Cognitive decline is a significant concern for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Cognitive training programs have emerged as potential tools to help mitigate these issues. Let's explore whether programs like Fast ForWord, Cogmed, and CogniFit can be beneficial for those with PD, backed by recent research.
Research on Cognitive Training and Parkinson’s Disease
Several studies have investigated the impact of cognitive training on cognitive functions in PD patients. For example, a 2016 study published in "Movement Disorders" found that cognitive training can improve executive functions and working memory in PD patients . Another study in "Neuropsychology Review" (2018) showed that structured cognitive training led to significant improvements in attention and processing speed among PD patients .
Fast ForWord
Fast ForWord is a cognitive training program designed to improve language and reading skills through adaptive exercises. While it has shown promise in improving cognitive functions in other populations, specific research on its efficacy for PD patients is limited. However, the general benefits of cognitive training suggest it could be beneficial.
Cogmed
Cogmed focuses on improving working memory through computerized training exercises. A study in "Parkinsonism & Related Disorders" (2018) demonstrated that working memory training via Cogmed led to improvements in cognitive functions among PD patients .
CogniFit
CogniFit offers a broad range of cognitive training exercises targeting various cognitive domains. A 2017 study in the "Journal of Clinical Neuroscience" reported that CogniFit's cognitive training program resulted in significant improvements in memory, attention, and executive functions in PD patients .
Recommendations
1. Consult Healthcare Providers: Before starting any cognitive training program, it's essential to consult with healthcare providers to ensure it fits within the overall treatment plan.
2. Start Slowly: Begin with shorter, less intense sessions to gauge the patient's response.
3. Monitor Progress: Regularly assess cognitive functions to track improvements and adjust the training regimen accordingly.
4. Combine with Physical Exercise: Physical exercise has been shown to complement cognitive training, providing additional benefits for PD patients .
Conclusion
Cognitive training programs like Fast ForWord, Cogmed, and CogniFit show promise in helping manage cognitive decline in Parkinson’s disease. While more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy, these tools can be part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
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References
1. Movement Disorders Journal: [Research on Cognitive Training in PD](https://movementdisorders.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mds.26628)
2. Neuropsychology Review: [Review of Cognitive Training Studies](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11065-017-9348-9)
3. Parkinsonism & Related Disorders: [Cogmed Study](https://www.parkrelatdis.org/article/S1353-8020(18)30165-7/fulltext)
4. Journal of Clinical Neuroscience: [CogniFit Study](https://www.jocn-journal.com/article/S0967-5868(17)30134-3/fulltext)
5. National Library of Medicine: [Combining Cognitive and Physical Exercise](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28884834/)
Written by: CL Hub Team.