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

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.