Feasibility and benefits of computerized cognitive exercise to adults with chronic moderate-to-severe cognitive impairments following an acquired brain injury: A pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this pilot study was to explore feasibility and effects of participation in a computerized cognitive fitness exercise program by a group of adults with chronic moderate-to-severe cognitive impairments following an acquired brain injury (ABI).


METHODS
This study used a mixed methods design with a convenience sample of individuals forming two groups (+/- exercise).


METHODS
Following neurocognitive and satisfaction with life pre-testing of 14 participants, seven were enrolled in a 5-month, 5-days a week computerized cognitive exercise program. Post-testing of all participants and semi-structured interviews of exercise group participants were completed.


RESULTS
It was feasible for adults with chronic moderate-to-severe cognitive impairments post-ABI to participate in a computerized cognitive exercise program with ongoing external cues to initiate exercise sessions and/or to complete them as needed. Significant exercise group improvements were made on memory and verbal fluency post-tests and life satisfaction. The majority of exercise group participants reported some degree of positive impact on cognitive abilities and some on everyday functioning from program participation.


CONCLUSIONS
Adults with chronic moderate-to-severe cognitive impairments following an ABI may benefit from participation in computerized cognitive exercise programs. Further study is warranted.
a Northeastern University , Boston , MA , USA.|b Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital/Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA.
Therese M
TM
O'Neil-Pirozzi
a Northeastern University , Boston , MA , USA.
Henry
H
Hsu
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D013997:Time Factors
Acquired brain injury; chronic moderate-to-severe cognitive impairments; cognition; computerized cognitive exercise; feasibility