Improvement in distinct cognitive functions between tablet PC and workbook in the SUPERBRAIN study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: We aimed to compare the effect in cognition according to the type of cognitive training in the SUPERBRAIN study, a 24-week multi-domain lifestyle intervention program to prevent dementia. METHOD: Both cognitive training programs, targeting five or six cognitive domains, were conducted in a group session or individually at home. The primary outcome was the change in the total scale of index score of the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) after 6 months of training. Analysis of covariance was used to compare the index score of the RBANS between the three groups. RESULT: There were significant improvements in the total scale index score (adjusted mean of change of the score, standard error; 6.2, 1.3; controls, -1.3, 1.6; p <0.001), attention (2.0, 1.3; controls, -2.0, 1.7; p=0.020), and delayed memory (9.9, 1.3; controls, 4.9. 1.8; p=0.014) in the tablet PC group compared to control group. The degree of improvement in immediate memory (6.4, 1.5; p=0.029) was larger in tablet PC group compared to the workbook group (0.1, 2.1). Improvement in visuoconstruction (1.2, 2.5; controls, -9.4, 2.3; p=0.002) was shown in the workbook group compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: The degree of improvement in total scale index score of the RBANS, immediate and delayed memory, and attention was more pronounced in the tablet PC group compared to the control group or workbook group. The workbook group displayed a larger degree of improvement in visuoconstruction compared to the control group. These findings implicate that cognition can be improved through cognitive training programs in at-risk population and cognitive training programs using tablet PC or workbook seem to show improvement in different cognitive functions. © 2021 the Alzheimer's Association.