Principal Investigators

    DUFF, KEVIN M

    Institution

    UNIVERSITY OF UTAH

    Contact information of lead PI

    Country

    USA

    Title of project or programme

    Cognitive training and practice effects in MCI

    Source of funding information

    NIH (NIA)

    Total sum awarded (Euro)

    € 2,045,322.02

    Start date of award

    15/05/2014

    Total duration of award in years

    3

    The project/programme is most relevant to:

    Alzheimer's disease & other dementias

    Keywords

    Acquired Cognitive Impairment... Aging... Alzheimer's Disease... Alzheimer's Disease including Alzheimer's Disease Related Dementias (AD/ADRD)... Behavioral and Social Science... Brain Disorders... Clinical Research... Clinical Research - Extramural... Clinical Trials and Supportive Activities... Dementia... Effectiveness Research... Neurodegenerative... Neurosciences... Prevention... Rehabilitation... Translational Research

    Research Abstract

    DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The overall aim of this submission is to examine if cognitive functioning in MCI can be improved with training exercises. These findings could further our understanding about the mechanisms of MCI, inform our attempts to intervene in this disease, and influence the design and methodology of future clinical trials. We propose a randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial using [230] older adults with MCI. Following pre-testing with a cognitive battery, participants will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group or an active control group. Those in the experimental group will complete 40 1-hour sessions of online, computerized exercises designed to improve processing speed and auditory memory (Brain Plasticity, Inc.). Those in the control group will complete 40 1-hour sessions of online, computerized activities that are not specifically designed to improve cognition (e.g., crossword puzzles). Post-testing will follow completion of training in both groups. We will also examine effects of the training program after 12 months. By achieving these aims, we expect to advance our understanding of the mechanisms and treatment of MCI, which will have effects for clinical care and research. For example, if these individuals do benefit from cognitive training, then this may reduce the disability associated with this disease. This project is consistent with the mission of the National Institute on Aging. Relevance. Minimizing the deleterious effects of MCI is critical for providing clinical care and advancing research with this disease. For example, if cognitive deficits can be minimized, then individuals may retain functional independence for longer periods of time. Similarly, awareness of factors that moderate the effects of intervention will allow us to target individuals for future clinical trials in MCI.

    Lay Summary

    PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Although cognitive decline seems to be part of “”normal”” aging, recent research suggests that processing speed and memory can be improved with training. Improvements in cognition may have beneficial effects on daily functioning in older adults. Results of the current proposal may provide information about the efficacy of this particular intervention, as well as variables that moderate treatment response. As such, these results may inform clinical practice and research for patients with MCI.

    Further information available at:

Types: Investments > €500k
Member States: United States of America
Diseases: Alzheimer's disease & other dementias
Years: 2016
Database Categories: N/A
Database Tags: N/A

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