Training Older Adults to Use Tablet Computers: Does It Enhance Cognitive Function?
Training Older Adults to Use Tablet Computers: Does It Enhance Cognitive Function?
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DOI：
10.1093/geront/gnu057
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发表时间：
2016-06
期刊：
影响因子：
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通讯作者：
Park DC
中科院分区：
文献类型：
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作者：
Chan MY;Haber S;Drew LM;Park DC
最近的证据表明，参与学习新技能可以改善老年人的情景记忆。在这项研究中，老年人谁是电脑新手接受培训，使用平板电脑和相关的软件应用程序。我们假设，持续参与这种具有精神挑战性的训练将产生双重好处，通过引入有用的技能来改善认知和增强日常功能。共有54名老年人（60-90岁）承诺每周15小时，持续3个月。18名参与者接受了广泛的iPad培训，学习了广泛的实际应用。iPad组与两个独立的对照组进行了比较：安慰剂组从事被动任务，几乎不需要新的学习;社交组有定期的社交互动，但没有主动的技能获取。所有参与者在参与前和参与后都完成了相同的认知测试。与两个对照组相比，iPad组在情景记忆和处理速度方面表现出更大的改善，但在心理控制或视觉空间处理方面没有差异。iPad训练相对于参与社交或非挑战性活动而言，可以改善认知能力。掌握相关的技术设备具有额外的优势，可以为老年人提供有助于促进日常活动的技术技能（例如，银行业）。这项工作为今后的干预措施和社区方案选择有针对性的活动提供了信息。
Recent evidence shows that engaging in learning new skills improves episodic memory in older adults. In this study, older adults who were computer novices were trained to use a tablet computer and associated software applications. We hypothesize that sustained engagement in this mentally challenging training would yield a dual benefit of improved cognition and enhancement of everyday function by introducing useful skills. A total of 54 older adults (age 60-90) committed 15 hr/week for 3 months. Eighteen participants received extensive iPad training, learning a broad range of practical applications. The iPad group was compared with 2 separate controls: a Placebo group that engaged in passive tasks requiring little new learning; and a Social group that had regular social interaction, but no active skill acquisition. All participants completed the same cognitive battery pre- and post-engagement. Compared with both controls, the iPad group showed greater improvements in episodic memory and processing speed but did not differ in mental control or visuospatial processing. iPad training improved cognition relative to engaging in social or nonchallenging activities. Mastering relevant technological devices have the added advantage of providing older adults with technological skills useful in facilitating everyday activities (e.g., banking). This work informs the selection of targeted activities for future interventions and community programs.