Computer-based training to enhance executive function in patients with cognitive impairments
Computer-Assisted Self-Training to Improve Executive Function Versus Unspecific Training in Patients After Stroke, Cardiac Arrest or in Parkinson's Disease: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if special computer training can help improve thinking skills in people with cognitive problems from stroke, cardiac arrest, or Parkinson's disease compared to regular computer activities.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 307 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 100 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Bispebjerg Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Copenhagen and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04229056 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates the impact of specialized computer-based cognitive rehabilitation (CBCR) aimed at improving executive functions in patients with stroke, cardiac arrest, and Parkinson's disease. Participants will be divided into two groups, one receiving CBCR and the other engaging in general cognitive activities on a computer. A total of 307 patients will undergo an eight-week training program, with assessments of executive functions and quality of life conducted before, immediately after, and three months post-intervention. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of targeted cognitive rehabilitation compared to standard cognitive stimulation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with stroke, cardiac arrest, or Parkinson's disease, who have impaired working memory and access to a computer and internet.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological or psychiatric conditions that may affect their ability to participate or those who cannot provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance cognitive function and quality of life for patients suffering from executive dysfunction due to neurological conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with cognitive rehabilitation approaches, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * A diagnose of stroke, cardiac arrest or Parkinson's disease. * Aged 18 years or older. * Impaired working memory measured with CABPad working memory test, cut off for inclusion: 5 symbols or less backwards * Computer and internet access at home. * Providing informed consent. Inclusion criteria specific for stroke * Inclusion within 6 months post-stroke * Stroke confirmed by clinical findings and imaging, both AIS and ICH is allowed. * Initial stroke severity \>/= NIHSS 3. Inclusion criteria specific for cardiac arrest • Inclusion within 6 months post ictus. Inclusion criteria specific for Parkinson's disease * Clinical diagnosis of PD. * Anti-parkinsonian medical treatment (dopaminergic or other). Exclusion Criteria: * Informed consent not provided * Other neurological or psychiatric disease which is expected to influence the patient's ability to participate in the trial according to the investigator * Not able to participate according to investigator Exclusion criteria specific for stroke * Patients with massive anosognosia for executive dysfunction or patients with no subjective feeling of executive dysfunction (Patient sustains total denial of executive symptoms over time) * Patients with severe aphasia, in which it is unclear whether the patient's performance on a neuropsychological test-battery is due to aphasia and not executive dysfunction. Exclusion criteria specific for cardiac arrest • None Exclusion criteria specific for PD • Diagnosis of PD Dementia according to the MDS PD Dementia criteria
Where this trial is running
Copenhagen and 1 other locations
- Bispebjerg Hospital — Copenhagen, Denmark (Recruiting)
- Rigshospitalet — Copenhagen, Denmark (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hanne Christensen, Professor — Bispebjerg Hospital
- Study coordinator: Hanne Christensen, Professor
- Email: hanne.krarup.christensen@regionh.dk
- Phone: +45 38 63 50 70
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.