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Gómez-Soria I, Ferreira C, Oliván-Blázquez B, Aguilar-Latorre A, Calatayud E. Effects of cognitive stimulation program on cognition and mood in older adults, stratified by cognitive levels: A randomized controlled trial. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2023; 110:104984. [PMID: 36921506 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.104984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE RESEARCH Cognitive stimulation (CS) is defined as activities that involve cognitive processing, usually conducted in a social context and often in a group. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a personalized-adapted CS program in older adults on global cognition, neuropsychological constructs, activities of daily living (ADLs), and mood. MATERIALS AND METHODS The randomized controlled single-blind trial involving 337 participants (235 women and 102 men) ≥ 65 years of age in a Primary Care centre classified participants into 4 groups: 101 for the no deterioration (ND) group; 100 for the subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) group; 108 for the level deterioration (LD) group and 28 for the moderate deterioration group. The intervention consisted of a personalized CS adapted program for 10 weeks. Follow-up assessments were conducted post-intervention, and at 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome was global cognition measured by the Spanish version of the Mini-Mental State Examination. The secondary outcomes were measured by the Barthel Index, the Lawton and Brody Scale, the Goldberg Questionnaire (anxiety sub-scale) and the abbreviated Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale. RESULTS The intervention showed a tendency of improvement on global cognition and different cognitive functions for groups with no deterioration or level deterioration. The group with moderate deterioration improved in anxiety. CONCLUSIONS The findings demonstrated benefits in global cognition, different cognitive functions, semantic fluency, IADLs and anxiety. The most benefits are given in the intermediate groups, SCI, and LD. Moreover, the intervention works by increasing the benefits in the different phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Gómez-Soria
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), building CIBA, Avda. San Juan Bosco, 13, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Chelo Ferreira
- Department of Applied Mathematics and IUMA, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Bárbara Oliván-Blázquez
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), building CIBA, Avda. San Juan Bosco, 13, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Psychology and Sociology, Faculty of Social and Labor Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alejandra Aguilar-Latorre
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), building CIBA, Avda. San Juan Bosco, 13, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Estela Calatayud
- Department of Physiatry and Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), building CIBA, Avda. San Juan Bosco, 13, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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Bender AR, Ganguli A, Meiring M, Hampstead BM, Driver CC. Dynamic modeling of practice effects across the healthy aging-Alzheimer’s disease continuum. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:911559. [PMID: 35966791 PMCID: PMC9366308 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.911559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Standardized tests of learning and memory are sensitive to changes associated with both aging and superimposed neurodegenerative diseases. Unfortunately, repeated behavioral test administration can be confounded by practice effects (PE), which may obscure declines in level of abilities and contribute to misdiagnoses. Growing evidence, however, suggests PE over successive longitudinal measurements may differentially predict cognitive status and risk for progressive decline associated with aging, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia. Thus, when viewed as a reflection of neurocognitive plasticity, PE may reveal residual abilities that can add to our understanding of age- and disease-related changes in learning and memory. The present study sought to evaluate differences in PE and verbal recall in a clinically characterized aging cohort assessed on multiple occasions over 3 years. Participants included 256 older adults recently diagnosed as cognitively unimpaired (CU; n = 126), or with MCI of amnestic (n = 65) or non-amnestic MCI (n = 2085), and multi-domain amnestic dementia of the Alzheimer’s type (DAT; n = 45). We applied a continuous time structural equation modeling (ctsem) approach to verbal recall performance on the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test in order to distinguish PE from individual occasion performance, coupled random changes, age trends, and differing measurement quality. Diagnoses of MCI and dementia were associated with lower recall performance on all trials, reduced PE gain per occasion, and differences in non-linear dynamic parameters. Practice self-feedback is a dynamic measure of the decay or acceleration in PE process changes over longitudinal occasions. As with PE and mean recall, estimated practice self-feedback followed a gradient from positive in CU participants to null in participants with diagnosed MCI and negative for those with dementia diagnoses. Evaluation of sensitivity models showed this pattern of variation in PE was largely unmodified by differences in age, sex, or educational attainment. These results show dynamic modeling of PE from longitudinal performance on standardized learning and memory tests can capture multiple aspects of behavioral changes in MCI and dementia. The present study provides a new perspective for modeling longitudinal change in verbal learning in clinical and cognitive aging research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Bender
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, College of Natural Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Andrew R. Bender,
| | - Arkaprabha Ganguli
- Department of Statistics and Probability, College of Natural Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Melinda Meiring
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, College of Natural Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Benjamin M. Hampstead
- Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Mental Health Service, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Research Program on Cognition and Neuromodulation Based Intervention, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Charles C. Driver
