Effects of a multifaceted treatment program for executive dysfunction after acquired brain injury on indications of executive functioning in daily life

Improved quality of life and psychological symptoms following mindfulness and cognitive rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis and their mediating role for cognition: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently gives rise to depressive and anxiety symptoms, but these are often undertreated. This study investigated the effect of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT) on psychological outcomes and quality of life (QoL), and whether they mediate treatment effects on MS-related cognitive problems.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial included MS patients with cognitive complaints (n = 99) and compared MBCT (n = 32) and CRT (n = 32) to enhanced treatment as usual (n = 35). Baseline, post-treatment and 6-months follow-up assessments included patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) and cognitive outcomes (self-reported and neuropsychological assessment). PROMS concerned psychological symptoms, well-being, QoL, and daily life function. Linear mixed models indicated intervention effects on PROMS and mediation effects of PROMS on cognitive outcomes.

RESULTS

MBCT positively affected depressive symptoms (Cohen's d (d) = -0.46), fatigue (d = -0.39), brooding (d = -0.34), mindfulness skills (d = 0.49), and mental QoL (d = -0.73) at post-treatment. Effects on mindfulness skills remained significant 6 months later (d = 0.42). CRT positively affected depressive symptoms (d = -0.46), mindfulness skills (d = 0.37), and mental QoL (d = -0.45) at post-treatment, but not at 6-month follow-up. No effects on anxiety, well-being, self-compassion, physical QoL, and daily life function were found. Treatment effects on self-reported, but not objective, cognition were mediated by psychological symptoms and mindfulness skills.

CONCLUSIONS

MBCT and CRT reduced a wide array of psychological symptoms and improved mental QoL. These improvements seemed to impact self-reported cognitive problems after both treatments, whereas objective cognitive improvements after MBCT seemed independent of improvement in psychological symptoms. Future studies should investigate long-term sustainability of these beneficial effects.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was prospectively registered in the Dutch Trial registry on 31 May 2017 (NL6285; https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NTR6459 ).

Smartphone app for lifestyle improvement improves brain health and boosts the vitality and cognitive function of healthy middle-aged adults

INTRODUCTION

The number of smartphone apps for brain training is increasing, and the number of people who are working on brain training is also increasing. However, researchers disagree about the effectiveness of brain training.

METHODS

Therefore, in this study, we conducted an intervention test with the participation of 70 healthy middle-aged men and women and measured the effect of smartphone apps on lifestyle improvement using brain healthcare quotient calculated from brain imaging data.

RESULTS

As a result, in the intervention group, significant improvements were seen in fractional anisotropy (FA) of the whole brain, corpus callosum, internal capsule, corona radiata, posterior thalamic radiation, external capsule, and superior longitudinal fasciculus. Additionally, in the intervention group, these FA increments correlated with improvements in cognitive function as measured by the trail-making test and vigor as measured by the Profile of Mood States 2nd Edition.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that improving lifestyle habits through smartphone apps can improve brain health and cognitive and emotional performance of healthy middle-aged adults. This is consistent with previous research that suggests that FA integrity in the limbic-thalamo-cortical pathway influences cognitive function and emotion regulation.

The Role of Neuropsychology in Traumatic Brain Injury: Comprehensive Literature Review

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major public health concern, often leading to significant behavioral and cognitive changes with subsequent impairment in daily functioning and personal interactions. The management of TBI involves a multidisciplinary approach. Neuropsychology has emerged as a critical discipline in assessing, diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating individuals with TBI. Successful management also requires careful consideration of the patient's cognitive status. Therefore, clinicians must have a comprehensive understanding of the overall clinical picture of the patient at the cognitive and physical level. The primary aim of this research is to explore the role of neuropsychology in TBI management and rehabilitation thoroughly while providing an updated review of the literature. Various neuropsychological assessment tools used to evaluate cognitive functioning in individuals with TBI will be discussed in addition to their validity, reliability, and usefulness in identifying cognitive deficits and developing individualized treatment plans. The findings in this article will have significant implications on the clinical practice of neuropsychology in TBI patients, highlighting the importance of neuropsychological assessment in optimizing the management of this population. The need for increased awareness of neuropsychology among health care professionals, especially in the acute hospital setting, is growing along with the increase in diagnosis of TBI and its complications. Adequate understanding of the complex interplay between cognitive, emotional, and behavioral factors in TBI can inform the development of new interventions and treatment strategies, making it equally as important for patients and their families.

Efficacy of Intervention of Participation and Executive Functions (I-PEX) for Adults Following Traumatic Brain Injury: A Preliminary Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Participation restrictions following traumatic brain injury are associated with executive function (EF) deficits (EFDs). The subacute recovery phase's specific characteristics (enhanced brain plasticity and impaired self-awareness) and contextual factors (inpatient setting) warrant adjusting cognitive rehabilitation protocols. The Intervention of Participation and Executive Functions (I-PEX) was designed to improve EFDs during subacute inpatient rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the I-PEX's preliminary efficacy to improve EFDs during the performance of complex daily activities and enhance self-awareness, cognitive self-efficacy, participation, and quality of life postdischarge.

METHODS

A pilot pre-, post-, and follow-up double-blind randomized controlled trial with 25 participants randomly allocated to the I-PEX (n = 13) or treatment-as-usual (n = 12) group. Cognitive assessments were administered pre- and postintervention, and quality of life and participation questionnaires 1-month postdischarge. Data analysis included repeated measures analysis of variance mixed design and independent t-tests, extracting effect sizes.

RESULTS

Significant group-by-time interaction effect with a medium effect size was found for the primary outcome measure; EFs manifested in complex daily activities, indicating a larger improvement for the experimental group. The group effect was not significant. The experimental group's mean delta score (pre-post improvement) was significantly higher (1.75 ± 2.89; t(23) = 2.52, P = .019), with a large effect size (d = 1.012, 95% confidence interval [0.166-1.840]). We found no significant group and interaction effects for EFs, self-awareness, and cognitive self-efficacy or no significant differences in participation or quality of life postdischarge.

CONCLUSIONS

Results provide initial evidence for the I-PEX efficacy in treating EFDs in the subacute phase and could help determine effect size for future studies.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER

ClinicalTrial.gov NCT04292925.

Guiding patients with traumatic brain injury through the instrumental activities of daily living with the RehaGoal App: a feasibility study

PURPOSE

Individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) often experience executive function impairments that impact activities of daily living. Assistive technologies can help overcome these disabilities and Goal Management Training (GMT) provides an effective therapeutic approach for treating such impairments. To capture the benefits of GMT with assistive technology we developed the RehaGoal App. In this study, we investigate whether combining a modified GMT (mGMT) with the RehaGoal App is feasible in terms of study design, and preliminary evaluation of the attainment of self-defined goals. We also examine if the app produces useful metrics data, tests its usability, and gauges its potential for improving goal attainment.

METHODS

We used a case study design to evaluate four individuals with impairments in executive functions after TBI. They underwent an 8-week mGMT and RehaGoal App intervention to achieve a self-defined goal. To investigate the intervention's feasibility, we collected Goal Attainment Scale (GAS) scores at two-time points, neuropsychological data at study start, System Usability Scale (SUS) scores at study end, and metrics data throughout the study period.

RESULTS

Participant retention and compliance rates were high. All participants improved on GAS. Metrics data was collected successfully and revealed different participant usage behaviours. Overall, the SUS scores of the participants indicated excellent app usability.

CONCLUSIONS

The intervention was feasible but the study design should be modified. Preliminary evaluation of GAS, SUS, and metrics data provided useful insights on user behaviour, app usability, and its role in achieving self-defined goals. The app received overall positive participant ratings.IMPLICATION FOR REHABILITATIONMetric data can be useful as it can give therapists additional opportunities to gain more information about the realization of intervention tasks between the therapy sessions allowing them to use this information to adjust therapy elements.RehaGoal App in combination with a modified GMT may be able to support participants with impairment in executive functions in completing the task of daily living.The study shows that the RehaGoal App is feasible in rehabilitation for a small sample size and that it may be scaled up in the future larger randomized controlled trial.

Long-term Course of Cognitive Functioning After Aneurysmal and Angiographically Negative Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Cognitive impairment is a common consequence of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), negatively affecting everyday functioning. This study is the first to investigate the long-term course of cognitive functioning after SAH and its associations with long-term well-being (ie, anxiety and depression), cognitive complaints, and return to work, separately for patients with aneurysmal SAH (aSAH) and angiographically negative SAH (anSAH) in a longitudinal design.

METHODS

Cognitive functioning was measured at 2 time points (T1: 3-6 months post-SAH; T2: 2-4 years post-SAH) in 58 patients with aSAH and 22 patients with anSAH with neuropsychological tests for (working) memory, psychomotor speed, and attention/executive functioning. Questionnaires were used to measure cognitive complaints and well-being at T1 and T2 and return to work at T2.

