An Examination of Visual Perceptual Training
Age-Related Memory DisordersPerceptual-cognitive training (PCT) is a computerized software game has been shown to improve sport performance in young elite athletes and even to aid in recovery speeds post-concussion. PCT may represent a unique type of training that could ultimately enhance cognitive performance or quality of life in all populations. What is not clear is whether PCT is beneficial to older adults with subjective memory complaints (SMCs). SMCs in older adults are an early risk indicator for Alzheimer's disease, making older adults with SMCs a target population for proactive interventions. The aim of this study was to determine if PCT can serve as a proactive intervention and enhance cognitive abilities in older adults with SMCs. The results of this research protocol introduce a new way of prevention from cognitive decline in healthy older adults and may introduce a new training programs for age-related memory disorder.
Effectiveness of a Cognitive Training Program (UMAM Method) in Elderly People Without Dementia
Age-Related Memory DisordersThe study is oriented to analyze the effectiveness of a cognitive training method (UMAM) on cognitive functions, subjective memory and mood state in elderly people without dementia. On the other hand, the study aims to examine whether variables such as cognitive reserve (e.g. educational level), APOE genotype and intracranial volume are related to increased benefit after the intervention. The researchers hope to find that greater cognitive reserve, not having the APOE allele ε4, and a greater volume of memory-related brain areas, are associated with better outcomes after the cognitive intervention.
Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Memory Training Workshops in People From 65 to 80 Years
Memory LossAge-Related Memory DisordersRandomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a Memory Training Workshop in cognitive function, in terms of self-perceived memory, everyday memory and executive control abilities. It is expected that the group intervention of memory training that this study proposes significantly improves cognition (memory, attention and executive control abilities) and the quality of life related to health (HRQOL) in the Experimental Group (EG) compared to the Control Group (CG). The group of individuals that take part in the Memory Training Workshops (Experimental Group) will be compared to another group of similar characteristics that do not (Control Group). Data will be collected at baseline, 3 months later and 6 months later.
Preventing Cognitive Decline With Alternative Therapies
DementiaMemory DisordersPreventing dementia is an important goal for our aging population. This proposal is an initial 42 months study of the effect of standardized ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) on preventing or delaying cognitive decline in people age 85 years or older (the oldest old). The study focuses on the oldest old who present a distinct advantage for primary prevention studies because of their particularly high risk for developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a precursor to dementia. Because this is a population that has previously been out of the mainstream for use of alternative medicine, the safety of GBE in this age group will also be tested in this study. The study is randomized, placebo controlled and double blind. Approximately 200 elderly cognitively healthy subjects will be enrolled and followed for detection of conversion to MCI. This pilot study is viewed as a necessary first step in order to demonstrate that GBE, an alternative or complementary therapy, has a disease modifying effect on the brain, distinct from a symptomatic effect. The study will test the feasibility of the randomized start design, a trial design proposed as a method for discerning brain- or disease- modifying from symptomatic effects. The magnitude of biological effect of the treatments will also be assessed with volumetric quantitative MRI, a complementary means of confirming whether there is a brain modifying effect (measured as a decrease in brain volume loss with treatment). Peripheral markers of oxidation status will measure possible anti-oxidant effects of GBE.
Coriandrum Sativum Seeds Improve Memory, Alleviate Anxiety and Depression, and Enhance Sleep Quality...
Memory DisordersAnxiety Depression1 moreC. sativum could potentially serve as a memory enhancer for university students. It is considered a preferable option to stimulant drugs due to its safety profile. Additionally, C. sativum may have positive effects on anxiety, depression, and sleep quality. However, it is important to note that the current body of research on the effects of oral C. sativum on the brain and nervous system is limited, and further studies are necessary to fully understand its potential benefits. Thus, this study aims to assess the impact of oral C. sativum on memory performance, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in university students.
Neurophysiological Effects of Whole Coffee Cherry Extract in Older Adults
Memory DeficitsThis study was designed to characterize the changes in the brain and body associated with whole coffee cherry extract (WCCE). WCCE is a patented extract of whole coffee fruit (coffee berries) from coffea arabica. Whole coffee cherries are a source of naturally occurring nutrients. There are no known side effects or allergens associated with WCCE other than that which would be associated with a consuming typical cup of coffee. Previous studies suggest that increases in serum concentrations of both serum total and exosomal brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF) may represent one of the mechanisms responsible for improved cognitive function after acute WCCE administration. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is an intermediate stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious decline of dementia. It can involve problems with memory, language, thinking and judgment that are greater than normal age-related changes. Furthermore, MCI is associated with reduced circulating BDNF. Due to earlier studies reporting the ability of WCCE to stimulate increases in circulating and exosomal BDNF, it has been postulated that WCCE may also acutely improve cognitive function (as measured using behavioral tasks and fMRI). The purpose of this study is to extend and elucidate the findings of previous investigations by examining the acute neurophysiological effects of WCCE using blood-oxygen level dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) employing a double-blind, randomized crossover design to investigate the acute effects of a single dose of WCCE or placebo (silica oxide) on neuronal activity in older participants.
The Effect of tES on a Cognitive Training
Memory ImpairmentThe aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) on a cognitive training in healthy elderly and memory impaired participants. In order to assess these effects different memory and attention tasks will be performed before and after the training as well as after 6 and 12 months.
The Efficacy of Using Volunteers to Implement a Cognitive Stimulation Program in Two Long-Term Care...
Impaired CognitionGeriatric Disorder3 moreMany volunteers visiting seniors make socially-based "friendly visits". This study investigated the efficacy of volunteers making visits focused on stimulating cognition. Participants were randomly assigned to either a "friendly visit" control group or a cognitive stimulation group. Seniors receiving stimulation visits made statistically significant improvement in memory abilities.
Testing Effect and Schizophrenia
SchizophreniaEpisodic Memory DeficitsWhen people are tested on a previously learned material, they will latter remember it better even when compared to a condition where they can re-study it. This phenomenon is called retrieval practice and is supported by an extensive research literature mostly carried out in normal students. This paradigm begins to be used in cognitive remediation programs in patients suffering from memory difficulties. The objective of this study is to investigate whether retrieval practice is spared in patients with schizophrenia. If effective, this method could be used in cognitive remediation programs. Since episodic memory difficulties are supposed to be secondary to deficits in the initiation/elaboration of efficient encoding and retrieval strategies our hypothesis is that retrieval practice is spared in schizophrenia
Social Support Aid For People With Dementia
DementiaMemory LossThe goal of this study is to determine the acceptability, utility, and preliminary effectiveness of a facial recognition technology for persons with memory concerns and their family care partners.