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. 2009 Apr-Jun;3(2):124-131.
doi: 10.1590/S1980-57642009DN30200010.

Cognitive training in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: Impact on cognitive and functional performance

Paula Schimidt Brum  1 , Orestes Vicente Forlenza  2 , Mônica Sanches Yassuda  3
Affiliations

Cognitive training in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: Impact on cognitive and functional performance

Paula Schimidt Brum et al. Dement Neuropsychol. 2009 Apr-Jun.

Abstract
in English, Portuguese

Aging is associated with cognitive decline, yet this does not prevent older adults from finding ways to compensate for age-related deficits. Earlier studies have shown that cognitively unimpaired older adults can benefit from training programs. The efficacy of cognitive interventions among older adults without dementia but with cognitive decline (mild cognitive impairment, MCI) has not yet been widely tested.

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of 8-session cognitive training on the cognitive and functional performance of older adults with MCI.

Methods: 16 older adults diagnosed with MCI received cognitive training (18 participated as controls). All participants were assessed pre and post intervention using the Short Cognitive Test (SKT), Direct Assessment of Functional Scale Revised (DAFS-R), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and Clock Drawing Test (CDT).

Results: A significant improvement was observed in the study group between pre and post-test in attention (SKT), time orientation, shopping skills and dealing with finances (DAFS-R) along with reduced depressive symptoms (GDS).

Conclusion: These results indicate the importance of non-pharmacological interventions for older adults with MCI to help compensate for cognitive decline.

O envelhecimento está associado ao declínio de algumas funções cognitivas, entretanto, este fato não impede que a pessoa idosa encontre formas de compensar déficits. Estudos anteriores documentaram que a pessoa idosa sem declínio cognitivo pode beneficiar-se de programas de treino. A eficácia de intervenções cognitivas junto à população idosa sem demência mas com alterações cognitivas (comprometimento cognitivo leve, CCL) ainda não foi testada amplamente.

Objetivos: Avaliar o impacto de treino cognitivo de 8 sessões na funcionalidade e desempenho cognitivo em idosos com CCL.

Métodos: 16 idosos com CCL receberam treino cognitivo e 18 participaram como grupo controle; pacientes e controles foram avaliados antes e depois da intervenção com o Short Cognitive Test (SKT), Direct Assessment of Funcional Scale Revised (DAFS-R), Escala de Depressão Geriátrica (GDS) e o Teste do Desenho do Relógio (TDR).

Resultados: Foi observada melhora significante no grupo experimental do pré para o pós-teste no desempenho em atenção (SKT), orientação temporal, habilidade para fazer compras e lidar com dinheiro (DAFS-R) e diminuição nos sintomas depressivos (GDS).

Conclusões: Estes resultados destacam a importância da intervenção não-farmacológica em idosos com CCL para compensar déficits cognitivos.

Keywords: Mild Cognitive Impairment; aging; cognition; cognitive training; functionality.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure: The authors report no conflicts of interest.

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