RESULTS

At T2, patients with aSAH only showed improvements in memory and on an executive functioning and psychomotor speed subtest, whereas in contrast, patients with anSAH had significantly poorer scores on tests for psychomotor speed. A significant amount of patients with aSAH and anSAH still reported cognitive complaints, anxiety, and depression in the chronic stage. Cognitive functioning was not significantly associated with cognitive complaints in both SAH groups. On the other hand, cognitive complaints were related to well-being at the long-term in both SAH groups. More cognitive complaints were also associated with more difficulties in return to work in patients with aSAH.

CONCLUSION

Patients with aSAH and anSAH have cognitive impairments at the subacute stage post-SAH, and these impairments persist into the chronic stage. Moreover, both SAH groups still reported decreased well-being in the chronic stage post-SAH, related to cognitive complaints but not to cognitive impairment. For clinical practice, an early neuropsychological assessment will already provide relevant information to estimate long-term cognitive impairment, but in addition, it is important to pay attention to psychological distress at the long-term.

Mood, Activity Participation, and Leisure Engagement Satisfaction (MAPLES): results from a randomised controlled pilot feasibility trial for low mood in acquired brain injury

BACKGROUND

Acquired brain injury (ABI) is linked to increased depression risk. Existing therapies for depression in ABI (e.g., cognitive behavioural therapy) have mixed efficacy. Behavioural activation (BA), an intervention that encourages engaging in positively reinforcing activities, shows promise. The primary aims were to assess feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of two 8-week BA groups.

METHODS

Adults (≥ 18 years) recruited from local ABI services, charities, and self-referral via social media were randomised to condition. The Activity Planning group (AP; "traditional" BA) trained participants to plan reinforcing activities over 8 weeks. The Activity Engagement group (AE; "experiential" BA) encouraged engagement in positive activities within session only. Both BA groups were compared to an 8-week Waitlist group (WL). The primary outcomes, feasibility and acceptability, were assessed via recruitment, retention, attendance, and qualitative feedback on groups. The secondary outcome, potential efficacy, was assessed via blinded assessments of self-reported activity levels, depression, and anxiety (at pre- and post-intervention and 1 month follow-up) and were compared across trial arms. Data were collected in-person and remotely due to COVID-19.

RESULTS

N = 60 participants were randomised to AP (randomised n = 22; total n = 29), AE (randomised n = 22; total n = 28), or re-randomised following WL (total n = 16). Whether in-person or remote, AP and AE were rated as similarly enjoyable and helpful. In exploring efficacy, 58.33% of AP members had clinically meaningful activity level improvements, relative to 50% AE and 38.5% WL. Both AP and AE groups had depression reductions relative to WL, but only AP participants demonstrated anxiety reductions relative to AE and WL. AP participants noted benefits of learning strategies to increase activities and learning from other group members. AE participants valued social discussion and choice in selecting in-session activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Both in-person and remote group BA were feasible and acceptable in ABI. Though both traditional and experiential BA may be effective, these may have different mechanisms.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03874650. Protocol version 2.3, May 26 2020.

Executive function improvement in response to meta-cognitive training in chronic mTBI / PTSD

Objective

We tested Goal Management Training (GMT), which has been recommended as an executive training protocol that may improve the deficits in the complex tasks inherent in life role participation experienced by those with chronic mild traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disease (mTBI/PTSD). We assessed, not only cognitive function, but also life role participation (quality of life).

Methods

We enrolled and treated 14 individuals and administered 10 GMT sessions in-person and provided the use of the Veterans Task Manager (VTM), a Smartphone App, which was designed to serve as a "practice-buddy" device to ensure translation of in-person learning to independent home and community practice of complex tasks. Pre-/post-treatment primary measure was the NIH Examiner, Unstructured Task. Secondary measures were as follows: Tower of London time to complete (cTOL), Community Reintegration of Service Members (CRIS) three subdomains [Extent of Participation; Limitations; Satisfaction of Life Role Participation (Satisfaction)]. We analyzed pre-post-treatment, t-test models to explore change, and generated descriptive statistics to inspect given individual patterns of change across measures.

Results

There was statistically significant improvement for the NIH EXAMINER Unstructured Task (p < .02; effect size = .67) and cTOL (p < .01; effect size = .52. There was a statistically significant improvement for two CRIS subdomains: Extent of Participation (p < .01; effect size = .75; Limitations (p < .05; effect size = .59). Individuals varied in their treatment response, across measures.

Conclusions and Clinical Significance

In Veterans with mTBI/PTSD in response to GMT and the VTM learning support buddy, there was significant improvement in executive cognition processes, sufficiently robust to produce significant improvement in community life role participation. The individual variations support need for precision neurorehabilitation. The positive results occurred in response to treatment advantages afforded by the content of the combined GMT and the employment of the VTM learning support buddy, with advantages including the following: manualized content of the GMT; incremental complex task difficulty; GMT structure and flexibility to incorporate individualized functional goals; and the VTM capability of ensuring translation of in-person instruction to home and community practice, solidifying newly learned executive cognitive processes. Study results support future study, including a potential randomized controlled trial, the manualized GMT and availability of the VTM to ensure future clinical deployment of treatment, as warranted.

Cognitive rehabilitation and mindfulness reduce cognitive complaints in multiple sclerosis (REMIND-MS): A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Cognitive problems, both complaints and objective impairments, are frequent and disabling in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and profoundly affect daily living. However, intervention studies that focus on cognitive problems that patients experience in their daily lives are limited. This study therefore aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) on patient-reported cognitive complaints in MS.

METHODS

In this randomized-controlled trial, MS patients with cognitive complaints completed questionnaires and underwent neuropsychological assessments at baseline, post-treatment and 6-month follow-up. Patient-reported cognitive complaints were primarily investigated. Secondary outcomes included personalized cognitive goals and objective cognitive function. CRT and MBCT were compared to enhanced treatment as usual (ETAU) using linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Patients were randomized into CRT (n = 37), MBCT (n = 36) or ETAU (n = 37), of whom 100 completed the study. Both CRT and MBCT positively affected patient-reported cognitive complaints compared to ETAU at post-treatment (p<.05), but not 6 months later. At 6-month follow-up, CRT had a positive effect on personalized cognitive goals (p=.028) and MBCT on processing speed (p=.027). Patients with less cognitive complaints at baseline benefited more from CRT on the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (i.e. primary outcome measuring cognitive complaints) at post-treatment (p=.012-.040), and those with better processing speed at baseline benefited more from MBCT (p=.016).

CONCLUSION

Both CRT and MBCT alleviated cognitive complaints in MS patients immediately after treatment completion, but these benefits did not persist. In the long term, CRT showed benefits on personalized cognitive goals and MBCT on processing speed. These results thereby provide insight in the specific contributions of available cognitive treatments for MS patients.

INCOG 2.0 Guidelines for Cognitive Rehabilitation Following Traumatic Brain Injury, Part IV: Cognitive-Communication and Social Cognition Disorders

INTRODUCTION

Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury causes significant cognitive impairments, including impairments in social cognition, the ability to recognize others' emotions, and infer others' thoughts. These cognitive impairments can have profound negative effects on communication functions, resulting in a cognitive-communication disorder. Cognitive-communication disorders can significantly limit a person's ability to socialize, work, and study, and thus are critical targets for intervention. This article presents the updated INCOG 2.0 recommendations for management of cognitive-communication disorders. As social cognition is central to cognitive-communication disorders, this update includes interventions for social cognition.

METHODS

An expert panel of clinicians/researchers reviewed evidence published since 2014 and developed updated recommendations for interventions for cognitive-communication and social cognition disorders, a decision-making algorithm tool, and an audit tool for review of clinical practice.

RESULTS

Since INCOG 2014, there has been significant growth in cognitive-communication interventions and emergence of social cognition rehabilitation research. INCOG 2.0 has 9 recommendations, including 5 updated INCOG 2014 recommendations, and 4 new recommendations addressing cultural competence training, group interventions, telerehabilitation, and management of social cognition disorders. Cognitive-communication disorders should be individualized, goal- and outcome-oriented, and appropriate to the context in which the person lives and incorporate social communication and communication partner training. Group therapy and telerehabilitation are recommended to improve social communication. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) should be offered to the person with severe communication disability and their communication partners should also be trained to interact using AAC. Social cognition should be assessed and treated, with a focus on personally relevant contexts and outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The INCOG 2.0 recommendations reflect new evidence for treatment of cognitive-communication disorders, particularly social interactions, communication partner training, group treatments to improve social communication, and telehealth delivery. Evidence is emerging for the rehabilitation of social cognition; however, the impact on participation outcomes needs further research.

Functional improvement in chronic stroke patients when following a supervised home-based computerized cognitive training

BACKGROUND

Computerized Cognitive Training (CCT) is an effective treatment for cognitive impairment in the post-acute stage of stroke. However, it is still not clear if it is suitable for chronic stage.

OBJECTIVES

To explore if patients with cognitive deficit following stroke may benefit from CCT.

METHODS

Thirty patients post-stroke between 24 and 62 years old were randomized into two groups (A and B) to receive two different types of CCT. All patients were tested with a neuropsychological battery and functional questionnaires, before and after each CCT and also 6 months after the end of the study. In phase I, Group A received a customized CCT and Group B received a non-customized CCT, over 6 weeks. Three months after, each group received the other intervention (phase II).

