The Impact of a Computerized Cognitive Training on Healthy Older Adults: A Systematic Review Focused on Processing Speed and Attention

Abstract

As the world around us evolves into one with an aging population, it is essential to consider various strategies to reduce challenges encountered by older adults. Cognitive declination can be diminished through computerized cognitive interventions that employ frameworks of neuroplasticity to improve specific cognitive abilities. The speed of processing Brain HQ training by Posit Science Corporation has been frequently utilized for research purposes but its sole clinical validation of literature has yet to be reviewed. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review is to identify the benefits this training program confers to various cognitive abilities and everyday functions in addition to summarizing the similarities and differences across intervention characteristics. A search on a shared database of computerized cognitive training based research containing relevant studies from this program, PubMed and Google Scholar revealed a final list of 23 studies that were analyzed. Information obtained were segregated by benefits conferred to near transfer cognitive dimensions of processing speed and attentional domains, far transfers to other cognitive abilities and everyday functioning variables as well as intervention characteristics such as training exposure, adherence and implementation. Overall, most studies possessed low risk of bias and were of good quality. Small to large effect sizes were noted in near transfers to trained cognitive abilities while small to moderate effects sizes were observed in far transfers to untrained cognitive abilities and everyday functioning variables. Sufficient exposures at a laboratory, of four exercises and above, over a duration of 60 minutes or more per session and a total of more than 25 hours of training produces better effectiveness of the training program itself. Despite the presence of other biases in each individual research, current evidence supports the notion that Brain HQ is a clinically meaningful cognitive intervention that can promote healthy aging among older adults.