Speed of processing training protects self-rated health in older adults: enduring effects observed in the multi-site ACTIVE randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: We evaluated the effects of cognitive training on self-rated health at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years post-baseline.

Methods: In the ACTIVE (Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly) randomized controlled trial, 2,802 older adults (>or=65 years) were randomly assigned to memory, reasoning, speed of processing, or no-contact control intervention groups. Complete data were available for 1,804 (64%) of the 2,802 participants at five years. A propensity score model was adjusted for attrition bias. The self-rated health question was coded using the Diehr et al. (2001) transformation (E = 95/VG = 90/G = 80/F = 30/P = 15), and analyzed with change-score regression models.

Results: The speed of processing (vs. no-contact control) group had statistically significant improvements (or protective effects) on changes in self-rated health at the 2, 3 and 5 year follow-ups. The 5-year improvement was 2.8 points (p = 0.03). No significant differences were observed in the memory or reasoning groups at any time.

Conclusion: The speed of processing intervention significantly protected self-rated health in ACTIVE, with the average benefit equivalent to half the difference between excellent vs. very good health.

Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest Declaration

The authors certify here that: (a) they have not entered into an agreement with the funding organizations that has limited their ability to complete the research as planned and publish the results; (b) they have had full control of all the primary data; and, (c) they are willing to allow the journal to review their data if requested.

Figures

Figure 1. Conceptual Model and Hypothesized Effects in the ACTIVE Model.*

Adapted from:Jobe, JB, et al. (2001). ACTIVE: a cognitive intervention trial to promote independence in older adults. Controlled Clinical Trials, 22, 453–479.

Figure 2. The ACTIVE Study Design

Adapted from:Jobe, JB, et al. (2001). ACTIVE: a cognitive intervention trial to promote independence in older adults. Controlled Clinical Trials, 22, 453–479.