SCGs as a Proxy for Determining the Cognitive Status of Older Adults

University of Alberta

Status: Completed

Conditions: Alzheimer Disease; Mild Cognitive Impairment; Cognitive Decline; Healthy Aging; Dementia

Treatments: Other: VibrantMinds

Study type: Observational

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06367231

Pro00134554

Details and patient eligibility

About

Detecting memory problems early is crucial for treating conditions like Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), which often leads to dementia. Currently, doctors use tests in clinics to check for these issues. However, there's a growing need for better methods to monitor our cognitive skills over time. Computer games emerge as a cost-effective solution for assessing the brain functions of older adults.

In our study, we are investigating the potential of computer games to reflect the cognitive skills of older adults. We developed the VibrantMinds platform, featuring five games: Whack-a-Mole, Bejeweled, Mahjong Solitaire, Word Search, and Memory Game. We have evaluated these games for ease of use, enjoyment, and their impact on brain functions. Now, our goal is to determine whether these games can offer valuable insights into the cognitive skills of older adults.

We are collecting demographic data, game-playing data, and cognitive test results. Our analysis will determine the correlation between game data, cognitive test outcomes, and demographic information. Additionally, we will assess both the perceived and observed engagement of older adults as they play the games.

Enrollment: 6 patients

Sex: All

Ages: 65+ years old

Volunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Reside in Calgary and/or Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
• sufficient English language skills to converse in English with research staff

Exclusion criteria

• Moderate or severe limitations in the control or movement of the upper extremity (e.g., severe arthritis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis)
• Visual and hearing impairments
• Attention deficit

Trial design

6 participants in 1 patient group

Serious Computer Game Intervention

Description:

Older Adults (healthy), Older adults with MCI, older adults with dementia Each participant will undergo three sessions, spaced one week apart. These sessions will take place either at locations that support the research team's activities or at the participants' homes, offering flexibility to accommodate individual circumstances. The format of these sessions can vary, being either group-based or individual. Each session is designed to last approximately one hour, with a maximum duration of 90 minutes to ensure thoroughness without overwhelming participants.

Treatment:

Other: VibrantMinds