The Comparative Effects of Two Cognitive Interventions Among Older Adults Residing in Retirement Communities

This study examined the effectiveness of two commercially available cognitive interventions to enhance memory performance among older adults, an adaptive computerized program, Dakim BrainFitness, and a non-adaptive program of pencil-and-paper exercises, Mind Your Mind. Older adults were randomized to Dakim BrainFitness (n = 18), Mind Your Mind (n = 17), or a control (n = 17) condition. Memory outcomes were administered at baseline and post-training. Analyses included 52 older adults with an average age of 82 years old who completed baseline and post-training visits. The Dakim BrainFitness program improved memory as indicated by one measure of immediate recall and both indices of delayed recall (ps .05). Dakim BrainFitness training showed potential effectiveness to improve some aspects of memory, while the Mind Your Mind program did not. The effectiveness of different types of cognitive interventions varies. Investigations to delineate the underlying mechanisms of effective techniques are needed.