RESULTS

After phase I, between-group analyses revealed that Group A showed a relative decrease in subjective complaints. In contrast, Group B showed improvement in performance-based measures. After phase II, the decrease in subjective complaints continued in Group A, and both groups showed improvement in performance-based measures.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with chronic stroke improved cognitive functioning after performing supervised home-based multi-domain computerized cognitive training.

Efficacy potential of Goal Management Training to improve cognitive function in older people living with HIV

Goal Management Training® (GMT) teaches strategies to reduce cognitive load and improve focus in everyday tasks. The aim of this study was to ascertain feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy potential of GMT for people (≥50 years) with stable HIV infection scoring low on tests of cognitive ability. A two-sample, parallel, controlled trial was carried out. Feasibility was demonstrated, as 21/30 participants in the GMT group attended ≥8 of the 9 sessions and completed at least half of the homework. There was no change on the primary performance-based cognitive outcomes in the GMT group or in the control group (n = 23). There was a meaningful improvement in self-reported cognition in those adherent to the intervention. GMT is a promising intervention for people aging with HIV who are dealing with cognitive difficulties affecting their everyday life and should be further investigated.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Clinical Practice Guideline: Cognitive Rehabilitation for the Management of Cognitive Dysfunction Associated With Acquired Brain Injury

BACKGROUND

Cognitive-communication impairments following acquired brain injury (ABI) can have devastating effects on a person's ability to participate in community, social, vocational, and academic preinjury roles and responsibilities. Guidelines for evidence-based practices are needed to assist speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and other rehabilitation specialists in the delivery of cognitive rehabilitation for the adult population.

PURPOSE

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, in conjunction with a multidisciplinary panel of subject matter experts, developed this guideline to identify best practice recommendations for the delivery of cognitive rehabilitation to adults with cognitive dysfunction associated with ABI.

METHOD

A multidisciplinary panel identified 19 critical questions to be addressed in the guideline. Literature published between 1980 and 2020 was identified based on a set of a priori inclusion/exclusion criteria, and main findings were pooled and organized into summary of findings tables. Following the principles of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Evidence to Decision Framework, the panel drafted recommendations, when appropriate, based on the findings, overall quality of the evidence, balance of benefits and harms, patient preferences, resource implications, and the feasibility and acceptability of cognitive rehabilitation.

RECOMMENDATIONS

This guideline includes one overarching evidence-based recommendation that addresses the management of cognitive dysfunction following ABI and 11 subsequent recommendations focusing on cognitive rehabilitation treatment approaches, methods, and manner of delivery. In addition, this guideline includes an overarching consensus-based recommendation and seven additional consensus recommendations highlighting the role of the SLP in the screening, assessment, and treatment of adults with cognitive dysfunction associated with ABI. Future research considerations are also discussed.

Occupational therapy for cognitive impairment in stroke patients

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment is a frequent consequence of stroke and can impact on a person's ability to perform everyday activities. Occupational therapists use a range of interventions when working with people who have cognitive impairment poststroke. This is an update of a Cochrane Review published in 2010.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the impact of occupational therapy on activities of daily living (ADL), both basic and instrumental, global cognitive function, and specific cognitive abilities in people who have cognitive impairment following a stroke.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, four other databases (all last searched September 2020), trial registries, and reference lists.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials that evaluated an intervention for adults with clinically defined stroke and confirmed cognitive impairment. The intervention needed either to be provided by an occupational therapist or considered within the scope of occupational therapy practice as defined in the review. We excluded studies focusing on apraxia or perceptual impairments or virtual reality interventions as these are covered by other Cochrane Reviews. The primary outcome was basic activities of daily living (BADL) such as dressing, feeding, and bathing. Secondary outcomes were instrumental ADL (IADL) (e.g. shopping and meal preparation), community integration and participation, global cognitive function and specific cognitive abilities (including attention, memory, executive function, or a combination of these), and subdomains of these abilities. We included both observed and self-reported outcome measures.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies that met the inclusion criteria, extracted data, and assessed the certainty of the evidence. A third review author moderated disagreements if consensus was not reached. We contacted trial authors for additional information and data, where available. We assessed the certainty of key outcomes using GRADE.  MAIN RESULTS: We included 24 trials from 11 countries involving 1142 (analysed) participants (two weeks to eight years since stroke onset). This update includes 23 new trials in addition to the one study included in the previous version. Most were parallel randomised controlled trials except for one cross-over trial and one with a two-by-two factorial design. Most studies had sample sizes under 50 participants. Twenty studies involved a remediation approach to cognitive rehabilitation, particularly using computer-based interventions. The other four involved a compensatory and adaptive approach. The length of interventions ranged from 10 days to 18 weeks, with a mean total length of 19 hours. Control groups mostly received usual rehabilitation or occupational therapy care, with a few receiving an attention control that was comparable to usual care; two had no intervention (i.e. a waiting list). Apart from high risk of performance bias for all but one of the studies, the risk of bias for other aspects was mostly low or unclear.  For the primary outcome of BADL, meta-analysis found a small effect on completion of the intervention with a mean difference (MD) of 2.26 on the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17 to 4.22; P = 0.03, I2 = 0%; 6 studies, 336 participants; low-certainty evidence). Therefore, on average, BADL improved by 2.26 points on the FIM that ranges from 18 (total assist) to 126 (complete independence). On follow-up, there was insufficient evidence of an effect at three months (MD 10.00, 95% CI -0.54 to 20.55; P = 0.06, I2 = 53%; 2 studies, 73 participants; low-certainty evidence), but evidence of an effect at six months (MD 11.38, 95% CI 1.62 to 21.14, I2 = 12%; 2 studies, 73 participants; low-certainty evidence). These differences are below 22 points which is the established minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the FIM for people with stroke. For IADL, the evidence is very uncertain about an effect (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.94, 95% CI 0.41 to 1.47; P = 0.0005, I2 = 98%; 2 studies, 88 participants). For community integration, we found insufficient evidence of an effect (SMD 0.09, 95% CI -0.35 to 0.54; P = 0.68, I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 78 participants). There was an improvement of clinical importance in global cognitive functional performance after the intervention (SMD 0.35, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.54; P = 0.0004, I2 = 0%; 9 studies, 432 participants; low-certainty evidence), equating to 1.63 points on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) (95% CI 0.75 to 2.52), which exceeds the anchor-based MCID of the MoCA for stroke rehabilitation patients of 1.22. We found some effect for attention overall (SMD -0.31, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.15; P = 0.0002, I2 = 20%; 13 studies, 620 participants; low-certainty evidence), equating to a difference of 17.31 seconds (95% CI 8.38 to 26.24), and for executive functional performance overall (SMD 0.49, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.66; P < 0.00001, I2 = 74%; 11 studies, 550 participants; very low-certainty evidence), equating to 1.41 points on the Frontal Assessment Battery (range: 0-18). Of the cognitive subdomains, we found evidence of effect of possible clinical importance, immediately after intervention, for sustained visual attention (moderate certainty) equating to 15.63 seconds, for working memory (low certainty) equating to 59.9 seconds, and thinking flexibly (low certainty), compared to control.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness of occupational therapy for cognitive impairment poststroke remains unclear. Occupational therapy may result in little to no clinical difference in BADL immediately after intervention and at three and six months' follow-up. Occupational therapy may slightly improve global cognitive performance of a clinically important difference immediately after intervention, likely improves sustained visual attention slightly, and may slightly increase working memory and flexible thinking after intervention. There is evidence of low or very low certainty or insufficient evidence for effect on other cognitive domains, IADL, and community integration and participation.  Given the low certainty of much of the evidence in our review, more research is needed to support or refute the effectiveness of occupational therapy for cognitive impairment after stroke. Future trials need improved methodology to address issues including risk of bias and to better report the outcome measures and interventions used.

Computer aided self-regulation learning and cognitive training improve generalization ability of patients with poststroke cognitive impairment

Emerging studies suggest the application of self-regulation learning (SRL) to improve generalization abilities in poststroke patients. SRL has been proposed to have an added effect on computer-aided cognitive training (CACT). This study aimed to examine the efficacy of an intervention combining computer-aided SRL (CA-SRL) training and CACT for generalization abilities and cognitive function in patients with poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). A total of 75 patients recruited from a rehabilitation centre were randomly assigned to a CA-SRL group, demonstration learning (DL) group and traditional learning (TL) group. Finally, 72 patients were included in the analysis. Over 3 weeks, the patients in these three groups underwent CA-SRL or DL training combined with cognitive training. After the intervention, all outcomes significantly improved (P < 0.05). The CA-SRL group showed better improvements in all trained tasks among the groups, especially in "wash the dishes" and "change the bed". The results of the analysis for generalization abilities showed that CA-SRL group patients obtained the highest scores among the groups in untrained tasks. The mean changes in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in both the CA-SRL and TL groups were significantly higher than those in the DL group (P < 0.001, P = 0.002) after adjusting for education level and Lawton Instrumental ADL Scale score. In general, the combination of CA-SRL and CACT is effective for PSCI patients and has a better effect on promoting skill generalization from cognitive gains than traditional training.

