Similarity among tasks is the key to show generalization of cognitive training effects in Alzheimer's disease: a case study

Abstract

Cognitive training can allow patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) to reinforce individual cognitive abilities. In the present case study, we investigated the generalizability of trained cognitive skills to novel tasks, and their stability over time. One AD patient underwent a structured cognitive training using the GEO (Geographical Exercise for cognitive Optimization) task, whereas eight AD patients underwent a control cognitive intervention. Participants' performances on the GEO task, on a similar untrained cognitive task, and on a different untrained cognitive task were recorded before and after the intervention, and at the follow-up. On both the trained and the similar untrained tasks patients' and controls' performance significantly differed from one another. Our preliminary evidence shows that a cognitive training could allow patients to improve and maintain their performance not only on the trained task, but also on a similar task.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; cognitive deficits; memory; neuropsychology; rehabilitation.