine M Parisi, Alden L Gross, George W Rebok

Abstract

A systematic review to examine the efficacy of computer-based cognitive interventions for cognitively healthy older adults was conducted. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: average sample age of at least 55 years at time of training; participants did not have Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment; and the study measured cognitive outcomes as a result of training. Theoretical articles, review articles, and book chapters that did not include original data were excluded. We identified 151 studies published between 1984 and 2011, of which 38 met inclusion criteria and were further classified into three groups by the type of computerized program used: classic cognitive training tasks, neuropsychological software, and video games. Reported pre-post training effect sizes for intervention groups ranged from 0.06 to 6.32 for classic cognitive training interventions, 0.19 to 7.14 for neuropsychological software interventions, and 0.09 to 1.70 for video game interventions. Most studies reported older adults did not need to be technologically savvy in order to successfully complete or benefit from training. Overall, findings are comparable or better than those from reviews of more traditional, paper-and-pencil cognitive training approaches suggesting that computerized training is an effective, less labor intensive alternative.

Conflict of interest statement

Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Figure 1. Identification of studies in the…
Figure 1. Identification of studies in the systematic review.

References

    1. U.S. Census Bureau. Statistical abstract of the United States: 2011. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office. 2011.
    1. Brookmeyer R, Johnson E, Ziegler-Graham K, Arrighi HM. Forecasting the global burden of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimers Dement. 2007;3(3):186–191.
    1. Ball K, Berch DB, Helmer KF, Jobe JB, Leveck MD, et al. Effects of cognitive training interventions with older adults: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2002;288(18):2271–2271–2281.
    1. Mahncke HW, Connor BB, Appelman J, Ahsanuddin ON, Hardy JL, et al. Memory enhancement in healthy older adults using a brain plasticity-based training program: A randomized, controlled study. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. . 2006;103(33):12523–12528.
    1. Martin M, Clare L, Altgassen AM, Cameron MH, Zehnder F. Cognition-based interventions for healthy older people and people with mild cognitive impairment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011;(1)(1):CD006220.
    1. Smith GE, Housen P, Yaffe K, Ruff R, Kennison RF, et al. A cognitive training program based on principles of brain plasticity: Results from the Improvement in Memory with Plasticity-based Adaptive Cognitive Training (IMPACT) study. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2009;57(4):594–603.
    1. Willis SL, Tennstedt SL, Marsiske M, Ball K, Elias J, et al. Long-term effects of cognitive training on everyday functional outcomes in older adults. JAMA. 2006;296(23):2805–2814.
    1. Dunlosky J, Kubat-Silman A, Hertzog C. Training monitoring skills improves older adults’ self-paced associative learning. Psychol Aging. 2003;18(2):340–345.
    1. Wadley VG, Benz RL, Ball KK, Roenker DL, Edwards JD, et al. Development and evaluation of home-based speed-of-processing training for older adults. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2006;7(6):757–763.
    1. Rebok GW, Carlson MC, Langbaum JB. Training and maintaining memory abilities in healthy older adults: Traditional and novel approaches. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci: 62 Spec No. 2007;1:53–61.