Rehabilitation of executive function in chronic paediatric brain injury: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Impaired executive functions (EFs, i.e., purposeful, goal-directed behaviour) cause significant disability after paediatric acquired brain injury (pABI) warranting efficient interventions. Goal Management Training (GMT) is a metacognitive protocol proven effective for executive dysfunction in adults. This pre-registered, blinded, parallel-randomized controlled trial evaluated efficacy of a paediatric adaptation (pGMT) compared to a psychoeducative control (paediatric Brain Health Workshop, pBHW) to improve EF.

METHODS

Children aged 10 to 17 years with pABI (e.g., traumatic brain injury, brain tumour), ≥ 1 year post-onset or ended treatment, with parent-reported EF complaints were eligible. Participants were randomized (computer-algorithm) to either group-based pGMT (n = 38) or pBHW (n = 38). The active control was tailored to keep non-specific factors constant. Thus, both treatments comprised of 7 sessions at hospitals over 3 consecutive weeks, followed by 4 weeks of telephone counselling of participants, parents, and teachers. Parent-reported daily life EF, assessed by the questionnaire Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF; Behavioral Regulation Index (BRI) and Metacognition Index (MI)), were co-primary outcomes 6 months post-intervention. Secondary outcomes included neuropsychological tests and a complex naturalistic task (Children's Cooking Task).

RESULTS

Seventy-three participants (96%) completed allocated interventions and 71 (93%) attended the 6-month follow-up. The results demonstrated no significant difference in effectiveness for the two interventions on parent-reported EF: For BRIEFBRI, mean (SD) raw score for pGMT was 42.7 (8.8) and 38.3 (9.3) for pBHW. Estimated difference was - 2.3 (95% CI - 5.1 to 0.6). For BRIEFMI, the corresponding results were 80.9 (20.4) for GMT and 75.5 (19.3) for pBHW. Estimated difference was - 1.4 (95% CI -8.5 to 5.8). In performance-based tests, pGMT was associated with improved inhibition and executive attention, while pBHW was associated with fewer errors in the naturalistic task.

CONCLUSIONS

In pABI, metacognitive training (pGMT) did not demonstrate additional effectiveness on parent-reported daily life EF at 6-month follow-up, when compared to a psychoeducative control. Both interventions were well-tolerated and demonstrated distinct improvements at different EF assessment levels. To conclude on pGMT efficacy, larger studies are needed, including further investigation of appropriate assessment levels and possible differences in effect related to treatment duration, developmental factors, and injury characteristics.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT0321534211, 11 July 2017.

Improvement of Planning Abilities in Adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a neurodevelopmental genetic disorder with executive deficits. Planning is one of the impaired executive functions implied in the regulation of behavior and everyday actions. We aimed to explore the feasibility and the effectiveness of a metacognitive strategy training designed to improve planning in adults with PWS using a double-blind between-group (training versus usual care) randomized controlled trial, with computerized tests and paper-pencil ecological outcome measures targeting planning, other executive functions, and achievement of personalized goal. Results showed better performances in several executive tasks and in achievement of personalized goals after both interventions, but better improvement for the experimental group (n = 27) compared to control (n = 26) only on the task assessing planning abilities. Interviews with occupational therapists demonstrated the feasibility of this training with this population. Despite a small number of sessions, the metacognitive strategy training showed encouraging results on planning abilities of patients.

Predictors of return to work after moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury: a systematic review of current literature and recommendations for future research

PURPOSE

To identify factors associated with employment between six months and five years after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHODS

Using a predefined search algorithm, four electronic databases were searched for literature published between 2014 and the first half of April 2021 containing predictors of employment outcome. Data were selected in accordance with the PRISMA flow and the whole process was conducted by two reviewers who had to attain a consensus. The study results were discussed with an expert panel, in order to provide guidance for future research on this topic.

RESULTS

This review found clear evidence for employment status at time of injury, occupation at time of injury, Glasgow Coma Scale, length of stay, disability level and primary payer to be predictors of return to work after TBI.

CONCLUSIONS

More literature investigating in depth the functioning and environmental factors is required for further improvement of predictions, rehabilitation and policy.Implications for rehabilitationThis study identifies predictors of return to work in TBI patients, which can be used to identify patients with high risk early in the recovery process.Current literature shows difficulties with general functioning are a barrier for return to work, but gives no indication about effective therapeutic interventions.More knowledge about modifiable factors is desirable to improve rehabilitation and, thereby, employment outcomes after TBI.

The impact of multimodal cognitive rehabilitation on executive functions in older adults with traumatic brain injury

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the impact of a 12-week, 24-session multimodal group cognitive rehabilitation intervention, the Cognitive Enrichment Program (CEP), on executive functioning and resumption of daily activities after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in older individuals as compared with an active control group that received individual holistic rehabilitation as usual care.

METHODS

In total, 37 patients with a TBI and aged 57 to 90 years were assigned to experimental (n = 23) and control (n = 14) groups in a semi-randomized, controlled, before-after intervention trial with follow-up at 6 months, with blinded outcome measurement. The CEP's executive function module included planning, problem solving, and goal management training as well as strategies focusing on self-awareness. Efficacy was evaluated by neuropsychological tests (Six Elements Task-Adapted [SET-A], D-KEFS Sorting test and Stroop four-color version); generalization was measured by self-reporting questionnaires about daily functioning (Dysexecutive Functioning Questionnaire, forsaken daily activities).

RESULTS

ANCOVA results showed significant group-by-time interactions; the experimental group showed a statistically significant improvement on Tackling the 6 subtasks and Avoiding rule-breaking measures of the SET-A, with medium effect sizes. The generalization measure, the Dysexecutive Functioning Questionnaire, showed a significant reduction in experimental patient-significant other difference on the Executive cognition subscale. The number of forsaken daily activities was reduced in the experimental versus control group, which was not significant immediately after the CEP but was significant 6 months later.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that older adults with TBI can improve their executive functioning, with a positive impact on everyday activities, after receiving multimodal cognitive training with the CEP. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04590911.

Working memory training: Taking a step back to retool and create a bridge between clinical and neuroimaging research methods

Improvements in patient outcomes and mortality after brain injury alongside increasing ageing population have resulted in an increasing need to develop cognitive interventions for individuals experiencing changes in their cognitive function. One topic of increasing research interest is whether cognitive functions such as attention, memory and executive functioning can be improved through the use of working memory training interventions. Both clinical and neuroimaging researchers are working to evidence this, but their efforts rarely come together. We discuss here several issues that may be hindering progress in this area, including the tools researchers utilize to measure cognition, the choice between employing active or passive control groups, the focus on transfer effects at the expense of well-characterized training effects, and the overall lack of neuroimaging studies in individuals with neurological disorders. We argue that the only way to advance the field is to build bridges between the disciplines of clinical neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience. We suggest a multi-level framework to validate the efficacy of working memory interventions and other forms of cognitive training that combine both clinical and neuroimaging approaches. We conclude that in order to move forward we need to form multidisciplinary teams, employ interdisciplinary methods, brain imaging quality rating tools and build national and international collaborations based on open science principles.

The efficacy of computerized cognitive rehabilitation in improving attention and executive functions in acquired brain injury patients, in acute and postacute phase

BACKGROUND

Cognitive deficits, particularly executive dysfunction is common following acquired brain injury (ABI) and has detrimental effect on functional status and autonomy in daily life. Among various cognitive training methods, computerized cognitive rehabilitation (CCR) has been investigated as an alternative method to therapist-driven cognitive rehabilitation (TCR). However, previous studies have shown conflicting results on the superiority or inferiority of CCR and TCR.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy of TCR and CCR in improving executive function in patients with acute-to-subacute ABI.

DESIGN

A prospective, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Hospitalized care setting in the department of rehabilitation in a university hospital.

POPULATION

Thirty-two acute-to-subacute (less than 3 months after onset) ABI patients with executive dysfunctions were included in this study. The mean time after injury was 25.1±18.1 days.

METHODS

Participants were assigned to the TCR group (N.=14) or the CCR group (N.=18). Each group performed TCR or CCR for 30 minutes each day for two weeks in addition to routine rehabilitation. Neurocognitive function tests to assess complex attention, executive function, general cognitive function (mini-mental status examination [MMSE] and Montreal Cognitive Assessment [MoCA]), and functional evaluations [modified Barthel Index, MBI]) were performed at baseline (T0) and at the end of treatment (T1).

