Web-Based Cognitive Training: Patient Adherence and Intensity of Treatment in an Outpatient Memory Clinic

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2014

Authors

Cruz, VT (Author) Other; Pais, J (Author) Other; Alves, I (Author) Other; Ruano, L (Author) Other; Mateus, C (Author) Other; Barreto, R (Author) Other; Bento, V (Author) Other; Colunas, M (Author) Other; Rocha, N (Author) Other; Coutinho, P (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Journal of Medical Internet Research

Vol. 16

Pages: 130-140

ISSN: 1438-8871

Publisher: JMIR Publications

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 19 Citations

Scopus - 26 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-009-HNS

DOI: 10.2196/jmir.3377

Abstract (EN): Background: Cognitive training has been playing an increasing role in the treatment of patients with cognitive deficits. This type of intervention, namely its intensity, can be optimized by incorporating information technology-based systems. Objective: The intent of the study was to determine the treatment intensity and patient adherence to home-based cognitive training strategies (Web-based cognitive training). Methods: A cohort of 45 patients with neurologic and psychiatric diseases attending an outpatient memory clinic (average age 50.7 years, SD 17.0; average education 7.8 years, SD 4.9) was followed over 18 months. Participants were challenged to use a Web-based cognitive training system, "COGWEB", on a daily basis, and fulfilled at least four weeks of training supervised remotely. Additionally, 11 patients attended face-to-face sessions. Results: The average duration of continuous cognitive training was 18.8 weeks (SD 18.9). Each patient performed on average 363.5 minutes/week (SD 136.6). At 6-month follow-up, 82.8% complied with their treatment plan. The average proportion of complete weeks was 0.75 (SD 0.22). Patients with dementia trained more intensively (444.6 minutes/week), followed by patients with static brain lesion (414.5 minutes/week; P=.01). The group that held face-to-face sessions performed more training overall (481.4 vs 366.9 minutes/week), achieving a stronger expression and statistical significance in the last week of training (652.6 versus 354.9 minutes/week, P=.027). Conclusions: Overall, the weekly training intensity was high. Patients with dementia and static lesions performed more cognitive training. Face-to-face sessions were associated with higher intensities. The combination of classical methods with information technology systems seems to ensure greater training intensity.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 11