- Institute of Education, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Educational Evaluation, Associated Institute at the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Cha E, Ahn HJ, Kang W, Jung KI, Ohn SH, Bashir S, Yoo WK. Correlations between COMT polymorphism and brain structure and cognition in elderly subjects: An observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e29214. [PMID: 35550471 PMCID: PMC9276462 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000029214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene has been noted to play an important role in individual variations in the aging process. We investigated whether COMT polymorphism could influence cognition related to white matter networks. More specifically, we examined whether methionine (Met) allele loading is associated with better individual cognitive performance. Thirty-four healthy elderly participants were recruited; each participant's COMT genotype was determined, and Korean version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores and a diffusion tensor image were obtained for all participants. The Met carrier group showed significantly lower mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity, and radial diffusivity values for the right hippocampus, thalamus, uncinate fasciculus, and left caudate nucleus than the valine homozygote group. The Met carrier group also scored higher for executive function and attention on the Korean version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Based on these results, we can assume that the COMT Met allele has a protective effect on cognitive decline contributing to individual differences in cognitive function in late life period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunsil Cha
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jung Ahn
- Hallym Institute of Translational Genomics & Bioinformatics, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonil Kang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Ik Jung
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Hoon Ohn
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Shahid Bashir
- Neuroscience Center, King Fahad Specialist Hospital Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Woo-Kyoung Yoo
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Republic of Korea
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Seccomandi B, Agbedjro D, Bell M, Keefe RSE, Keshavan M, Galderisi S, Fiszdon J, Mucci A, Cavallaro R, Ojeda N, Peña J, Müller D, Roder V, Wykes T, Cella M. Exploring the role of age as a moderator of cognitive remediation for people with schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2021; 228:29-35. [PMID: 33429151 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2020.11.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While Cognitive Remediation (CR) is effective in reducing cognitive and functioning difficulties in people with schizophrenia, there is variability in treatment response. Previous research suggested that participants' age may be a significant moderator of CR response. AIM To examine the impact of participants' age on CR outcomes. METHOD Individual participant data were accessed from fourteen CR randomised controlled trials. We tested the moderating effect of participants' age on cognitive and functioning outcomes using multivariate linear models. RESULTS Data from 1084 people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia were considered. Participants had a mean age of 36.6 years (SD 11), with 11.6 years of education (SD 2.8), and an average duration of illness of 13.5 years (SD 10.7). Multivariate models showed that participants' age, when considered as a continuous variable, was not a significant moderator of treatment effect for cognitive and functioning outcomes. However, when participants were split by median age, younger participants showed higher gains in executive functions following CR compared to older participants (p=0.02). CONCLUSION These results suggest that participants' age does not moderate most CR outcomes. However, larger age differences may influence the effect of CR on executive function. This may suggest some adaptation of CR practice according to participants' age. These findings inform the CR personalisation agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Seccomandi
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Deborah Agbedjro
- Department of Biostatistics & Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Morris Bell
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Richard S E Keefe
- Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Matcheri Keshavan
- Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Silvana Galderisi
- Department of Psychiatry, Seconda Universita degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Joanna Fiszdon
- Department of Psychology, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Armida Mucci
- Department of Psychiatry, Seconda Universita degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Cavallaro
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Natalia Ojeda
- Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Javier Peña
- Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Daniel Müller
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Volker Roder
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Til Wykes
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Matteo Cella
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London SE5 8AZ, UK
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Sánchez-Izquierdo M, Fernández-Ballesteros R. Cognition in Healthy Aging. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:962. [PMID: 33499254 PMCID: PMC7908458 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18030962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The study of cognitive change across a life span, both in pathological and healthy samples, has been heavily influenced by developments in cognitive psychology as a theoretical paradigm, neuropsychology and other bio-medical fields; this alongside the increase in new longitudinal and cohort designs, complemented in the last decades by the evaluation of experimental interventions. Here, a review of aging databases was conducted, looking for the most relevant studies carried out on cognitive functioning in healthy older adults. The aim was to review not only longitudinal, cross-sectional or cohort studies, but also by intervention program evaluations. The most important studies, searching for long-term patterns of stability and change of cognitive measures across a life span and in old age, have shown a great range of inter-individual variability in cognitive functioning changes attributed to age. Furthermore, intellectual functioning in healthy individuals seems to decline rather late in life, if ever, as shown in longitudinal studies where age-related decline of cognitive functioning occurs later in life than indicated by cross-sectional studies. The longitudinal evidence and experimental trials have shown the benefits of aerobic physical exercise and an intellectually engaged lifestyle, suggesting that bio-psycho-socioenvironmental factors concurrently with age predict or determine both positive or negative change or stability in cognition in later life.
