A-50 * Feasibility and Initial Results of a Randomized-Controlled Computer-Based Cognitive Training Trial in Individuals with Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluates the feasibility and efficacy of computer-based cognitive training programs in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Method: Individuals with a diagnosis of PD with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) were randomly assigned to 8 weeks of a computer-based cognitive training program-Posit’s Brain Fitness (auditory processing and speed; n ¼ 4) or InSight program (visual processing and speed; n ¼ 4)-or an active control condition (n ¼ 3). Outcomes were assessed at baselineandimmediatefollow-up. Results:Complianceanalyses revealed thatonly55%of participants completed the program, with participants completing about 66% of their respective programs on average. Individuals completing the Posit programs saw an average improvement rate of about17%over the course of the study. Percent compliance and Posit’s improvement scores were non-significantly, positivelycorrelated withone another (r ¼ .661) but generally not associated with cognitiveandmoodoutcome measures, with the exception that higher improvement scores were significantly related to lower depression from baseline to im- mediate post (r ¼ 2.791,p,.05). In repeated measures analyses, significant improvementin depressionwasseen for individuals receiving Brain Fitness compared to those receiving InSight or the control intervention,F(2, 3) ¼ 17.48, p ¼ .022. Conclusion(s): Adherencewasa challenge to successful dissemination of at-home computer-based cognitive training programs. Improvement on auditory and processing speed tasks predicted lower depression, raising the possibility that successful engagement in training pro- grams can lead to improvedmood. Ongoing data collection will allow for increased statistical power to detect changes and further evaluate the relationship between compliance and outcomes.