    1. Fernandez A. Transforming brain health with digital tools to access, enhance, and treat cognition across the lifespan: The state of the brain fitness market. 2011. Available: . Accessed 2011 Jul 1.
    1. George DR, Whitehouse PJ. Marketplace of memory: What the brain fitness technology industry says about us and how we can do better. Gerontologist. 2011.
    1. Jamieson BA, Rogers WA. Age-related effects of blocked and random practice schedules on learning a new technology. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci. 2000;55B(6):P343.
    1. Ownby RL, Czaja SJ, Loewenstein D, Rubert M. Cognitive abilities that predict success in a computer-based training program. Gerontologist. 2008;48(2):170–180.
    1. Czaja SJ, Sharit J. Age differences in the performance of computer-based work. Psychol Aging. 1993;8(1):59–67.
    1. Hollis-Sawyer L, Sterns HL. A novel goal-oriented approach for training older adult computer novices: Beyond the effects of individual-difference factors. Educ Gerontol. 1999;25(7):661–684.
    1. Kramer AF, Larish JF, Strayer DL. Training for attentional control in dual task settings: A comparison of young and old adults. J. Exp. . Psychol: Applied. 1995;1(1):50–76.
    1. Thompson G, Foth D. Cognitive-training programs for older adults: What are they and can they enhance mental fitness? . Educ Gerontol. 2005;31(8):603–626.
    1. Barnes DE, Yaffe K, Belfor N, Jaqust WJ, DeCarli C, et al. Computer-based cognitive training for mild cognitive impairment: Results from a pilot randomized, controlled trial. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord. 2009;23(3):205–210.
    1. Weybright EH, Dattilo J, Rusch FR. Effects of an interactive video game (Nintendo Wii) on older women with mild cognitive impairment. Ther Recreation J. 2010;44(4):271–287.
    1. Shapira N, Barak A, Gal I. Promoting older adults’ well-being through internet training and use. Aging Ment Health. 2007;11(5):477–484.
    1. Sherer M. The impact of using personal computers on the lives of nursing home residents. Phys Occup Ther Geriatr. 1996;14(2):13–31.
    1. White H, McConnell E, Clipp E, Branch LG, Sloane R, et al. A randomized controlled trial of the psychosocial impact of providing internet training and access to older adults. Aging Ment Health. 2002;6(3):213–221.
    1. Vance D, Dawson J, Wadley V, Edwards JD, Roenker D, et al. The Accelerate Study: The longitudinal effect of speed of processing training on cognitive performance of older adults. Rehabil Psychol. 2007;52(1):89–96.
    1. Cassavaugh ND, Kramer AF. Transfer of computer-based training to simulated driving in older adults. Appl Ergon. 2009;40(5):943–952.
    1. Slegers K, van Boxtel MPJ, Jolles J. Slegers K, van Boxtel MPJ, editors. The effects of computer training and internet usage on cognitive abilities of older adults: A randomized controlled study. Maastricht, Netherlands: Neuropsychological Publishers. 2009. pp. 41–58. Successful cognitive aging: The use of computers and the internet to support autonomy later in life.
    1. Botwinick J, Brinley JF, Birren JE. Set in relation to age. J Gerontol. 1957;12:300–305.
    1. Kramer AF, Madden DJ. Craik FIM, Salthouse TA, Craik FIM, Salthouse TA, editors. Attention. New York, NY US: Psychology Press. 2008. pp. 189–249. The handbook of aging and cognition (3rd ed.).
    1. Bisson E, Contant B, Sveistrup H, Lajoie Y. Functional balance and dual-task reaction times in older adults are improved by virtual reality and biofeedback training. Cyberpsychol Behav. 2007;10(1):16–23.
    1. Lajoie Y. Effect of computerized feedback postural training on posture and attentional demands in older adults. Aging Clin Exp Res. 2004;16(5):363–368.
    1. Hinman MR. Comparison of two short-term balance training programs for community-dwelling older adults. J Geriatr Phys Ther. 2002;25(3):10–20.