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Sousa S, Teixeira L, Paúl C. Assessment of Major Neurocognitive Disorders in Primary Health Care: Predictors of Individual Risk Factors. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1413. [PMID: 32625155 PMCID: PMC7313377 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Major Neurocognitive Disorders describe the symptoms of a large group of diseases causing a progressive decline in individual’s functioning. It is an umbrella term describing a decline in memory, intellectual ability, reasoning, and social skills, as well as changes in normal emotional reactions. The general practitioner is instrumental in the early diagnosis of Major Neurocognitive Disorder. Individual risk factors act as contributing variables affecting the probability of someone developing a Major Neurocognitive Disorder and may be considered predictive factors. This study aimed (i) to show the utility of using the Global Deterioration Scale in primary health care settings as a measure to assess the stage of cognitive function for individuals identified with Major Neurocognitive Disorders and (ii) to identify predictors of severe Major Neurocognitive Disorders. Potential predictors of Major Neurocognitive Disorders considered in this study were: sex, age, years of education, social isolation, hearing impairment, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, physical activity, hand strength, and nutritional status. The sample comprised 250 adults, 30.4% were classified as having probable Major Neurocognitive Disorder. The variables significantly associated with probable Major Neurocognitive Disorder were age, years of education, hearing impairment, cardiovascular disease, hand strength, nutritional status, and physical activity. In the multivariable model, only age, education, physical activity and hand strength remained significant predictors of probable Major Neurocognitive Disorder. The Global Deterioration Scale seems to be a usefull instrument in primary healthcare settings, as it guides the general practitioner in observing the patients’ cognitive functioning. Advanced age, lower education, lower hand strength and absence of physical activities should be taken into account as they increase the chance of severe Major Neurocognitive Disorders. Primary health care providers, including general practitioners are very important in the diagnosis and follow up of Major Neurocognitive Disorder. The general practitioner is in most cases the patients’ first and for many patients the only contact, thus having a critical role in evaluating with caution what is part of normal or pathological aging, and the individual factors that can increase the likelihood of developing Major Neurocognitive Disorder to further support patients in the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Sousa
- Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences - University of Porto (ICBAS.UP), Porto, Portugal.,Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS.ICBAS), Porto, Portugal.,Office on Ageing Issues 50+ (CA50+), Porto, Portugal
| | - Laetitia Teixeira
- Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences - University of Porto (ICBAS.UP), Porto, Portugal.,Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS.ICBAS), Porto, Portugal
| | - Constança Paúl
- Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences - University of Porto (ICBAS.UP), Porto, Portugal.,Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS.ICBAS), Porto, Portugal.,Office on Ageing Issues 50+ (CA50+), Porto, Portugal
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7
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Mulligan BP, Segalowitz SJ, Hofer SM, Smart CM. A multi-timescale, multi-method perspective on older adult neurocognitive adaptability. Clin Neuropsychol 2020; 34:643-677. [DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2020.1723706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bryce P. Mulligan
- Department of Psychology, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Institute on Aging & Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sidney J. Segalowitz
- Psychology Department, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
- The Jack and Nora Walker Centre for Lifespan Development Research, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Scott M. Hofer
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Institute on Aging & Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Colette M. Smart
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Institute on Aging & Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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Basak C, Qin S, O'Connell MA. Differential effects of cognitive training modules in healthy aging and mild cognitive impairment: A comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Psychol Aging 2020; 35:220-249. [PMID: 32011155 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis was designed to compare the effectiveness of 2 cognitive training modules, single-component training, which targets 1 specific cognitive ability, versus multicomponent training, which trains multiple cognitive abilities, on both trained abilities (near transfer) and untrained abilities (far transfer) in older adults. The meta-analysis also assessed whether individual differences in mental status interacted with the extent of transfer. Eligible randomized controlled trials (215 training studies) examined the immediate effects of cognitive training in either healthy aging (HA) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Results yielded an overall net-gain effect size (g) for the cognitive training of 0.28 (p < .001). These effects were similar across mental status and training modules, and were significant for both near (g = 0.37) and far (g = 0.22) transfer. Although all training modules yielded significant near transfer, only a few yielded significant far transfer. Single-component training of executive functions was most effective on near and far transfer, with processing speed training improving everyday functioning. All modules of multicomponent training (specific and nonspecific) yielded significant near and far transfer, including everyday functioning. Training effects on cognition were moderated by educational attainment and number of cognitive outcomes, but only in HA. These findings suggest that, in older adults, all modules of multicomponent training are more effective in engendering near and far transfer, including everyday functioning, when compared with single-component training modules. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Navarro E, Calero MD. Cognitive Plasticity in Young-Old Adults and Old-Old Adults and Its Relationship with Successful Aging. Geriatrics (Basel) 2018; 3:geriatrics3040076. [PMID: 31011111 PMCID: PMC6371126 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics3040076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The general objective of this study was to analyze cognitive plasticity as a variable related to successful aging in a group of young-old adults and old-old adults using the Auditory Verbal Learning Test—Learning Potential (AVLT-LP). Method: A total of 569 persons, with mean age 76.67 years (379 between the ages of 65 and 80 years, and 190 older than age 80). They were assessed with a socio-health questionnaire, with the AVLT-LP, and with the Spanish version of the Mini Mental State Examination. Results: The results showed significant differences on the test, in favor of the younger group, while the over 80 group gave poorer performance and showed less cognitive plasticity. With relation to gender, slight differences appeared in favor of the women, on the first four test trials, but not on the last two, nor in delayed recall or cognitive plasticity. As for cognitive status, the results showed significantly better task performance levels in healthy elders, as well as greater plasticity. Nonetheless, certain persons with high plasticity were also found among those with cognitive impairment. Conclusions: The data obtained here offers evidence for the importance of cognitive plasticity in elders and its relation to longevity and successful aging. It also provides information about the influence of variables like age, gender and cognitive status on a verbal memory and plasticity assessment task that is in wide use today.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Navarro
