Technology-Based Cognitive Training Has Positive Impacts on Individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment, Study Says

​Rehabilitation interventions involving computers, tablets, gaming consoles and platforms, and virtual reality systems "show promise" in improving cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment, according to a systematic review published in BMC Geriatrics September 15, 2018. The systematic review identified 26 studies that assessed the impact of technology-based cognitive training and rehabilitation, which were conducted across the world and across many care settings. Results showed the interventions having a significant effect on global cognitive function in 8 of 22 studies, and positive effects were found in 8 of 18 studies on attention, 9 of 16 studies on executive function, and 16 out of 19 studies on memory. Some studies also assessed the effect of these interventions on mood and physical function (such as activities of daily living): 4 of 9 studies found beneficial effect on mood and only 2 of 11 studies found beneficial effects on physical function.