Actively Recruiting
Computerized Executive Function Training in Healthy Older Adults and Individuals With Mild Cognitive Impairment: Transfer Effects on Memory and Emotional Outcomes. A Randomized Controlled Trial
Led by Universidad Antonio de Nebrija · Updated on 2026-05-20
156
Participants Needed
2
Research Sites
21 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
Universidad Antonio de Nebrija
Lead Sponsor
U
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating an adaptive computerized cognitive training program called CogniFit to improve executive functions in older adults aged 65 and above, including both healthy individuals and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study also examines whether this training can improve memory and affect emotional symptoms, behavioral disorders, and quality of life. This randomized controlled trial addresses gaps such as small previous sample sizes, limited study durations, and unclear effects on emotional health and daily functioning. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups based on cognitive status (healthy or MCI) and intervention type (executive function training or active control activities). The cognitive training uses interactive games on tablets focusing on reasoning and executive skills, with sessions lasting 15-30 minutes, two to three times weekly for 8 to 12 weeks. Control groups will engage in simple recreational computerized tasks on the same platform to control for screen time and engagement. Participants will undergo three in-person assessments: before training, immediately after the 8-12 week program, and three months later, each lasting about two hours. Evaluations include cognitive exams, memory and reasoning tests, and measures of depression, anxiety, behavioral symptoms, quality of life, and daily living abilities. The study is conducted in Spain under the supervision of experienced psychologists and neuroscientists, with ongoing monitoring of participants' engagement and progress throughout the trial.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Computerized Cognitive Training in Healthy Older Adults and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Adults 65 years of age and older
- Spanish speakers
- Residents in Spain, including urban and rural communities
- No diagnosis of dementia or other major uncontrolled neurological disorders
- Initial cognitive status assessed by Lobo's Mini Cognitive Examination (Spanish MMSE)
- Provided signed informed consent and willingness to participate
You will not qualify if you...
- Severe cognitive impairment indicating possible dementia
- Diagnosis of dementia such as Alzheimer's disease
- Uncontrolled major psychiatric illnesses like major depression or schizophrenia
- Significant uncontrolled neurological conditions or history (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke, severe brain injury)
- Uncontrolled chronic medical conditions affecting cognition or attendance (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease)
- Severe uncorrected sensory disabilities (e.g., blindness or severe hearing loss) interfering with tablet use
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 day
Participants complete an initial in-person assessment prior to starting the cognitive training program. This session includes cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and quality of life evaluations conducted by the research team.
1 visit (in-person, approximately 2 hours)
Duration - 8 to 12 weeks
Participants undergo computerized cognitive training or active control computerized activities. Training sessions are conducted in small groups under supervision, focusing on executive functions or recreational tasks depending on group assignment.
2 to 3 sessions per week, each lasting 15-30 minutes, in small groups
Duration - 1 day
Participants complete an in-person assessment to evaluate changes in cognition, emotional health, behavioral symptoms, and quality of life after the training program.
1 visit (in-person, approximately 2 hours)
Duration - 1 day
Participants complete a follow-up in-person assessment three months after the intervention to assess sustained effects on cognitive and emotional outcomes.
1 visit (in-person, approximately 2 hours)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 2 locations
1
Nebrija University
Madrid, Madrid, Spain, 28015
Actively Recruiting
2
Complutense University of Madrid
Madrid, Madrid, Spain, 28040
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
V
Víctor Echeverry-Alzate, PhD
E
Elena Giné Domínguez, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
DOUBLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
4
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