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment and Treatment, Faculty of Psychology, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - M Dolores Calero
- CIMCYC, Research Center on Mind, Brain and Behavior, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
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Sales A, Pitarque A, Escudero J, Satorres E, Meléndez JC. Can there be learning potential in Parkinson's disease? A comparison with healthy older adults. Dev Neuropsychol 2017; 42:460-469. [PMID: 29087214 DOI: 10.1080/87565641.2017.1391265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Patients with Parkinson's disease may show certain cognitive impairments, although it is unclear how these deficits can affect their learning potential. The study aims to use the testing-the-limits technique to compare the potential for cognitive plasticity in a group of Patients with Parkinson's disease (N = 33) and a group of healthy older adults (N = 33). Sixty-six participants performed verbal learning test to analyze the learning potential. Repeated-measures analysis of variance showed significant main effects of time, group, and the interaction. There is a lower learning potential in subjects with Parkinson's disease; however, those still maintain a certain capacity for learning and, therefore, for cognitive plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sales
- a Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology , University of Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - A Pitarque
- b Department of Methodology, Faculty of Psychology , University of Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - J Escudero
- c Department of Neurology , Consorcio Hospital General of Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - E Satorres
- a Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology , University of Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - J C Meléndez
- a Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology , University of Valencia , Valencia , Spain
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Legdeur N, Binnekade T, Otten R, Badissi M, Scheltens P, Visser P, Maier A. Cognitive functioning of individuals aged 90 years and older without dementia: A systematic review. Ageing Res Rev 2017; 36:42-49. [PMID: 28284872 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2017.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Revised: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Reference values to define cognitive impairment in individuals aged 90 years and older are lacking. We systematically reviewed the literature to determine the level of cognitive functioning of individuals aged 90 years and older without dementia. METHODS The search identified 3972 articles of which 20 articles were included in the review. We calculated mean cognitive test scores and cut-off scores for cognitive tests published in two or more articles. RESULTS The mean cognitive test scores (SD)/cut-off scores for individuals aged 90 years and older without dementia of the five most commonly used cognitive tests were: MMSE: 26.6 (2.6)/23.3 points, Digit Span forward: 5.9 (1.8)/3.6 digits, Digit Span backward: 4.4 (1.6)/2.4 digits, TMT-A: 85.8 (42.5)/140.2s and TMT-B: 220.3 (99.2)/347.3s. DISCUSSION We provided mean cognitive test scores and cut-off scores that will improve the diagnostic process of cognitive impairment in individuals aged 90 years and older.
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Thomas KR, Puig O, Twamley EW. Age as a moderator of change following compensatory cognitive training in individuals with severe mental illnesses. Psychiatr Rehabil J 2017; 40:70-78. [PMID: 27547856 PMCID: PMC5322254 DOI: 10.1037/prj0000206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored whether age moderated cognitive, symptom, and functional changes over a 12-week compensatory cognitive training (CCT) intervention for participants with severe mental illnesses. CCT focused on the cognitive domains of attention, learning, prospective memory, and executive functioning, often impaired in this population. METHOD Seventy-seven unemployed individuals (46 participants with severe mood disorders and 31 participants with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder; mean age = 44 years) received CCT for 12 weeks in the context of a supported employment program. Participants were administered cognitive, symptom severity, and functional measures at baseline and 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups, as well as at 18 and 24 months for symptom/functional measures. Mixed effects models, controlling for diagnosis, examined whether age impacted the trajectories of change following CCT. RESULTS Analyses showed several significant time by age interactions; younger participants improved more over time on category fluency, β = -.280, t(42.10) = -2.76, p = .008, and financial capacity (UCSD Performance-Based Skills Assessment), β = -.194, t(54.02) = -2.21, p = .031, whereas older participants showed greater reduction in positive symptom severity (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale), β = -.109, t(78.35) = -2.34, p = .022, and less functional decline on the Independent Living Skills Survey, β = .118, t(109.77) = 2.05, p = .043. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Age moderated the effects of CCT over time on measures of cognition, symptom severity, and functioning. Younger participants improved on objective measures of verbal processing speed and financial capacity, whereas older participants showed reduced positive symptom severity and less decline in self-reported daily functioning. These findings suggest that CCT may differentially benefit persons with severe mental illnesses depending on age. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey R Thomas
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida
| | - Olga Puig
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
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Mendoza-Ruvalcaba NM, Fernández-Ballesteros R. Effectiveness of the Vital Aging program to promote active aging in Mexican older adults. Clin Interv Aging 2016; 11:1631-1644. [PMID: 27881913 PMCID: PMC5115686 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s102930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Aging is not only a population phenomenon but also an experience and an individual reality. Vital Aging® is a program that considers active aging as the lifelong adaptation process of maximizing health and independence, physical and cognitive functioning, positive affect regulation and control, and social engagement. Through its different versions and editions, it has demonstrated being an effective program to promote active aging. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of the “face-to-face” and “combined” versions of the program to promote active aging in Mexican older adults trial. Methods Seventy-six older adults aged 60 years and over participated in a quasi-experimental study and were recruited in a senior center to participate in the two experimental conditions: Vital Aging face-to-face (VA-FF) (n=35) and Vital Aging combined (VA-C; multimedia/face-to-face) (n=15), and the remaining 26 adults were assigned to a control group. Pretest and posttest assessments were performed after the theoretical–practical intervention. Mean differences and size effects were calculated for estimating the effect of the program. Results At the end of the study, participants showed improvements in the active aging outcome measures. Positive effects were observed in the frequency of intellectual, cultural – artistic, and social activities, perceptions of aging, satisfaction with social relationships, and self-efficacy for aging. Additionally, those who participated in VA-FF showed better memory performance, meta-memory, and a trend to report less memory problems, while older persons in VA-C showed a trend to have better life satisfaction. No effects were observed in physical activity, frequency of social relationships, and subjective health. Conclusion Findings show that the Vital Aging program in face-to-face and combined versions encourages active aging in Mexican older persons. These results are in general similar to those found in editions performed in Spain, revealing its consistency as a cross-cultural practical initiative for promoting active aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neyda Ma Mendoza-Ruvalcaba
