"Train Your Brain" Cognitive Intervention Group Program for Singaporean Older Adult Patients With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Feasibility Study

Cognitive training for older prisoners: a qualitative analysis of prisoners' and staff members' perceptions

Introduction

Correctional institutions are challenged by increasing numbers of older prisoners. Existing literature highlights the vulnerability of this group that is reflected by various somatic and mental health issues including cognitive dysfunctions. Although cognitive training studies in various target groups of older people have been conducted, there is lack of data regarding cognitive training in older prisoners. A structured cognitive group training program ("NEUROvitalis Prison") with 12 weekly sessions was offered to male prisoners in Germany.

Methods

Post intervention an exploratory qualitative study was conducted. Prisoners (N = 18) and staff (N = 4) perspectives were explored by conducting face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Audiotaped data were fully transcribed and deductive-inductive content analyses applied.

Results

Both the prisoners and the staff perceived the cognitive training as very positive and stimulating. Moreover, the importance of the training was pronounced in terms of an increase in self-esteem and understanding of cognition and aging in the prisoners.

Discussion

Our data indicate that cognitive training may be a feasible and valuable intervention for older prisoners that will be appreciated by both inmates and staff. The qualitative data provide substantial insight into the experiences with the applied cognitive training program. Moreover, valuable modifications for future conduct can be derived.

Train-your-brain program to reduce depression, anxiety, and stress in stroke survivors: a pilot community-based cognitive intervention study

Introduction

Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, and it often results in depression, anxiety, stress, and cognitive impairment in survivors. There is a lack of community-based cognitive interventions for stroke survivors. This pilot single trial aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and perceived effectiveness of a community-based cognitive intervention program called Train-Your-Brain (TYB) for stroke survivors and caregivers. The study focused on improvements in emotional and psychological well-being, as well as cognitive functioning.

Methods

A quasi-experimental design was used in this study. A total of 48 participants were recruited and assessed using Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale - 21 items (DASS-21), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Symbol Digits Modality Test (SDMT) before and after the intervention. The TYB program consisted of nine sessions and was conducted via the Zoom software application. Participants provided feedback on the program, highlighting areas for improvement.

Results

Twenty-seven stroke survivors and 21 caregivers completed the program. Participants expressed high satisfaction with the TYB program but recommended avoiding assessments in December and customizing the program for stroke survivors and caregivers. Stroke survivors showed significant improvements in depression and stress scores, while caregivers experienced no significant improvements after the program. While there was a slight improvement in stroke survivors' cognitive scores after the program, it was not statistically significant. Caregivers, however, experienced a significant decline in cognitive scores.

Discussion

The TYB program provided group support and validation, resulting in improved mood and reduced stress among stroke survivors. Cultural collectivism played a significant role in fostering group cohesion. However, the program's limited focus on caregivers and timing of assessments during the December holidays may have affected the outcomes. The TYB program demonstrated feasibility and potential effectiveness in alleviating psychological distress and enhancing cognitive function among stroke survivors. Future research should explore long-term effects, larger sample sizes, and non-English-speaking populations to enhance generalizability. Tailored interventions for caregivers are necessary.