Efficacy of a computer-based cognitive training program in older people with subjective memory complaints: a randomized study

<b>Objective:</b> the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of computer-assisted cognitive training in healthy older adults with subjective memory complaints. <b>Methods:</b> Forty older adults, mean age (standard deviation) = 66.4 (5.6) with subjective memory complaints, were included in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to an integrated psychostimulation program (IPP) (<i>N</i> = 17), a computerized cognitive training (CCT) (<i>N</i> = 12) or a control group (<i>N</i> = 11). The training was applied for 8 weeks (90 min/d, 4 d/week for IPP, and 60 min/d, 4 d/week for CCT). Effectiveness was evaluated with a neuropsychological assessment battery, used before and after the implementation of the cognitive training. <b>Results:</b> According to the data analysis, with analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), we found a statistically significant change in the majority of the cognitive variables measured before and after the experimental conditions compared with the control group. Although, according to a paired <i>t</i>-test, the IPP was more effective in the improvement of cognitive functioning in the participants. Additionally, a decrease in anxiety symptoms was observed after the cognitive intervention in IPP and CCT conditions. <b>Conclusion:</b> Our findings suggested that cognitive training of moderate intensity, supported by a web platform, could lead to significant improvements in cognitive and psychological well-being in older people with subjective memory complaints.

**研究目标：** 本研究旨在探究计算机辅助认知训练对伴有主观记忆主诉的健康老年人的干预效果。**研究方法：** 本研究共纳入40名伴有主观记忆主诉的老年人，其平均年龄（标准差）为66.4±5.6岁。受试者被随机分为三组：整合式心理刺激项目（Integrated Psychostimulation Program, IPP，*N*=17）、计算机化认知训练（Computerized Cognitive Training, CCT，*N*=12）以及对照组（*N*=11）。两组训练均持续8周：IPP组为每日90分钟、每周4天，CCT组为每日60分钟、每周4天。分别于认知干预前后采用成套神经心理测评工具对干预有效性进行评估。**研究结果：** 经协方差分析（Analysis of Covariance, ANCOVA）对数据进行分析后发现，相较于对照组，各实验组在多数认知变量上的前后测差异均具有统计学意义。不过，经配对t检验（paired t-test）进一步分析可见，IPP组在改善受试者认知功能方面的效果更为显著。此外，IPP组与CCT组的受试者在认知干预后，其焦虑症状均有所减轻。**研究结论：** 本研究结果表明，依托网络平台开展的中等强度认知训练，可显著改善伴有主观记忆主诉老年人的认知功能与心理健康状态。