- Health Sciences Department, University of Guadalajara, University Center of Tonalá, Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico
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Duff K, Horn KP, Foster NL, Hoffman JM. Short-Term Practice Effects and Brain Hypometabolism: Preliminary Data from an FDG PET Study. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2016; 30:264-70. [PMID: 25908614 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acv018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Practice effects are improvements in cognitive test scores due to repeated exposure to the same tests. Typically viewed as error, short-term practice effects have been shown to provide valuable clinical information about diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment outcomes in older patients with mild cognitive impairments. This study examined short-term practice effects across one week and brain hypometabolism on fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) in 25 older adults (15 intact, 10 Mild Cognitive Impairment). Averaged cerebral brain metabolism on FDG PET was correlated with multiple cognitive scores at baseline in those with Mild Cognitive Impairment, and short-term practice effects accounted for additional variance in these same subjects. The relationship between brain metabolism and cognition (either at baseline or practice effects) was minimal in the intact individuals. Although needing replication in larger samples, short-term practice effects on tests of executive functioning and memory may provide valuable information about biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Duff
- Center for Alzheimer's Care, Imaging, and Research, Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Kevin P Horn
- Center for Quantitative Cancer Imaging, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Norman L Foster
- Center for Alzheimer's Care, Imaging, and Research, Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - John M Hoffman
- Center for Quantitative Cancer Imaging, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
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Ibarria M, Alegret M, Valero S, Morera A, Guitart M, Cañabate P, Moreno M, Lara S, Diego S, Hernández J, Tantinyà N, Vera M, Hernández I, Becker JT, Ruíz A, Boada M, Tárraga L. Beneficial Effects of an Integrated Psychostimulation Program in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 50:559-66. [PMID: 26757182 PMCID: PMC4745126 DOI: 10.3233/jad-150455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existing pharmacological treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) can only slow the progression of symptoms or delay admission to long-term care facilities. The beneficial effects of non-drug treatments are poorly studied. OBJECTIVE To describe the effects of an Integrated Psychostimulation Program (IPP) in patients with mild-moderate AD treated with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors; and to identify factors related to greater benefit of the IPP. METHODS 206 patients (mean age = 75.9 years; MMSE = 19.6) were evaluated before starting the IPP and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months later. Measures included: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Cognitive Subscale of Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-Cog), Rapid Disability Rating Scale (RDRS-2), and Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q). RESULTS Patients remained cognitively stable (MMSE/ADAS-Cog) for more than 6 months and significantly worsened at 9-month and 12-month follow-ups, without clinically significant functional changes (RDRS-2) or psychiatric symptoms(NPI-Q). The mean annual change on MMSE and ADAS-Cog were 2.06 and 3.56 points, respectively, lower than the annual decline demonstrated previously in similar patients (2.4 and 4.5, respectively). 42.7% of patients maintained or improved global cognitive scores between baseline and 12-month follow-up. The patients who maintained cognitive functions were older than those who did not (77.5 versus 74.7 years). CONCLUSIONS The IPP may be an effective treatment to maintain cognition, functionality, and psychiatric symptoms in AD patients pharmacologically treated, and older age seems to increase beneficial effects of IPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Ibarria
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Alegret
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Valero
- Department of Psychiatry. Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
- Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron -Institut de Recerca, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (VHIR-UAB), Spain
| | - Amèrica Morera
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
| | - Marina Guitart
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
| | - Pilar Cañabate
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariola Moreno
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Lara
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
| | - Susana Diego
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Hernández
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
| | - Natàlia Tantinyà
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
| | - Maribel Vera
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
| | - Isabel Hernández
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - James T. Becker
- Department of Psychiatry. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Agustín Ruíz
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Boada
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lluís Tárraga
- Alzheimer Center Educational. Day Care Centers of Fundació ACE. Barcelona. Spain
- Memory Clinic of Fundació ACE. Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades. Barcelona, Spain
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Mendoza-Ruvalcaba NM, Arias-Merino ED. "I am active": effects of a program to promote active aging. Clin Interv Aging 2015; 10:829-37. [PMID: 26005337 PMCID: PMC4427596 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s79511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Active aging involves a general lifestyle strategy that allows preservation of both physical and mental health during the aging process. "I am Active" is a program designed to promote active aging by increased physical activity, healthy nutritional habits, and cognitive functioning. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of this program. METHODS Sixty-four healthy adults aged 60 years or older were recruited from senior centers and randomly allocated to an experimental group (n=31) or a control group (n=33). Baseline, post-test, and 6-month follow-up assessments were performed after the theoretical-practical intervention. Effect sizes were calculated. RESULTS At the conclusion of the program, the experimental group showed significant improvement compared with the control group in the following domains: physical activity (falls risk, balance, flexibility, self-efficacy), nutrition (self-efficacy and nutritional status), cognitive performance (processing speed and self-efficacy), and quality of life (general, health and functionality, social and economic status). Although some declines were reported, improvements at follow-up remained in self-efficacy for physical activity, self-efficacy for nutrition, and processing speed, and participants had better nutritional status and quality of life overall. CONCLUSION Our findings show that this program promotes improvements in domains of active aging, mainly in self-efficacy beliefs as well as in quality of life in healthy elders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neyda Ma Mendoza-Ruvalcaba
- Health Sciences Department, University of Guadalajara, University Center of Tonala Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Elva Dolores Arias-Merino
- Public Health Department, University of Guadalajara, University Center of Health Sciences, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
