Working memory training and semantic structuring improves remembering future events, not past events.
Objectives. Memory training in combination with practice in semantic structuring and word fluency has been shown to improve memory performance. This study investigated the efficacy of a working memory training combined with exercises in semantic structuring and word fluency and examined whether training effects generalize to other cognitive tasks. Methods. In this double-blind randomized control study, 36 patients with memory impairments following brain damage were allocated to either the experimental or the active control condition, with both groups receiving 9 hours of therapy. The experimental group received a computer-based working memory training and exercises in word fluency and semantic structuring. The control group received the standard memory therapy provided in the rehabilitation center. Patients were tested on a neuropsychological test battery before and after therapy, resulting in composite scores for working memory; immediate, delayed, and prospective memory; word fluency; and attention. Results. The experimental group improved significantly in working memory and word fluency. The training effects also generalized to prospective memory tasks. No specific effect on episodic memory could be demonstrated. Conclusion. Combined treatment of working memory training with exercises in semantic structuring is an effective method for cognitive rehabilitation of organic memory impairment.
Universität Oldenburg, Psychology, Oldenburg, Germany Reha-Zentrum, Neurologische Abteilung, Oldenburg, Germany.
Kim Merle
KM
Richter
Reha-Zentrum, Neurologische Abteilung, Oldenburg, Germany.
Claudia
C
Mödden
Radboud University of Nijmegen, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour., Netherlands.
Paul
P
Eling
Universität Oldenburg, Psychology, Oldenburg, Germany Klinikum Bremen-Ost, Bremen, Germany helmut-hildebrandt@uni-oldenburg.de.
Helmut
H
Hildebrandt
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001288:Attention; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D061212:Memory, Episodic; D057567:Memory, Long-Term; D008570:Memory, Short-Term / Q000502:physiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D012660:Semantics; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014705:Verbal Behavior / Q000502:physiology*
long-term memory; prospective memory; randomized controlled study; rehabilitation of memory impairments; stroke; word fluency; working memory