The effects of a cognitive training program on individuals with moderate to severe cognitive impairment: A program evaluation study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5055/ajrt.0292Keywords:
cognitive training, moderate cognitive impairment, severe cognitive impairment, program evaluation, feasibilityAbstract
Objective: This exploratory program evaluation investigated the effectiveness and feasibility of a cognitive training program for individuals aged 75-98 with moderate to severe cognitive impairment.
Design: A pre-/post-quasi-experimental design was implemented.
Setting: Participants were assessed before and after engagement in a cognitive training program implemented by trained activity staff at four older adult care facilities across the United States. Qualitative data on program feasibility were collected post-intervention from staff.
Participants: Assent was gained for 15 participants with confirmed moderate to severe cognitive impairment.
Interventions: All participants completed a 12-week program led by trained facilitators that consisted of activities targeting six cognitive domains, eg, attention and memory.
Main outcome measure: The Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status—Update was administered 1 week prior to and 1 week following the completion of the program. A qualitative questionnaire was completed at follow-up by program facilitators to measure program feasibility.
Results: Small to large effect sizes were observed in over half of the cognitive domains assessed. Qualitative data suggest program feasibility.
Conclusions: The results indicate the effectiveness and feasibility of this cognitive training program yet warrant further investigation into the benefits of the program through a randomized controlled trial.
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