Cognitive training and practice effects in MCI

描述(由申请人提供)：本意见书的总体目标是研究是否可以通过训练练习改善MCI的认知功能。这些发现可能会加深我们对MCI机制的理解，为我们干预这种疾病的尝试提供信息，并影响未来临床试验的设计和方法学。我们建议进行一项随机、安慰剂对照的临床试验，试验对象为患有MCI的老年人[230]。在使用认知电池进行预测试之后，参与者将被随机分配到实验的 组或活动对照组。试验组的受试者将完成40个1小时的在线计算机练习，旨在提高处理速度和听觉记忆(大脑可塑性公司)。控制组的参与者将完成40次1小时的在线计算机化活动，这些活动并不是专门为改善认知而设计的(例如，填字游戏)。两组训练结束后将进行后测。我们还将在12个月后检查培训计划的效果。通过这些目标的实现，我们期望促进我们对MCI的机制和治疗的理解，这将对临床护理和研究产生影响。例如，如果这些人确实从认知训练中受益，那么这可能会减少与这种疾病相关的残疾。这个项目与国家老龄研究所的使命是一致的。关联性。最大限度地减少MCI的有害影响对于提供临床护理和推进这种疾病的研究至关重要。例如，如果认知缺陷可以最小化，那么个体可能会在更长的时间内保持功能独立。同样，意识到缓和干预效果的因素将使我们能够针对个体进行未来的MCI临床试验。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The overall aim of this submission is to examine if cognitive functioning in MCI can be improved with training exercises. These findings could further our understanding about the mechanisms of MCI, inform our attempts to intervene in this disease, and influence the design and methodology of future clinical trials. We propose a randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial using [230] older adults with MCI. Following pre-testing with a cognitive battery, participants will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group or an active control group. Those in the experimental group will complete 40 1-hour sessions of online, computerized exercises designed to improve processing speed and auditory memory (Brain Plasticity, Inc.). Those in the control group will complete 40 1-hour sessions of online, computerized activities that are not specifically designed to improve cognition (e.g., crossword puzzles). Post-testing will follow completion of training in both groups. We will also examine effects of the training program after 12 months. By achieving these aims, we expect to advance our understanding of the mechanisms and treatment of MCI, which will have effects for clinical care and research. For example, if these individuals do benefit from cognitive training, then this may reduce the disability associated with this disease. This project is consistent with the mission of the National Institute on Aging. Relevance. Minimizing the deleterious effects of MCI is critical for providing clinical care and advancing research with this disease. For example, if cognitive deficits can be minimized, then individuals may retain functional independence for longer periods of time. Similarly, awareness of factors that moderate the effects of intervention will allow us to target individuals for future clinical trials in MCI.