Effects of Cognitive Training on Alzheimer's Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Rebok George, Clay Olivio, Wallace Gail, Ball Karlene, Thorpe, Jr. Roland, Marsiske Michael, Felix Cynthia, Willis Sherry
Hypothesis
Does cognitive training improve outcomes for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, moderated by social determinants of health?
Conclusion
Cognitive training was found to be beneficial for individuals across various social determinants of health, providing protection against Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias.
Supporting Evidence
- Cognitive training was beneficial for individuals across the continuum for most domains of social determinants of health.
- Participants with higher healthcare access and education scores had a greater degree of protection from Alzheimer's Disease.
- Higher scores on neighborhood and built environment were associated with lower Alzheimer's Disease risk.
Takeaway
This study shows that training your brain can help older people stay healthy and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, especially if they have good access to healthcare and education.
Methodology
The study involved a randomized clinical trial assessing cognitive training effects on older adults over a 20-year follow-up period.
Limitations
Fewer significant effects of social determinants of health as moderators than expected.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily older adults (average age 73.6, range 65-94 years; 76% female; 26% African American).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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