Does Generalization Occur Following Computer-Based Cognitive Retraining? An Exploratory Study

Kitsum Li, Jonathan Alonso, Nisha Chadha, Jennifer Pulido

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Computer-based cognitive retraining (CBCR) intervention has gained great popularity in recent years. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of skill generalization to daily living task for individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) after completion of eight modules of a commercially available CBCR program, the Parrot Software. The study investigated changes in individuals’ global cognition as measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and changes in individuals’ performance during a medication-box sorting task, a novel instrumental activity of daily living. The medication-box sorting task resembled real life medication management with daily prescribed and over-the-counter medications. Twelve individuals with ABI from a community-based program completed the study. Results indicated that CBCR intervention brought about improvement in global cognition, but the improvement did not appear in any particular cognitive domain. Additionally, the gains in global cognition failed to enhance performance in the medication-box sorting task. This exploratory study demonstrated that while CBCR may be a promising intervention for improving global cognition in individuals with ABI, additional intervention might be needed for generalization to occur to a novel daily task. Future studies should look for the ultimate therapeutic outcome from CBCR interventions or include interventions that could bridge the gap between CBCR intervention and performance improvement in daily living occupations.

Original languageAmerican English
Pages (from-to)283-296
Number of pages14
JournalOccupational Therapy in Health Care
Volume29
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2015

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Occupational Therapy

Keywords

  • Cognition
  • Instrumental activity of daily living
  • Occupational therapy
  • Stroke
  • Traumatic brain injury

Disciplines

  • Occupational Therapy

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