RESULTS

The TCR and CCR groups showed significant improvements in the MMSE (P=0.004, 0.000), MoCA (P=0.003, 0.006), and MBI (P=0.000, 0.000) scores. TCR and CCR groups both showed significant improvements in some of the complex attention tests (trail-making test A, P=0.002, 0.005) and executive function tests (trail-making test B, P=0.016, 0.016). The TCR group showed significant improvements in the additional executive function tests (phonemic fluency test, P=0.004, semantic fluency test, P=0.001), while the CCR group showed significant improvements in the additional complex attention tests (symbol search, P=0.02, digit symbol coding, P=0.002). In the intergroup comparison of the changes from pre- to postintervention, only the TCR group showed a significant improvement in the phonemic fluency test (P=0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

TCR might be more effective than CCR in improving frontal lobe-related executive function in ABI patients. CCR might be beneficial for improving psychomotor speed and working memory.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

TCR or CCR should be chosen according to the targeted domain of cognitive dysfunction in acute-to-subacute ABI patients.

Participation based intervention with acquired brain injury: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Continued long-term rehabilitation programs with acquired brain injury are important for their participation in meaningful daily activities.

OBJECTIVE

This paper investigated the participation-based interventions on outcomes in patients with acquired brain injury.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis search for randomized control trials published between 1998 and 2019 using PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE was performed. Nine studies were selected and analyzed for systematic review. Five studies analyzed the effectiveness of participation-based intervention using meta-analysis and assessed the level of evidence of qualitative studies.

RESULTS

A total of 843 publications were searched. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were of high quality. The effective score for improving participation following participation-based interventions in persons with acquired brain injury was 0.32 and significant in this study (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that, in persons with acquired brain injury, participation-based interventions are essential for community living.

Cognitive strategy training for adults with neurological conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis exploring effect on occupational performance

Introduction

The objective of this systematic review was to synthesise the evidence for cognitive strategy training to determine its effectiveness to improve performance of activities of daily living in an adult neurological population.

Method

Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, PSYCInfo, PsycBITE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched until August 2019. Studies examining the effect of cognitive strategy training on functional performance were included. Population criteria included adults with non-progressive neurological conditions. External and internal validity of included studies was systematically evaluated using an appropriate methodological quality assessment for each study design. A content analysis was conducted of the methodologies used.

Findings

Forty-one studies met the inclusion criteria and were appraised for content, 16 randomised or quasi-randomised trials were meta-analysed. Trial quality was generally ‘good’, Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale scores ranged from 3 to 8 (out of 10). For activity performance outcomes post-intervention, there was a significant benefit of cognitive strategy training over usual care (standardised mean difference 0.79, 95% confidence interval 0.49–1.09; P < 0.00001).

Conclusion

More high-quality research is needed to strengthen the evidence base for cognitive strategy interventions to improve activity performance outcomes for adults with non-progressive neurological conditions.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42016033728

Effectiveness of theta and gamma electroacupuncture for post-stroke patients on working memory and electrophysiology: study protocol for a double-center, randomized, patient- and assessor-blinded, sham-controlled, parallel, clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Practitioners of complementary and alternative medicine have suggested that electroacupuncture (EA) could improve post-stroke cognitive impairment, based on the clinical evidence. This study protocol is aimed at showing the effectiveness of theta and gamma EA for post-stroke patients on working memory (WM) and electrophysiology.

METHODS

After assessing their eligibility, 66 patients with stroke will be enrolled from two Chinese medicine hospitals and randomly divided into theta frequency EA group, gamma frequency EA group, and sham-EA group according to the ratio of 1:1:1. All patients will receive 20 sessions of EA procedures for 4 weeks. Patients in three groups will receive EA at two same acupoints in the head: Baihui (GV20) and Shenting (GV24). The frequency of the three groups of EA is set as follows: 6 Hz (theta-EA group), 40 Hz (gamma-EA group), and no current through the electrodes (sham EA). Patients and assessors will be blinded throughout the entire study. The primary outcome is the performance accuracy of 1-back task which is a frequently used measure of WM in cognitive neuroscience research contexts. Secondary outcome measures will include the response time of 1-back task, the Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test, Trail Making Test, Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment Scale, modified Barthel Index, and electroencephalogram (EEG) signals during 1-back tasks. A blinding index will be assessed. Data will be statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA, at 5% of significance level.

DISCUSSION

We expect this double-center, randomized, patient- and assessor-blinded, sham-controlled, parallel, clinical trial to explore the effectiveness of theta and gamma EA therapy, compared with sham EA, for post-stroke WM.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000031995 . Registered on 17 April 2020.

Self-Awareness Moderates the Association Between Executive Dysfunction and Functional Independence After Acquired Brain Injury

OBJECTIVE

Impaired self-awareness (SA) is a common symptom after suffering acquired brain injury (ABI) which interferes with patient's rehabilitation and their functional independence. SA is associated with executive function and declarative memory, two cognitive functions that are related to participants' daily living functionality. Through this observational study, we aim to explore whether SA may play a moderator role in the relation between these two cognitive processes and functional independence.

METHOD

A sample of 69 participants with ABI completed a neuropsychological assessment focused on executive function and declarative memory which also included a measure of SA and functional independence. Two separated linear models were performed including functional independence, SA, and two neuropsychological factors (declarative memory and executive function) derived from a previous principal component analysis.

RESULTS

Moderation analysis show a significant interaction between SA and executive function, reflecting an association between lower executive functioning and poorer functional outcome, only in participants with low levels of SA. Notwithstanding, declarative memory do not show a significant interaction with SA, even though higher declarative memory scores were associated with better functional independence.

CONCLUSIONS

SA seems to play a moderator effect between executive function, but not declarative memory, and functional independence. Accordingly, participants with executive deficits and low levels of SA might benefit from receiving specific SA interventions in the first instance, which would in turn positively impact on their functional independence.

Cognitive predictors of self-awareness in patients with acquired brain injury along neuropsychological rehabilitation

Previous research has identified a critical role of executive function and memory in self-awareness, a metacognitive capacity often impaired in acquired brain injury. Through this observational study, we aimed to explore the effect of cognitive rehabilitation on the predictive value of these variables, as also whether any of them can predict the level of self-awareness once the cognitive rehabilitation is completed. 69 patients underwent a neuropsychological assessment, including self-awareness, at admission to and discharge from a cognitive rehabilitation process. Regression analysis was performed at these two moments and a third one was conducted to evaluate whether any of the variables at admission predicted the level of self-awareness at discharge. Verbal fluency was found to be the best predictor of self-awareness, both at admission and discharge. In addition, inhibition and cognitive flexibility, as well as episodic memory, appeared as significant predictors of post-rehabilitation self-awareness. Finally, verbal fluency was revealed as the unique pre-rehabilitation predictor of subsequent level of self-awareness following rehabilitation. While post-acute self-awareness is predicted by non-specific executive measures, the cognitive improvement putatively induced by neuropsychological rehabilitation reveals the contribution of more specific executive and memory functions. Importantly, pre-rehabilitation verbal fluency scores predicted the level of self-awareness after cognitive rehabilitation.

Cognitive rehabilitation for attention deficits following stroke

BACKGROUND

Many survivors of stroke report attentional impairments, such as diminished concentration and distractibility. However, the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation for improving these impairments is uncertain.This is an update of the Cochrane Review first published in 2000 and previously updated in 2013.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether people receiving cognitive rehabilitation for attention problems 1. show better outcomes in their attentional functions than those given no treatment or treatment as usual, and 2. have a better functional recovery, in terms of independence in activities of daily living, mood, and quality of life, than those given no treatment or treatment as usual.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PsycBITE, REHABDATA and ongoing trials registers up to February 2019. We screened reference lists and tracked citations using Scopus.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included controlled clinical trials (CCTs) and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of cognitive rehabilitation for impairments of attention for people with stroke. We did not consider listening to music, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness to be a form of cognitive rehabilitation. We only considered trials that selected people with demonstrable or self-reported attentional deficits. The primary outcomes were measures of global attentional functions, and secondary outcomes were measures of attentional domains (i.e. alertness, selective attention, sustained attention, divided attention), functional abilities, mood, and quality of life.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

We included no new trials in this update. The results are unchanged from the previous review and are based on the data of six RCTs with 223 participants. All six RCTs compared cognitive rehabilitation with a usual care control. Meta-analyses demonstrated no convincing effect of cognitive rehabilitation on subjective measures of attention either immediately after treatment (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.03 to 1.08; P = 0.06; 2 studies, 53 participants; very low-quality evidence) or at follow-up (SMD 0.16, 95% CI -0.23 to 0.56; P = 0.41; 2 studies, 99 participants; very low-quality evidence). People receiving cognitive rehabilitation (when compared with control) showed that measures of divided attention recorded immediately after treatment may improve (SMD 0.67, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.98; P < 0.0001; 4 studies, 165 participants; low-quality evidence), but it is uncertain that these effects persisted (SMD 0.36, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.76; P = 0.08; 2 studies, 99 participants; very low-quality evidence). There was no evidence for immediate or persistent effects of cognitive rehabilitation on alertness, selective attention, and sustained attention. There was no convincing evidence for immediate or long-term effects of cognitive rehabilitation for attentional problems on functional abilities, mood, and quality of life after stroke.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation for attention deficits following stroke remains unconfirmed. The results suggest there may be an immediate effect after treatment on attentional abilities, but future studies need to assess what helps this effect persist and generalise to attentional skills in daily life. Trials also need to have higher methodological quality and better reporting.