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Caprara M, Fernández-Ballesteros R, Alessandri G. Promoting aging well: evaluation of Vital-Aging-Multimedia Program in Madrid, Spain. Health Promot Int 2015; 31:515-22. [PMID: 25784303 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/dav014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This article attests to the effectiveness of Vital Aging-Multimedia (VA-M, 'Vivir con Vitalidad-M'), a psycho-educational multimedia program designed to promote successful aging. The program was implemented over 3 months through 35 h of video lessons grouped into 15 thematic units addressing four domains of experience commonly associated with aging well: health and healthy habits, cognitive functioning, aging self-efficacy and well-being and social participation. In accordance with a quasi-experimental design, a total of 115 senior citizens (aged 54-82) participated: 73 subjects attended the VA-M, while 42 subjects with similar characteristics served as controls. All subjects were assessed before and after the program on target variables related to the above domains of functioning. Significant changes in most of the examined variables documented the positive effects of the program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariagiovanna Caprara
- Department of Psychology, Madrid Open University, Carretera de la Coruña (Vía de servicio no 15) Km. 38,500, Madrid 28400, Spain
| | | | - Guido Alessandri
- Department of Psychology, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyse the relationship between serum folate (SF), vitamin B12 and impaired cognitive function in the Chilean elderly. DESIGN We analysed the relationships between impaired cognitive function and age, SF (µg/l) and vitamin B12 (pg/ml) with Student's t test, as well as between impaired cognitive function and gender, educational level, residence area, diabetes and hypertension with the χ 2 test. Multiple logistic regressions with interactions were estimated to assess the impact of SF on impaired cognitive function according to these methods. SETTING Chile. SUBJECTS Older adults (>65 years, n 1051), drawn from representative households of a national prevalence study, assessed using the Modified Mini Mental Status Examination (MMMSE). Individuals with altered MMMSE scores (≤13 points) were sequentially assessed using the Pfeffer Functional Activities Questionnaire (PFAQ). RESULTS Multivariate models using the MMMSE demonstrated an increased risk of impaired cognitive function for seniors who had hypertension, diabetes and higher vitamin B12 levels. SF and its square (SF2) were statistically significant, indicating that this predictor of impaired cognitive function displays a U-shaped distribution. The interaction between SF and vitamin B12 was not statistically significant. Models using the MMMSE plus PFAQ suggested that urban residence decreased the risk of impaired cognitive function, whereas male gender, older age, vitamin B12 levels and hypertension increased this risk. The variables SF and SF2 and the SF × vitamin B12 interaction were statistically significant (P<0.05). The risk of impaired cognitive function depended on different combinations of SF and vitamin B12 levels. When SF was low, a one-unit increase in SF (1 µg/l) diminished the risk. When SF was elevated, a further increase in SF raised the risk, especially at low vitamin B12 levels. CONCLUSIONS The relationship between folate, vitamin B12 and impaired cognitive function warrants further study.
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Boosman H, Bovend'Eerdt TJH, Visser-Meily JMA, Nijboer TCW, van Heugten CM. Dynamic testing of learning potential in adults with cognitive impairments: A systematic review of methodology and predictive value. J Neuropsychol 2014; 10:186-210. [PMID: 25491903 DOI: 10.1111/jnp.12063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Dynamic testing includes procedures that examine the effects of brief training on test performance where pre- to post-training change reflects patients' learning potential. The objective of this systematic review was to provide clinicians and researchers insight into the concept and methodology of dynamic testing and to explore its predictive validity in adult patients with cognitive impairments. The following electronic databases were searched: PubMed, PsychINFO, and Embase/Medline. Of 1141 potentially relevant articles, 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. The mean methodological quality score was 4.6 of 8. Eleven different dynamic tests were used. The majority of studies used dynamic versions of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. The training mostly consisted of a combination of performance feedback, reinforcement, expanded instruction, or strategy training. Learning potential was quantified using numerical (post-test score, difference score, gain score, regression residuals) and categorical (groups) indices. In five of six longitudinal studies, learning potential significantly predicted rehabilitation outcome. Three of four studies supported the added value of dynamic testing over conventional testing in predicting rehabilitation outcome. This review provides preliminary support that dynamic tests can provide a valuable addition to conventional tests to assess patients' abilities. Although promising, there was a large variability in methods used for dynamic testing and, therefore, it remains unclear which dynamic testing methods are most appropriate for patients with cognitive impairments. More research is warranted to further evaluate and refine dynamic testing methodology and to further elucidate its predictive validity concerning rehabilitation outcomes relative to other cognitive and functional status indices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hileen Boosman
- Brain Center Rudolf Magnus and Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, The Netherlands
| | | | - Johanna M A Visser-Meily
- Brain Center Rudolf Magnus and Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, The Netherlands
| | - Tanja C W Nijboer
- Brain Center Rudolf Magnus and Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, The Netherlands.,Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline M van Heugten
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience and Maastricht University, Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, The Netherlands
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Validity of the dynamic Wisconsin Card Sorting Test for assessing learning potential in brain injury rehabilitation. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2014; 20:1034-44. [PMID: 25382229 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617714000897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The dynamic Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (dWCST) examines the effects of brief training on test performance where pre- to post-test change reflects learning potential. The objective was to examine the validity of the dWCST as a measure of learning potential in patients with acquired brain injury (ABI). A total of 104 patients with ABI completed the dWCST at rehabilitation admission. Performance of a subgroup (n=63) was compared to patients (n=28) who completed a repeated administration of the conventional WCST (rWCST). Furthermore, dWCST performance was compared between patients with ABI (n=63) and healthy controls (n=30) matched on gender, age, and education. Three learning potential indices were used: post-test score, gain score, and a group classification (decliners, poor learners, strong learners, high achievers). The median dWCST administration time was 30 min. The dWCST showed no floor or ceiling effects and the post-test and gain score were significantly intercorrelated. The pre-test score showed no significant associations with other neuropsychological tests. The learning potential indices were significantly associated with language and/or memory. In contrast to the dWCST group, the rWCST group showed no significant pre- to post-test improvement. There were significantly more poor learners in the rWCST group. Compared to controls, patients obtained similar gains, but significantly lower pre- and post-test scores for the dWCST. The ratio of poor learners between-groups was not significantly different. The results support the validity of the dWCST for assessing learning potential in patients with ABI. Further research is needed to investigate the predictive validity of the dWCST.
