Doctor, Should I Use Computer Games to Prevent Dementia?. Issue 1 (1st January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: O'Shea, Deirdre M.; De Wit, Liselotte; Smith, Glenn E.
• Is Part Of: Clinical gerontologist. Volume 42:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 3
• Page End: 16
• Publication Date: 2019-01-01
• Subjects: Brain games -- computerized cognitive training -- mild cognitive impairment; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; Geriatric psychiatry -- Periodicals; Older people -- Mental health services -- Periodicals; Older people -- Psychology -- Periodicals; 618.97689
• DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2017.1370057
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0731-7115

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Commercial advertising of computerized "brain games" may result in clinicians being asked whether brain games prevent dementia. To address this question, we conducted a review of computerized cognitive training (CCT) interventions in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Studies were identified using a PubMed and PSYCinfo search for review articles. Within 11 review articles we identified 15 unique studies. Nine of these studies used commercially available "brain games" as their primary CCT intervention. Nine of 12 studies that examined the effect of CCT on episodic memory performance showed significant improvements in this domain. Furthermore, four of six studies that examined mood and or anxiety showed improvements in these domains following a CCT intervention. While more than double the amount of time was spent on the training that used commercially available "brain games" versus those designed by investigators, there were no differences in outcomes. Overall, it appears that "brain games" may modestly benefit aspects of cognition and aspects of mood in patients presenting with MCI. However, there is no direct evidence from the studies presented here that "brain games"/CCT can prevent dementia. We present recommendations to consider when discussing "brain games" with persons with MCI.