Cognitive Training and Neuroplasticity in Mild Cognitive Impairment: COGIT-2 Trial
Columbia University
Summary
Effective, clinically meaningful treatments are lacking for patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which is associated with increased risk of transition to dementia. Cognitive training represents an important therapeutic strategy. In a previous study, crossword puzzles were found to be superior to computerized cognitive training on the primary cognitive outcome and function with decreased brain atrophy. Building on these findings, this study will evaluate and compare the impact of high dose crosswords (4 puzzles per week) to low dose crosswords (1 puzzle per week) and a health education control group on the cognition and function of participants.
Description
This study plans to enroll 240 participants with MCI: 75 at Columbia University, 60 at Duke, 60 at University of Miami, 45 at University of Washington. Participants will be randomized 1:1:1 to 4 crossword puzzles per week (high dose arm), 1 crossword puzzle per week (low dose arm), or health education (control arm). In the crossword groups, this initial intensive 12-week phase will be followed by booster sessions that will each comprise 30-minute sessions (1 or 4 sessions depending on assignment) completed over 1 week, and occur at weeks 20, 32, 42, 52, 64, and 78. In-person assessments will o…