Long-Term Effect of Cognitive Rehabilitation Regardless of Prerehabilitation Cognitive Status for Veterans with TBI

Persisting difficulties in executive functioning (EF) are common after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Cognitive rehabilitation can be effective, but the impact of pretreatment neurocognitive functioning on long term effects of rehabilitation is unknown. Because this information can impact treatment planning, we examined the relationship between prerehabilitation neurocognitive status and long-term effects of EF training. Archival data were drawn from a trial of Goal-Oriented Attentional Self-Regulation group-format EF training for Veterans with TBI [mild-severe; 11 years postinjury; 96% male, 32% nonwhite, 14.21 years education (SD 1.72), 41.13 years old (SD 11.39)]. Using prerehabilitation neurocognitive performance, participants were clustered into cognitive difficulty (CD) and cognitively normal (CN) groups. Six-plus months after EF rehabilitation training, participants completed a structured telephone interview and/or in-person cognitive/functional/emotional assessment using standardized measures of cognitive, daily, and emotional functioning frequently employed in TBI research. At 6+ months post-EF training compared to prerehabilitation, CD and CN improved in multiple cognitive (Overall Attention/EF: F(1,18) = 26.17, partial η² = .59; Total Memory: F(1,18) = 6.82, partial η² = .28) and functional domains (Goal Processing Scale [GPS] total score: F(1,15) = 6.71, partial η² = .31). CD improved more than CN on Learning and Memory functional domain [F(1,15) = 6.10, partial η² = .29]. Results of our small archival analysis raise the possibility that Veterans with chronic TBI may demonstrate long-term effects of EF training.

Long-term effects of executive function training among veterans with chronic TBI

Objective: To investigate long-term effects of GOALS executive function training in Veterans with chronic TBI. In a recently completed study Veterans with chronic TBI showed improvement immediately post-GOALS but not control training on measures of executive function, functional task performance, and emotion regulation. We now examine the long-term maintenance of post-GOALS training changes in the same sample. Setting: San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS), and VA Northern California Health-Care System (VANCHS) in Martinez. Participants and Design: 24 Veterans with chronic TBI were assessed at baseline, post-GOALS training, and long-term follow-up 6+ months following completion of training with a structured telephone interview, neuropsychological and complex functional performance measures, and self-report measures of daily and emotional functioning. Results: Participants reported an increased likelihood of involvement in competitive employment/volunteering at follow-up (61%) compared to baseline (26%; χ2 = 5.66, p < .01, ѱ = .35). Repeated measures MANOVAS indicated improvement on attention/executive function (F = 13.85, p < .01, partial η2 = .42), complex functional task performance (GPS Total: F = 9.12, p < .01, partial η2 = .38) and daily functioning (MPAI Total: F = 3.23, p < .05, partial η2 = .21), and reduction in overall mood disturbance (POMS Total: F = 3.42, p < .05, partial η2 = .22) at follow-up relative to baseline. Discussion: Training in attention regulation applied to participant-defined goals is associated with meaningful long-term improvement in cognitive skills, emotion regulation, and daily functioning in Veterans with chronic TBI.

Return to work after subarachnoid hemorrhage: The influence of cognitive deficits

INTRODUCTION

Cognitive deficits are frequently found after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), but their influence on return to work is largely unknown. To improve identification of those patients at-risk for long-term return to work problems, we aimed to examine the value of cognitive deficits in the prediction of long-term return to work after subarachnoid hemorrhage.

METHODS

SAH patients (N = 71) who were employed before SAH and were able to undergo neuropsychological assessment, were included. Demographic characteristics and acute SAH-related variables (SAH-type and external cerebrospinal fluid drainage) were taken into account. Neuropsychological tests for memory, speed, attention, executive function, and emotion recognition and a questionnaire for executive functions were used. Return to work was assessed using the Role Resumption List.

RESULTS

Results showed that patients with incomplete return to work had significantly lower scores on neuropsychological measures for complex attention and executive functions (p < 0.05) compared to patients with complete return to work. Return to work could not be significantly predicted using only demographic characteristics and acute SAH-related variables, but adding measures of complex attention and executive functions resulted in a prognostic model that could reliably distinguish between complete and incomplete return to work. Statistically significant predictors in the final model were cerebrospinal fluid drainage and scores on a questionnaire for executive functions: patients with cerebrospinal fluid drainage and higher scores on the a questionnaire for executive functions were less likely to return to work.

DISCUSSION

Together, these findings show that neuropsychological measures, especially for complex attention and executive functions, have added value to acute SAH-related and demographic variables in the prediction of long-term return to work after SAH.

Paediatric goal management training in patients with acquired brain injury: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Compromised integrity of the brain due to paediatric acquired brain injury (pABI) has been associated with cognitive impairment, particularly executive dysfunction, in addition to somatic and emotional symptoms and reduced everyday function. Goal Management Training (GMT) is a cognitive rehabilitation intervention for improving executive function (EF) that has received empirical support in studies of adults with ABI. The purpose of the present study is to determine the efficacy of a recently developed paediatric version of GMT (pGMT) for children and adolescents with ABI and reported executive dysfunction.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study protocol describes a parallel randomised controlled trial including allocation concealment and assessor blinding. Eighty survivors after pABI, aged 10-17 years at the time of intervention, will be recruited. Participants will be randomly allocated to either pGMT (n=40) or a psychoeducative control intervention (n=40; paediatric Brain Health Workshop). Both interventions consist of seven group sessions for participants and parents, followed by external cueing and telephone counselling. The study also includes involvement of teachers. Assessments will be performed at baseline, immediately postintervention and at 6 months' follow-up. Primary outcome measure will be changes in daily life EF as reported by parents (The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function). Secondary outcomes include other assessments of EF (neuropsychological tests and questionnaires). Furthermore, we aim to assess generalisation effects of pGMT on other cognitive functions, as well as emotional, behavioural, adaptive and family function, academic performance, fatigue and quality of life.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Results from this study will be disseminated to relevant research, clinical, health service and patient communities through publications in peer-reviewed and popular science journals, in addition to presentations at scientific conferences. The study will be conducted in accordance with the Helsinki declaration and the Ethical Research Involving Children (ChildWatch International and Unicef). In accordance to Good Clinical Practice our study includes safety and quality monitoring guarantees in compliance with research ethics and safety. The trial will be reported in accordance with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials 2010 statement and Standard Protocol Items for Reporting in Trials recommendations, in addition to being registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. The study has been approved by the Regional Committees for Medical and Health Research Ethics Norway (2017/772).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03215342.

Unraveling the Biopsychosocial Factors of Fatigue and Sleep Problems After Traumatic Brain Injury: Protocol for a Multicenter Longitudinal Cohort Study

Background

Fatigue and sleep problems are common after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and are experienced as highly distressing symptoms, playing a significant role in the recovery trajectory, and they can drastically impact the quality of life and societal participation of the patient and their family and friends. However, the etiology and development of these symptoms are still uncertain.

Objective

The aim of this study is to examine the development of fatigue and sleep problems following moderate to severe TBI and to explore the changes in underlying biological (pain, brain damage), psychological (emotional state), and social (support family, participation) factors across time.

Methods

This study is a longitudinal multicenter observational cohort study with 4 measurement points (3, 6, 12, and 18 months postinjury) including subjective questionnaires and cognitive tasks, preceded by 7 nights of actigraphy combined with a sleep diary. Recruitment of 137 moderate to severe TBI patients presenting at emergency and neurology departments or rehabilitation centers across the Netherlands is anticipated. The evolution of fatigue and sleep problems following TBI and their association with possible underlying biological (pain, brain damage), psychological (emotional state), and social (support family, participation) factors will be examined.

Results

Recruitment of participants for this longitudinal cohort study started in October 2017, and the enrollment of participants is ongoing. The first results are expected at the end of 2020.

Conclusions

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that examines the development of both post-TBI fatigue and sleep longitudinally within a biopsychosocial model in moderate to severe TBI using both subjective and objective measures. Identification of modifiable factors such as mood and psychosocial stressors may give direction to the development of interventions for fatigue and sleep problems post-TBI.

Trial Registration

Netherlands Trial Register NTR7162; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=7162 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6z3mvNLuy)

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR1-10.2196/11295

Incorporation of a working memory strategy in GMT to facilitate serial-order behaviour in brain-injured patients

Goal Management Training (GMT) is an effective method for improving disorganised behaviour in multistep real-life tasks after brain damage. In the present study we incorporated Working Memory Training (WMT) in GMT to explore their combined efficacy in facilitating the serial-order maintenance of the steps that had to be learned. GMT+WMT was compared to a control WMT designed for other purposes. For this purpose 18 brain-injured patients (aged 20-54), who were at least 4 months post-onset, were randomly assigned to either the GMT+WMT or the WMT treatment. Inclusion was based on a baseline score of less than six correct steps on each of two multistep everyday tasks. Alternative versions of these tasks were used as primary outcome tasks. Pre-treatment and post-treatment comparisons of scores on these primary tasks and on several secondary neuropsychological measures were collected. The results show that post-treatment the GMT+WMT group performed significantly better than the WMT group on the primary outcome measures and on several ecologically valid executive tests that demanded a step-by-step maintenance of multiple actions. Time effects were found for both groups on the secondary measures. Other measures showed no significant differences. We conclude that our results support the efficacy of the combined GMT+WMT in facilitating performance in everyday multistep tasks.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Community Integration and Return to Work After Acquired Brain Injury

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether emotional intelligence (EI) skills measured via the Perceiving, Understanding, and Managing Emotions branches of the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test V2.0 are associated with community integration (CI) and return to work (RTW) after moderate-to-severe acquired brain injury (ABI), after accounting for other established predictors.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Outpatient follow-up services within 2 specialist ABI rehabilitation centers in Melbourne, Australia.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals (N=82) with moderate-to-severe ABI discharged from inpatient rehabilitation and living in the community (2mo to 7y postinjury).

