Evaluating cognitive reserve in older patients before surgery

Investigation of a Novel Quantitative Measure of Preoperative Cognitive Reserve in Older Surgical Patients: a Feasibility Study

Observational Ohio State University · NCT06245005

This study is testing a fun brain game program to see if it can help doctors understand how well older patients think before surgery and if it can predict their recovery outcomes.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorOhio State University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Columbus, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT06245005 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This feasibility study aims to assess the practicality of using a custom 6-game Lumosity brain exercise program to measure cognitive reserve in older surgical patients. Participants will engage in the brain games either during their preoperative assessment or on the day of surgery, allowing researchers to gather quick cognitive evaluations. The study will also estimate the incidence of postoperative delirium and compare gameplay performance with postoperative outcomes to evaluate predictive value. This pilot study will inform future research on cognitive assessments and interventions in surgical settings.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older who are undergoing non-cardiac or non-neurological surgery with an expected hospital stay of at least 72 hours.

Not a fit: Patients with severe visual or auditory deficits, active psychiatric disorders, or those requiring ICU admission post-surgery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved preoperative cognitive evaluations and potentially reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium in older patients.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using cognitive assessments to predict postoperative outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

1. 60 years of age or older
2. Capable and willing to consent
3. Non-cardiac/non-neurological surgery with an expected hospital stay of at least 72 hours
4. Anticipated ASA physical status I-IV
5. English speaking
6. Willingness to use computer-based device

Exclusion Criteria

1. Severe visual or auditory deficits
2. Illiterate
3. Surgery or procedure within the previous 6 months requiring general anesthesia
4. Active Axis I or II psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dementia, alcohol, or drug abuse
5. ASA physical status V, VI
6. Planned postoperative ICU admission
7. Preoperative benzodiazepine administration (i.e. Midazolam, Diazepam)

Where this trial is running

Columbus, Ohio

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cognitive Decline
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.