    1. Edwards JD, Wadley VG, Meyers RS, Roenker DR, Cissell GM, et al. Transfer of a speed of processing intervention to near and far cognitive functions. Gerontology. 2002;48(5):329–340.
    1. Edwards JD, Wadley VG, Vance DE, Wood K, Roenker DL, et al. The impact of speed of processing training on cognitive and everyday performance. Aging Ment Health. 2005;9(3):262–271.
    1. Roenker DL, Cissell GM, Ball KK, Wadley VG, Edwards JD. Speed-of-processing and driving simulator training result in improved driving performance. J Hum Fact Ergon Soc. 2003;45:218–233.
    1. Baddeley AD, Hitch G. Bower GH, editor. Working memory. New York, NY: Academic Press. 1974. pp. 47–89. The psychology of learning and motivation: Advances in research theory.
    1. Finkel SI, Yesavage JA. Learning mnemonics: A preliminary evaluation of a computer-aided instruction package for the elderly. Exp Aging Res. 1989;15(3–4):199–201.
    1. Jennings JM, Webster LM, Kleykamp BA, Dagenback D. Recollection training and transfer effects in older adults: Successful use of a repetition-lag procedure. Aging Neuropsychol C. 2005;12(3):278–298.
    1. Lustig C, Flegal KE. Targeting latent function: Encouraging effective encoding for successful memory training and transfer. Psychol Aging. 2008;23(4):754–764.
    1. Buschkuehl M, Jaeggi SM, Hutchison S, Perrig-Chiello P, Dapp C, et al. Impact of working memory training on memory performance in old-old adults. Psychol Aging. 2008;23(4):743–753.
    1. Li S, Schmiedek F, Huxhold O, Rocke C, Smith J, et al. Working memory plasticity in old age: Practice gain, transfer, and maintenance. Psychol Aging. 2008;23(4):731–742.
    1. Bherer L, Kramer AF, Peterson MS, Colcombe S, Erikson K, et al. Training effects on dual-task performance: Are there age-related differences in plasticity of attentional control? Psychol Aging. 2005;20(4):695–709.
    1. Bherer L, Kramer AF, Peterson MS, Colcombe S, Erikson K, et al. Transfer effects in task-set cost and dual-task cost after dual-task training in older and younger adults: Further evidence for cognitive plasticity in attentional control in late adulthood. Exp Aging Res. 2008;34(3):188–219.
    1. Dahlin E, Neely AS, Larsson A, Backman L, Nyberg L. Transfer of learning after updating training mediated by the striatum. Science. 2008;320(5882):1510–1512.
    1. Mozolic JL, Long AB, Morgan AR, Rawley-Payne M, Laurienti PJ. A cognitive training intervention improves modality-specific attention in a randomized controlled trial of healthy older adults. Neurobiol Aging. 2011;32(4):655–668.
    1. Klusmann V, Evers A, Schwarzer R, Schlattmann P, Reischies FM. Complex mental and physical activity in older women and cognitive performance: A 6-month randomized controlled trial. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2010;65(6):680–688.
    1. Ralls RS. Age and computer training performance: A test of training enhancement through cognitive practice [dissertation]. College Park, MD: University of Maryland College Park. 1998.
    1. Rasmusson DX, Rebok GW, Bylsma FW, Brandt J. Effects of three types of memory training in normal elderly. Aging Neuropsychol C. 1999;6(1):56–66.
    1. Rebok GW, Rasmusson DX, Brandt J. Prospects for computerized memory training in normal elderly: Effects of practice on explicit and implicit memory tasks. Appl Cogn Psych. 1996;10(3):211–223.
    1. Blackford RC. Geriatric memory training: Computer versus group instruction [dissertation]. Pasadena, CA: Fuller Theological Seminary. 1990.
    1. Berry AS, Zanto TP, Clapp WC, Hardy JL, Delahunt PB, et al. The influence of perceptual training on working memory in older adults [electronic article]. PLoS ONE. 2010;5(7):1–8.
    1. Eckroth-Bucher M, Siberski J. Preserving cognition through an integrated cognitive stimulation and training program. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen. 2009;24(3):234–245.