INTERVENTION

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Community Integration Questionnaire scores for the total sample (N=82; age range 18-80) and RTW status (employed vs not employed) for the subset of participants employed prior to ABI (n=71; age range 19-66).

RESULTS

Hierarchical logistic and multiple regression analyses were used to examine the unique contribution of Perceiving, Understanding, and Managing Emotions scores to RTW and CI, after controlling for demographic, injury-related, psychological, and cognitive predictors. As a set, the 3 EI variables did not explain incremental variance in outcomes. However, individually, Understanding Emotions predicted RTW (adjusted odds ratio=3.10, P=.03), χ² (12)=35.52, P<.001, and Managing Emotions predicted CI (β=0.23, P=.036), F_12,69=5.14, P<.001.

CONCLUSION

Although the EI constructs in combination did not improve prediction beyond the effects of established variables, individual components of strategic EI may be important for specific participation outcomes after ABI.

Effectiveness of ReSET; a strategic executive treatment for executive dysfunctioning in patients with Parkinson's disease

In this multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT), 43 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) were randomly allocated to either the experimental condition receiving cognitive rehabilitation including strategy training (ReSET; Strategic Executive Treatment, n = 24) or to the control condition receiving computerised repetitive practice training for attention (Cogniplus, n = 16). We expected that strategy training (ReSET) would be more effective than cognitive training (Cogniplus) in improving patients' everyday life executive functioning. Neuropsychological assessment was administered at baseline, at 2 weeks and 3-5 months post-treatment. Primary outcome measure was the Role Resumption List (RRL). Secondary outcome measures were treatment goal attainment (TGA), Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX), Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39), Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) and neuropsychological tests. No effects of treatment were found on the primary outcome measure and on neuropsychological tests, except for one test of attention. At 2 weeks and 3-5 months post-treatment, PD patients in both the ReSET and Cogniplus group reported a significant improvement in everyday life executive functioning, as measured with TGA and the DEX-self, with an advantage for ReSET only shortly after treatment. Given these results and that PD patients were able to adhere to these treatments despite their motor symptoms and fatigue (i.e., the drop-out rate was small), we conclude that both strategy training and cognitive training for impairments in EF might be beneficial and feasible for PD patients.

Effectiveness of goal management training® in improving executive functions: A meta-analysis

Our objective was to review the literature and quantitatively summarise the effectiveness of Goal Management Training® (GMT) (alone or in combination with other training approaches) in improving executive functions in adult populations. Ovid, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global were searched for articles citing "goal management training". Any group trials (n > 3) in adults that used multiple-session GMT programmes were included in the analyses. Outcome variables were extracted and classified into one of nine cognitive measures domains: executive functioning tasks, everyday executive functioning tasks, subjective executive tasks rated by the patient, subjective executive tasks rated by proxy, working memory, speed of processing, long-term memory, instrumental activities of daily living and general mental health status questionnaires. A total of 21 publications, containing 19 separate treatment group samples were included in the final analyses. Significantly positive small to moderate effect sizes were observed in all cognitive measure domains (except speed of processing) with effects maintained at follow-up assessments for all followed-up outcome measures, except for subjective ratings by patients and proxy. The analysis suggests that GMT is an effective intervention, leading to moderate improvements in executive functions that are usually maintained at follow-up.

Cognitive rehabilitation and mindfulness in multiple sclerosis (REMIND-MS): a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Background

Cognitive problems frequently occur in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and profoundly affect their quality of life. So far, the best cognitive treatment options for MS patients are a matter of debate. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness of two promising non-pharmacological treatments: cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CRT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). Furthermore, this study aims to gain additional knowledge about the aetiology of cognitive problems among MS patients, since this may help to develop and guide effective cognitive treatments.

Methods/design

In a dual-centre, single-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT), 120 MS patients will be randomised into one of three parallel groups: CRT, MBCT or enhanced treatment as usual (ETAU). Both CRT and MBCT consist of a structured 9-week program. ETAU consists of one appointment with an MS specialist nurse. Measurements will be performed at baseline, post-intervention and 6 months after the interventions. The primary outcome measure is the level of subjective cognitive complaints. Secondary outcome measures are objective cognitive function, functional brain network measures (using magnetoencephalography), psychological symptoms, well-being, quality of life and daily life functioning.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this will be the first RCT that investigates the effect of MBCT on cognitive function among MS patients. In addition, studying the effect of CRT on cognitive function may provide direction to the contradictory evidence that is currently available. This study will also provide information on changes in functional brain networks in relation to cognitive function. To conclude, this study may help to understand and treat cognitive problems among MS patients.

Trial registration

This trial was prospectively registered at the Dutch Trial Registration (number NTR6459, registered on 31 May 2017).

The influence of computer-based cognitive flexibility training on subjective cognitive well-being after stroke: A multi-center randomized controlled trial

Background

Stroke can result in cognitive complaints that can have a large impact on quality of life long after its occurrence. A number of computer-based training programs have been developed with the aim to improve cognitive functioning. Most studies investigating their efficacy used only objective outcome measures, whereas a reduction of subjective cognitive complaints may be equally important for improving quality of life. A few studies used subjective outcome measures but were inconclusive, partly due to methodological shortcomings such as lack of proper active and passive control groups.

Objective

The aim of the current study was to investigate whether computer-based cognitive flexibility training can improve subjective cognitive functioning and quality of life after stroke.

Methods

We performed a randomized controlled double blind trial (RCT). Adults (30–80 years old) who had a stroke 3 months to 5 years ago, were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 38), an active control group (i.e., mock training; n = 35), or a waiting list control group (n = 24). The intervention and mock training consisted of 58 half-hour sessions within 12 weeks. The primary subjective outcome measures were cognitive functioning (Cognitive Failure Questionnaire), executive functioning (Dysexecutive Functioning Questionnaire), quality of life (Short Form Health Survey), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL; Lawton & Brody IADL scale), and participation in society (Utrecht Scale for Evaluation of Rehabilitation-Participation). Secondary subjective outcome measures were recovery after stroke, depressive symptoms (Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale—depression subscale), fatigue (Checklist Individual Strength—Fatigue subscale), and subjective cognitive improvement (exit list). Finally, a proxy of the participant rated the training effects in subjective cognitive functioning, subjective executive functioning, and IADL.

Results and conclusions

All groups improved on the two measures of subjective cognitive functioning and subjective executive functioning, but not on the other measures. These cognitive and executive improvements remained stable 4 weeks after training completion. However, the intervention group did not improve more than the two control groups. This suggests that improvement was due to training-unspecific effects. The proxies did not report any improvements. We, therefore, conclude that the computer-based cognitive flexibility training did not improve subjective cognitive functioning or quality of life after stroke.

The development and evaluation of a web-based programme to support problem-solving skills following brain injury

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Cognitive impairments following brain injury, including difficulty with problem solving, can pose significant barriers to successful community reintegration. Problem-solving strategy training is well-supported in the cognitive rehabilitation literature. However, limitations in insurance reimbursement have resulted in fewer services to train such skills to mastery and to support generalization of those skills into everyday environments. The purpose of this project was to develop and evaluate an integrated, web-based programme, ProSolv, which uses a small number of coaching sessions to support problem solving in everyday life following brain injury.

METHOD

We used participatory action research to guide the iterative development, usability testing, and within-subject pilot testing of the ProSolv programme. The finalized programme was then evaluated in a between-subjects group study and a non-experimental single case study.

RESULTS

Results were mixed across studies. Participants demonstrated that it was feasible to learn and use the ProSolv programme for support in problem solving. They highly recommended the programme to others and singled out the importance of the coach. Limitations in app design were cited as a major reason for infrequent use of the app outside of coaching sessions.

CONCLUSIONS

Results provide mixed evidence regarding the utility of web-based mobile apps, such as ProSolv to support problem solving following brain injury. Implications for Rehabilitation People with cognitive impairments following brain injury often struggle with problem solving in everyday contexts. Research supports problem solving skills training following brain injury. Assistive technology for cognition (smartphones, selected apps) offers a means of supporting problem solving for this population. This project demonstrated the feasibility of a web-based programme to address this need.

