What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

Common treatments for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) include cognitive stimulation and enhancement through structured mental exercises, such as those provided by Neuro-World cognitive training games. These treatments work by engaging the brain in targeted activities designed to improve cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. The mechanisms of action involve neuroplasticity, where the brain forms new neural connections in response to mental challenges, and cognitive reserve, which helps the brain compensate for age-related changes and potential damage. This is crucial for MCI patients as it can slow the progression of cognitive decline, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall quality of life.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) include cognitive training and enhancement through structured mental exercises, such as virtual reality cognitive training and serious game-based interventions. These non-pharmacological treatments are generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects. However, some individuals may experience mild discomfort, such as eye strain, headaches, or dizziness, particularly with virtual reality applications. It is important to monitor for these symptoms and adjust the intensity or duration of the exercises as needed.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has not approved any specific drugs for the treatment of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). However, cognitive stimulation and enhancement through structured mental exercises, similar to the Neuro-World cognitive training games, are being studied for their potential benefits. These non-pharmacological interventions aim to improve cognitive function through activities designed to challenge and engage the brain. While pharmacological treatments like cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil) and NMDA receptor antagonists (e.g., memantine) are approved for Alzheimer's disease, their efficacy in MCI remains unproven. Cognitive training and rehabilitation continue to be a promising area of research for managing MCI.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to Neuro-World cognitive training games for MCI patients include: 1) Computer-based multidomain cognitive training programs, such as those using RehaCom software, which have shown beneficial effects in clinical studies. 2) Digital Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which has demonstrated improvements in psychological well-being and sleep-related quality of life, indirectly supporting cognitive health. 3) Serious game-based interventions, which are being evaluated for their therapeutic efficacy in MCI patients. These alternatives offer structured mental exercises and cognitive stimulation that can be beneficial for MCI patients.

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Behavioural Intervention

Serious Game-based Intervention for Mild Cognitive Impairment

N/A

Recruiting

Led By Sunghoon I Lee, PhD

Research Sponsored by University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Fifty-five years old and above

Be older than 18 years old

Must not have

Diagnosis of dementia

Major depression

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up 30 minutes

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial will test if playing Neuro-World games can help people with early memory and thinking problems by keeping their brains active and improving their memory and thinking skills.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for people over 55 with mild cognitive issues, scoring between 17 and 25 on the MoCA test. They must be able to use a computer for online games and assessments. It's not suitable for those with major depression, certain neurological conditions, severe hearing or vision loss, or significant arm impairments.

What is being tested?

The study tests 'Neuro-World' cognitive training games designed to help brain function in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Participants will play these games at home and communicate via videoconferencing for assessments.

What are the potential side effects?

Since this intervention involves playing online games designed to improve cognition, side effects are minimal but may include eye strain or fatigue from prolonged screen time.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

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I am 55 years old or older.

Exclusion Criteria

You may be eligible for the trial if you check “No” for criteria below:

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I have been diagnosed with dementia.

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I have been diagnosed with major depression.

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I have severe difficulty using my arms or hands.

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I do not have any major issues with my arms that would stop me from using a tablet.

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I show signs of a specific type of dementia or movement disorder.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ 30 minutes

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~30 minutes

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and 30 minutes for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)

Secondary study objectives

Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study/Activities of Daily Living scale adapted for mild cognitive impairment patients (ADCS/MCI/ADL24)

Digit Backward Span (DBS)

Digit Forward Span (DFS)

+3 more

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Game InterventionExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Study participants play Neuro-World 30 minutes per day, twice a week for 12 weeks in your home settings (24 times).

Group II: No InterventionActive Control1 Intervention

Study participants do not engage in any cognitive training.

0 / 6Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) include cognitive stimulation and enhancement through structured mental exercises, such as those provided by Neuro-World cognitive training games. These treatments work by engaging the brain in targeted activities designed to improve cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. The mechanisms of action involve neuroplasticity, where the brain forms new neural connections in response to mental challenges, and cognitive reserve, which helps the brain compensate for age-related changes and potential damage. This is crucial for MCI patients as it can slow the progression of cognitive decline, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall quality of life.