Timing of cognitive training for older ICU survivors

Optimal Timing of Computerized Cognitive Training for Older Intensive Care Unit Survivors

NA · University of Washington · NCT05467410

This study tests whether older adults who survived an ICU stay can improve their thinking skills better with morning or evening computer training sessions compared to regular care.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Washington (other)
Locations1 site (Seattle, Washington)
Trial IDNCT05467410 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the optimal timing for computerized cognitive training interventions in older adults who have survived intensive care unit (ICU) stays. It aims to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of morning versus late afternoon/evening sessions of cognitive training, compared to standard care. The research also explores how circadian rhythm parameters influence cognitive function and recovery in this population. By addressing cognitive impairment and circadian misalignment, the study seeks to enhance recovery outcomes for older ICU survivors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 60 and older who have been hospitalized in the ICU for at least 24 hours and are expected to be discharged to a post-ICU unit.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of Alzheimer's disease, dementia, severe mental health disorders, or significant physical impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve cognitive function and recovery outcomes for older adults after ICU discharge.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches targeting cognitive impairment in ICU survivors have been explored, this specific focus on circadian timing in cognitive interventions is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 60 years
* ICU length of stay ≥ 24 hours
* Active transfer order or expected discharge from ICU to a post-ICU unit
* Fluent in English
* Functional independence prior to hospital admission (Katz Index = 6)
* No suspicion of Alzheimer's disease/dementia
* Current hospitalization at University of Washington Medical Center or Harborview Medical Center

Exclusion Criteria:

* Documented history or suspicion of Alzheimer's disease/dementia, or current prescription of anti-dementia medication
* Documented history of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia
* Documented acute stroke or acute traumatic brain injury
* Severe visual impairment
* Severe hearing impairment
* Severe dominant arm paresis/paralysis
* Transfer from inpatient rehabilitation or skilled nursing care facility

Where this trial is running

Seattle, Washington

Study contacts

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Critical Illness, Cognitive Impairment, Circadian Dysrhythmia, Intensive Care Unit Delirium, Aging, Older People

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.