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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2012 Oct;26(10):882-93.
doi: 10.1177/0269215511434997. Epub 2012 Feb 2.

A randomized controlled trial of a cognitive rehabilitation intervention for persons with multiple sclerosis

Alexa K Stuifbergen  1 , Heather Becker, Frank Perez, Janet Morison, Vicki Kullberg, Ana Todd
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

A randomized controlled trial of a cognitive rehabilitation intervention for persons with multiple sclerosis

Alexa K Stuifbergen et al. Clin Rehabil. 2012 Oct.

Abstract

Objective: To explore the feasibility and effects of a computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation intervention - Memory, Attention, and Problem Solving Skills for Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (MAPSS-MS) - for persons with multiple sclerosis on cognitive performance, memory strategy use, self-efficacy for control of symptoms and neuropsychological competence in activities of daily living (ADL).

Design: A randomized controlled single-blinded trial with treatment and wait list control groups.

Setting: Southwestern United States.

Subjects: Convenience sample of 61 persons (34 treatment, 27 wait list control) with multiple sclerosis (mean age 47.9 years, SD 8.8).

Intervention: The eight-week MAPSS-MS intervention program included two components: (a) eight weekly group sessions focused on building efficacy for use of cognitive compensatory strategies and (b) a computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation program with home-based training.

Outcome measures: A neuropsychological battery of performance tests comprising the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in Multiple Sclerosis (MACFIMS) and self-report instruments (use of memory strategies, self-efficacy for control of multiple sclerosis and neuropsychological competence in ADL) were completed at baseline, two months (after classes), and at five months.

Results: Both groups improved significantly (P < 0.05) over time on most measures in the MACFIMS battery as well as the measures of strategy use and neuropsychological competence in ADL. There was a significant group-by-time interaction for scores on the measures of verbal memory and the use of compensatory strategies.

Conclusions: The MAPSS-MS intervention was feasible and well-accepted by participants. Given the large relative increase in use of compensatory strategies by the intervention group, it holds promise for enhancing cognitive function in persons with multiple sclerosis.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing Interests - none declared

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Flow Chart of Intervention
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