Journal
INTERNATIONAL PSYCHOGERIATRICS
Volume 23, Issue 4, Pages 526-538Publisher
CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESS
DOI: 10.1017/S1041610210001973
Keywords
MCI; dementia; cognitive disorders; memory
Ask authors/readers for more resources
Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is commonly associated with memory impairment. There have been a number of studies attempting to ameliorate this through memory interventions including memory rehabilitation and training. The current paper reviews the evidence for the effectiveness of such interventions in enhancing learning of specific information, their impact on untrained material, compensation for memory impairment and improving everyday functioning. Methods: The literature was systematically searched for studies focusing on interventions targeting memory impairment in MCI using relevant search terms. Studies were screened for inclusion or exclusion using a priori criteria and, once identified, studies were examined for quality using pre-specified criteria. Results: A total of 226 studies were identified in the search, ten of which were included in the final review. Only one study was an RCT of adequate methodology. It was tentatively suggested that people with MCI can learn specific information, although there was little evidence to suggest that memory training can generalize. There was some limited evidence of ability to learn to compensate for memory difficulties and contradictory findings regarding improvement in everyday life. Conclusions: The poor methodological quality of the included studies implies that the ability to draw conclusions is limited. MCI is a controversial concept and there is a need for good quality trials examining the efficacy of memory interventions. There are some indications that memory impairment in MCI might best be targeted by interventions developing compensatory strategies and targeting the learning of specific information relevant to the individual.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available