A rehabilitation program for mild memory impairments.
Authors: Panza F, Solfrizzi V, Mastroianni F, Nardo G, et al.
Year: 1996
Source: Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics 5(23/Suppl.):51-55.
Abstract: This study consisted of eight subjects within the age range of 60-75 years, with 5 years of education and mild memory impairments that were enrolled in the rehabilitation program and eight subjects in the control group with comparable neuropsychological deficits, but were not given rehabilitation training. Prior to training cognitive/behavioral functions were assessed. The 12-week neuropsychological rehabilitative intervention comprised of 5-day domiciliary training with a set of home exercises and a 1-day training at the Center with rehabilitative exercises carried out using a personal computer. This protocol was followed each week. Treatment was aimed at stimulating visuo-verbal, verbal and spatial memory and also made use of 'memory strategies'. Following 4, 8 and 12 weeks of therapy, cognitive functions were assessed with the same battery of tests. Results showed that the memory test scores had improved thereby indicating the positive effect of neuropsychological training on memory performances. On the other hand, the control group showed no improvement. (CIRRIE Abstract)
Institution: Department of Geriatrics, University Bari Faculty of Medicine, Policlinico, Piazza G. Cesare 11, I-70124 Bari, Italy
Language: English
Subject headings: Abstracts, Behavior, Cognition, HIV, Learning disabilities, Memory, Older adults, Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation facilities, Training