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Navarro-González E, Calero MD, Becerra-Reina D. [Trajectories of aging in a sample of elderly people: a longitudinal study]. Rev Esp Geriatr Gerontol 2014; 50:9-15. [PMID: 25200105 DOI: 10.1016/j.regg.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Revised: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The present study analyzes variables associated with different trajectories of aging, and the level of cognitive functioning in a sample of older adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS Although this work is part of a broader investigation where initially 141 people were assessed, this paper only discusses the cognitive functioning and cognitive development of 64 older people who have been followed up four years after the initial assessment, with a mean age of 83.84 years (age range 65 to 99 years). In the initial assessment all the participants were assessed with a psychological battery that included the MEC, the verbal fluency task FVS, a sustained attention task, a working memory test, a Quality of Life Questionnaire, a scale of dependency, and the AVLT-Learning Potential test. In the follow up assessment, participants have been assessed with the MEC, the verbal fluency task FVS, and the verbal memory test AVLT-PA. RESULTS the results show relatively stable trajectories of aging and that the variables that better predict cognitive evolution of the elderly are working memory and post-test score in the AVLT-LP. CONCLUSIONS Despite the time lapse between the two assessments and the age of the participants, older adults have remained relatively stable in their cognitive functioning, which in part contradicts the idea that--especially after 80 years--a general decline of cognitive functioning occurs in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Navarro-González
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamiento Psicológico, Facultad de Psicología, Granada, España.
| | - María Dolores Calero
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamiento Psicológico, Facultad de Psicología, Granada, España
| | - Dolores Becerra-Reina
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, España
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O'Sullivan M, Coen R, O'Hora D, Shiel A. Cognitive rehabilitation for mild cognitive impairment: developing and piloting an intervention. AGING NEUROPSYCHOLOGY AND COGNITION 2014; 22:280-300. [PMID: 24955493 DOI: 10.1080/13825585.2014.927818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This was an exploratory study, with the purpose of developing and piloting an intervention for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and their family members using cognitive rehabilitation. A case series design was used with pre- and post-intervention and 3-month follow-up outcome measures. Five participants (two males, three females; mean age 75 years) with a diagnosis of MCI attended the memory clinic with a family member. Intervention consisted of six to eight individual sessions of cognitive rehabilitation consisting of personalized interventions to address individually relevant goals delivered weekly. The main rehabilitation strategies utilized were external aids, personal diary, face-name association, relaxation, and encouraging participants to develop habits and routines. The primary outcome measure was goal attainment as assessed by Goal Attainment Scaling. Secondary outcome measures included measures of memory, anxiety, depression, and activities of daily living. Qualitative data were collected post-intervention by interview. Post-intervention 84% of the goals were attained, with 68% maintained at a 3-month follow-up. Mean anxiety and depression scores decreased during the intervention. No significant changes were recorded on a test of memory. The findings suggest that the strongest effect was in relation to compensatory strategies for prospective and episodic memory deficits. Feedback from participants during qualitative interviews indicated that they found strategies useful and implemented them in their daily routines. The findings support the use of a dyadic cognitive rehabilitation intervention for people with MCI and memory difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria O'Sullivan
- a Clinical Psychology Department , HSE South, St. Finbarr's Hospital , Cork , Ireland
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Hering A, Rendell PG, Rose NS, Schnitzspahn KM, Kliegel M. Prospective memory training in older adults and its relevance for successful aging. PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2014; 78:892-904. [PMID: 24744122 DOI: 10.1007/s00426-014-0566-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In research on cognitive plasticity, two training approaches have been established: (1) training of strategies to improve performance in a given task (e.g., encoding strategies to improve episodic memory performance) and (2) training of basic cognitive processes (e.g., working memory, inhibition) that underlie a range of more complex cognitive tasks (e.g., planning) to improve both the training target and the complex transfer tasks. Strategy training aims to compensate or circumvent limitations in underlying processes, while process training attempts to augment or to restore these processes. Although research on both approaches has produced some promising findings, results are still heterogeneous and the impact of most training regimes for everyday life is unknown. We, therefore, discuss recent proposals of training regimes aiming to improve prospective memory (i.e., forming and realizing delayed intentions) as this type of complex cognition is highly relevant for independent living. Furthermore, prospective memory is associated with working memory and executive functions and age-related decline is widely reported. We review initial evidence suggesting that both training regimes (i.e., strategy and/or process training) can successfully be applied to improve prospective memory. Conceptual and methodological implications of the findings for research on age-related prospective memory and for training research in general are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Hering
- Faculté de Psychologie et Sciences de l'Education, Université de Genève, 40, Boulevard du Pont-d'-Arve, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland,
