Evaluation of a computer-based cognitive training program for early-stage Alzheimer's disease

Aim: Previous studies have reported that computer-based cognitive training (CBCT) programs improve many cognitive functions, especially memory, attention, and executive functions in early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. In addition, these programs have been shown to improve patients' mood and quality of life. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of a CBCT program on cognitive functions, behavioral symptoms, and quality of life in early-stage AD patients. Material and Methods: Twenty-nine patients with a diagnosis of probable AD were included in the study. Patients and their caregivers were examined neuropsychologically before and after (after 12 weeks) the CBCT program. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), forward and backward digit span. clock drawing test (CDT), verbal fluency tests, and Trail Making Test A and B forms were used for cognitive assessment, and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was used for depression screening. In addition, patients and their caregivers were evaluated with the Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease Scale, the Caregiver Burden Scale, the Caregiver Stress Scale, and the Reactions to Helping Your Family Member Scale. Results: Forward and backward digit span tests at the end of the program were significantly better than those before the program (4.81 +/- 0.75, p=0.01 /10.72 +/- 5.64, p=0.01, respectively). In addition, it was observed that the trail-making test form B was completed faster at the end of the program (308 +/- 166.66 s, 200 +/- 111.73 s; p=0.02). The reaction times of the patients at the end of the program were significantly shorter than those before (p=0.01). Discussion: The results indicate that the 12-week CBCT program provides an improvement in simple and sustained attention, delayed recall, executive functions, and information processing speed in early-stage Alzheimer patients. Large-scale randomized controlled studies are needed to more dearly demonstrate the effects of such programs on cognitive and behavioral symptoms, quality of life, and caregiver burden of AD.