    1. Bottiroli S, Cavallini E. Can computer familiarity regulate the benefits of computer-based memory training in normal aging? A study with an Italian sample of older adults. Neuropsychol Dev Cogn B Aging Neuropsychol Cogn. 2009;16(4):401–418.
    1. Peretz C, Korczyn AD, Shatil E, Aharonson V, Bimboim S, et al. Computer-based, personalized cognitive training versus classical computer games: A randomized double-blind prospective trial of cognitive stimulation. Neuroepidemiology. 2011;36(2):91–99.
    1. Belchior PDC. Cognitive training with video games to improve driving skills and driving safety among older adults [dissertation]. ProQuest Information & Learning. 2008.
    1. Clark JE, Lanphear AK, Riddick CC. The effects of videogame playing on the response selection processing of elderly adults. J Gerontol. 1987;42(1):82–85.
    1. Goldstein JH, Cajko L, Oosterbroek M, Michielsen M, van Houten O, et al. Video games and the elderly. Soc Behav Personal. 1997;25(4):345–352.
    1. Torres A. Cognitive effects of video games on older people. ICDVRAT. 2008;19:191–198.
    1. Green CS, Bavelier D. Action video game modifies visual selective attention. Nature. 2003;423(6939):534–537.
    1. Dustman RE, Emmerson RY, Steinhaus LA, Shearer DE, Dustman TJ. The effects of videogame playing on neuropsychological performance of elderly individuals. J Gerontol. 1992;47(3):P168–71.
    1. Basak C, Boot WR, Voss MW, Kramer AF. Can training in a real-time strategy video game attenuate cognitive decline in older adults? Psychol Aging. 2008;23(4):765–777.
    1. Drew B, Waters J. Video games: Utilization of a novel strategy to improve perceptual motor skills and cognitive functioning in the non-institutionalized elderly. Cogn Rehab. 1986;4(2):26–31.
    1. Ackerman PL, Kanfer R, Calderwood C. Use it or lose it? Wii brain exercise practice and reading for domain knowledge. Psychol Aging. 2010;25(4):753–766.
    1. Verhaeghen P, Marcoen A, Goossens L. Improving memory performance in the aged through mnemonic training: A meta-analytic study. Psychol Aging. 1992;7(2):242–251.
    1. Saczynski JS, Rebok GW, Whitfield KE, Plude DJ. Effectiveness of CD-ROM memory training as a function of within-session autonomy. Int J Cogn Technol. 2004;9(1):25–33.
    1. Lee B, Chen Y, Hewitt L. Age differences in constraints encountered by seniors in their use of computers and the internet. Comput Hum Behav. 2011;27(3):1231–1237.
    1. Schmiedek F, Bauer C, Lovden M, Brose A, Lindenberger U. Cognitive enrichment in old age: Web-based training programs. GeroPsych. 2010;23(2):59–67.
    1. Petersen RC, Smith GE, Waring SC, Ivnik RJ, Tangalos EG, et al. Mild cognitive impairment. Clinical characterization and outcome. Arch Neurol. 1999;56:303–308.
    1. Flicker C, Ferris SH, Reisberg B. Mild cognitive impairment in the elderly: Predictors of dementia. Neurology. 1991;41:1006–1009.
    1. Tierney MC, Szalai JP, Snow WG, Fisher RH, Chi H. A prospective study of the clinical utility of ApoE genotype in the prediction of outcome in patients with memory impairment. Neurology. 1996. 1996;46:149–154.
    1. Minoshima S, Giordani B, Berent S, Frey KA, Foster NL, et al. Metabolic reduction in the posterior cingulated cortexin in very early Alzheimer’s disease. Ann Neurol. 1997;42:85–94.
    1. Hart TA, Chaparro BS, Halcomb CG. Evaluating websites for older adults: Adherence to ‘senior-friendly’ guidelines and end-user performance. Behav Info Technol. 2008;27(3):191–199.
    1. Pew Internet and American Life Project. Changes in internet use by age, 2000–2010. 2010. Available: . Accessed 2011 Jul 24.
    1. Gamberini L, Alcaniz M, Barresi G, Fabregat M, Ibanez F, et al. Cognition, technology and games for the elderly: An introduction to ELDERGAMES project. PsychNology J. 2006;4(3):285–308.

Source: PubMed

Sponsors et collaborateurs

Les conditions médicales

Interventions en matière de drogue

3
S'abonner