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Cognitive plasticity as a moderator of functional dependency in elderly patients hospitalized for bone fractures. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2014; 48:22-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00391-014-0610-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Zealley B, de Grey AD. Commentary on Some Recent Theses Relevant to Combating Aging: June 2013. Rejuvenation Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1089/rej.2013.1446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Active aging promotion: results from the vital aging program. Curr Gerontol Geriatr Res 2013; 2013:817813. [PMID: 23476644 PMCID: PMC3580923 DOI: 10.1155/2013/817813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Active aging is one of the terms in the semantic network of aging well, together with others such as successful, productive, competent aging. All allude to the new paradigm in gerontology, whereby aging is considered from a positive perspective. Most authors in the field agree active aging is a multidimensional concept, embracing health, physical and cognitive fitness, positive affect and control, social relationships and engagement. This paper describes Vital Aging, an individual active aging promotion program implemented through three modalities: Life, Multimedia, and e-Learning. The program was developed on the basis of extensive evidence about individual determinants of active aging. The different versions of Vital Aging are described, and four evaluation studies (both formative and summative) are reported. Formative evaluation reflected participants' satisfaction and expected changes; summative evaluations yielded some quite encouraging results using quasi-experimental designs: those who took part in the programs increased their physical exercise, significantly improved their diet, reported better memory, had better emotional balance, and enjoyed more cultural, intellectual, affective, and social activities than they did before the course, thus increasing their social relationships. These results are discussed in the context of the common literature within the field and, also, taking into account the limitations of the evaluations accomplished.
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Lupu DS, Tint D, Niculescu MD. Perinatal epigenetic determinants of cognitive and metabolic disorders. Aging Dis 2012; 3:444-453. [PMID: 23251850 PMCID: PMC3522511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2012] [Revised: 09/19/2012] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple cues from the environment of our indirect and immediate ancestors, which often persist throughout the prenatal period and adulthood, are shaping our phenotypes through either direct, parent-to-child influences, or transgenerational inheritance. These effects are due to gene-environment interactions, which are intended to be a predictive tool and a mechanism of quick adaptation to the environment, as compared with genetic variations that are inherited over many generations. In certain circumstances the influences induced by the gene-environment interactions can have deleterious effects upon the health status, in the context of a radical change in the environment that does not fit with the predicted conditions, via epigenetic alterations. Conversely the best fit to the expected environment might have a delayed aging process and a longer life span. This review will touch upon the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DoHAD) concept, while discussing recent advances in the understanding of metabolic and cognitive disruptions, with a focus on epigenetic factors, their transgenerational effects, and the consequences they might have upon the onset of chronic disease and premature exitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S. Lupu
- UNC Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Nutrition, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, NC, U.S.A
| | - Diana Tint
- School of Medicine, Transilvania University in Brasov, Brasov, Romania
| | - Mihai D. Niculescu
- UNC Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Nutrition, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, NC, U.S.A
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Fernández-Ballesteros R, Molina MÁ, Schettini R, del Rey ÁL. Promoting Active Aging Through University Programs for Older Adults. GEROPSYCH-THE JOURNAL OF GERONTOPSYCHOLOGY AND GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 2012. [DOI: 10.1024/1662-9647/a000064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Throughout history, formal education has been “age-based,” in the sense that primary, secondary, further, and higher education have been planned and implemented with the main objective of preparing citizens for working life. However, gerontological research on cognitive plasticity in the latter half of the 20th century provided evidence of learning potential throughout the lifespan and into old age. The II International Plan of Action on Aging recognizes the importance of older adults in contributing to social and economic development, remaining active and having the right to benefit from lifelong learning (LLL) policies. Consequently, universities have been opened up to older adults, and university programs for older adults have been developed. Our general hypothesis is that those older adults who follow a university program will improve the core of active aging, which involves cognitive, emotional, and social factors. The quasiexperimental group was 82 older adults who followed the University Program for Older Adults at the Autonomous University of Madrid from 2007 to 2010. These were then compared with a control group (N = 76) over the same period. Pre/post comparisons show that participants obtain significant benefits, attributable to the program, in that they maintain their cognitive performance evaluated through the Digit-Symbol Test, their health (assessed through the number of illnesses reported), and their level of activity (information-seeking and social activities), and increase their level of positive affect. At the end of the Program, significantly more of those who enrolled on it were classified as “active agers,” compared to the control group.
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