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James Alexander Fortman is a 2012 graduate of the PsyD Program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, Santa Barbara

Keywords

cognitive training, cognitive decline, technology, mild cognitive impairment, cognitive rehabilitation, computer-based cognitive training, age related cognitive decline, computer games, quantitative, neuropsychological assessment

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2012

Abstract

Cognitive Training has been shown to be an effective tool in enhancing cognitive functioning. Research has also shown video game playing can improve certain aspects of visual attention and cognitive processing speed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of both a specific computer-based cognitive training program and non-specific video game playing in improving cognitive functioning for individuals with age-related cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment. Twenty-nine older adults were recruited into the study and randomly assigned to either the cognitive training group or video-game playing group. Nineteen participants completed the study, engaging in either cognitive training or video game playing for 10-15 minutes a day, 4 days per week, for eight weeks. Multiple measures of neuropsychological functioning were administered both before and after training. The results showed no significant improvements in the cognitive training group, while the video game playing group improved on measures of auditory memory and processing speed. No significant differences were found between the two groups on any of the dependent variables. The electronic version of this dissertation is available free at Ohiolink ETD Center, www.ohiolink.edu/etd.

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