The Neuropsychology of Traumatic Brain Injury: Looking Back, Peering Ahead

The past 50 years have been a period of exciting progress in neuropsychological research on traumatic brain injury (TBI). Neuropsychologists and neuropsychological testing have played a critical role in these advances. This study looks back at three major scientific advances in research on TBI that have been critical in pushing the field forward over the past several decades: The advent of modern neuroimaging; the recognition of the importance of non-injury factors in determining recovery from TBI; and the growth of cognitive rehabilitation. Thanks to these advances, we now have a better understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI and how recovery from the injury is also shaped by pre-injury, comorbid, and contextual factors, and we also have increasing evidence that active interventions, including cognitive rehabilitation, can help to promote better outcomes. The study also peers ahead to discern two important directions that seem destined to influence research on TBI over the next 50 years: the development of large, multi-site observational studies and randomized controlled trials, bolstered by international research consortia and the adoption of common data elements; and attempts to translate research into health care and health policy by the application of rigorous methods drawn from implementation science. Future research shaped by these trends should provide critical evidence regarding the outcomes of TBI and its treatment, and should help to disseminate and implement the knowledge gained from research to the betterment of the quality of life of persons with TBI. (JINS, 2017, 23, 806-817).

Cognitive remediation improves executive functions, self-regulation and quality of life in residents of a substance use disorder therapeutic community

BACKGROUND

Executive dysfunction is common in substance use disorder (SUD) populations and hinders treatment. We previously found that 50% of residents in SUD therapeutic communities had been hospitalized for head injuries; this was a significant determinant of cognitive impairment. The current study aimed to establish whether cognitive remediation improves executive functions (EFs) and self-regulation in an ecologically valid sample of female residents attending SUD therapeutic community treatment, including those with past head injuries and psychiatric comorbidities.

METHODS

Controlled sequential groups design with residents (N=33, all female) receiving treatment as usual (TAU). The intervention group (n=16) completed four weeks of cognitive remediation (CR) and the control, TAU only (n=17). Outcome measures assessed pre- and post-intervention included both performance- and inventory-based measures of EFs, and self-reported self-regulation and quality of life.

RESULTS

CR relative to TAU significantly improved performance-based assessment of inhibition (Color-Word Interference Test; F=4.29, p=0.047), inventory-based assessment of EFs (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function - Adult Version: Global Executive Composite; F=6.38, p=0.017), impulsivity (Barratt Impulsiveness Scale; F=4.61, p=0.040), self-control (Brief Self-Control Scale; F=5.53, p=0.026), and quality of life (Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire - Short Form; F=7.68, p=0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that CR improves EFs in a heterogeneous sample of female residents in therapeutic community SUD treatment. Future research may explore the possibility of tailoring CR interventions for various SUD subgroups.

Neuropsychology of traumatic brain injury: An expert overview

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious healthcare problem, and this report is a selective review of recent findings on the epidemiology, pathophysiology and neuropsychological impairments following TBI. Patients who survive moderate-to-severe TBI frequently suffer from a wide range of cognitive deficits and behavioral changes due to diffuse axonal injury. These deficits include slowed information-processing and impaired long-term memory, attention, working memory, executive function, social cognition and self-awareness. Mental fatigue is frequently also associated and can exacerbate the consequences of neuropsychological deficits. Personality and behavioral changes can include combinations of impulsivity and apathy. Even mild TBI raises specific problems: while most patients recover within a few weeks or months, a minority of patients may suffer from long-lasting symptoms (post-concussion syndrome). The pathophysiology of such persistent problems remains a subject of debate, but seems to be due to both injury-related and non-injury-related factors.

Moderators, mediators and nonspecific predictors of outcome after cognitive rehabilitation of executive functions in a randomised controlled trial

Moderators, mediators and nonspecific predictors of treatment after cognitive rehabilitation of executive functions in a randomised controlled trial Objective: To explore moderators, mediators and nonspecific predictors of executive functioning after cognitive rehabilitation in a randomised controlled trial, comparing Goal Management Training (GMT) with an active psycho-educative control-intervention, in patients with chronic acquired brain injury.

METHODS

Seventy patients with executive dysfunction were randomly allocated to GMT (n = 33) or control (n = 37). Outcome measures were established by factor-analysis and included cognitive executive complaints, emotional dysregulation and psychological distress.

RESULTS

Higher age and IQ emerged as nonspecific predictors. Verbal memory and planning ability at baseline moderated cognitive executive complaints, while planning ability at six-month follow-up mediated all three outcome measures. Inhibitory cognitive control emerged as a unique GMT specific mediator. A general pattern regardless of intervention was identified; higher levels of self-reported cognitive-and executive-symptoms of emotional dysregulation and psychological distress at six-month follow-up mediated less improvement across outcome factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of treatment effects were nonspecific to intervention, probably underscoring the variables' general contribution to outcome of cognitive rehabilitation interventions. Interventions targeting specific cognitive domains, such as attention or working memory, need to take into account the patients' overall cognitive and emotional self-perceived functioning. Future studies should investigate the identified predictors further, and also consider other predictor candidates.

Cognitive rehabilitation for adults with traumatic brain injury to improve occupational outcomes

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment in people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) could affect multiple facets of their daily functioning. Cognitive rehabilitation brings about clinically significant improvement in certain cognitive skills. However, it is uncertain if these improved cognitive skills lead to betterments in other key aspects of daily living. We evaluated whether cognitive rehabilitation for people with TBI improves return to work, independence in daily activities, community integration and quality of life.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of cognitive rehabilitation on return to work, independence in daily activities, community integration (occupational outcomes) and quality of life in people with traumatic brain injury, and to determine which cognitive rehabilitation strategy better achieves these outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library; 2017, Issue 3), MEDLINE (OvidSP), Embase (OvidSP), PsycINFO (OvidSP), and clinical trials registries up to 30 March 2017.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We identified all available randomized controlled trials of cognitive rehabilitation compared with any other non-pharmacological intervention for people with TBI. We included studies that reported at least one outcome related to : return to work, independence in activities of daily living (ADL), community integration and quality of life.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials. We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We evaluated heterogeneity among the included studies and performed meta-analysis only when we could include more than one study in a comparison. We used the online computer programme GRADEpro to assess the quality of evidence, and generate 'Summary of findings' tables.

MAIN RESULTS

We included nine studies with 790 participants. Three trials (160 participants) compared cognitive rehabilitation versus no treatment, four trials (144 participants) compared cognitive rehabilitation versus conventional treatment, one trial (120 participants) compared hospital-based cognitive rehabilitation versus home programme and one trial (366 participants) compared one cognitive strategy versus another. Among the included studies, we judged three to be of low risk of bias.There was no difference between cognitive rehabilitation and no intervention in return to work (risk ratio (RR) 1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74 to 4.39, 1 study; very low-quality evidence). There was no difference between biweekly cognitive rehabilitation for eight weeks and no treatment in community integration (Sydney Psychosocial Reintegration Scale): mean difference (MD) -2.90, 95% CI -12.57 to 6.77, 1 study; low-quality evidence). There was no difference in quality of life between cognitive rehabilitation and no intervention immediately following the 12-week intervention(MD 0.30, 95% CI -0.18 to 0.78, 1 study; low-quality evidence). No study reported effects on independence in ADL.There was no difference between cognitive rehabilitation and conventional treatment in return to work status at six months' follow-up in one study (RR 1.43, 95% CI 0.87 to 2.33; low-quality evidence); independence in ADL at three to four weeks' follow-up in two studies (standardized mean difference (SMD) -0.01, 95% CI -0.62 to 0.61; very low-quality evidence); community integration at three weeks' to six months' follow-up in three studies (Community Integration Questionnaire: MD 0.05, 95% CI -1.51 to 1.62; low-quality evidence) and quality of life at six months' follow-up in one study (Perceived Quality of Life scale: MD 6.50, 95% CI -2.57 to 15.57; moderate-quality evidence).For active duty military personnel with moderate-to-severe closed head injury, there was no difference between eight weeks of cognitive rehabilitation administered as a home programme and hospital-based cognitive rehabilitation in achieving return to work at one year' follow-up in one study (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.05; moderate-quality evidence). The study did not report effects on independence in ADL, community integration or quality of life.There was no difference between one cognitive rehabilitation strategy (cognitive didactic) and another (functional experiential) for adult veterans or active duty military service personnel with moderate-to-severe TBI (one study with 366 participants and one year' follow-up) on return to work (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.46; moderate-quality evidence), or on independence in ADL (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.08; low-quality evidence). The study did not report effects on community integration or quality of life.None of the studies reported adverse effects of cognitive rehabilitation.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient good-quality evidence to support the role of cognitive rehabilitation when compared to no intervention or conventional rehabilitation in improving return to work, independence in ADL, community integration or quality of life in adults with TBI. There is moderate-quality evidence that cognitive rehabilitation provided as a home programme is similar to hospital-based cognitive rehabilitation in improving return to work status among active duty military personnel with moderate-to-severe TBI. Moderate-quality evidence suggests that one cognitive rehabilitation strategy (cognitive didactic) is no better than another (functional experiential) in achieving return to work in veterans or military personnel with TBI.