Home-based, Online Mindfulness and Cognitive Training for Soldiers and Veterans with TBI
Abstract
In this study, online individuated brain training program (cognitive training + mindfulness/stress-reduction training) with caregiver support portal and lifestyle monitor is evaluated as a Quality of Life (QOL) enhancing strategy by comparing it to an active control condition (casual video games + online TBI information session) for veterans with TBI. Our main project goals are a) to determine the effectiveness of this advanced brain training approach; b) to initiate strategies that encourage and document other key lifestyle changes known to contribute to brain health; c) to further optimize delivery strategies to ensure near-universal access; d) to assure that training has restored brain health and brought the patient to a better, safer brain-health level; and e) to determine long-term patient fates. To achieve these goals, we randomize 80 veterans with TBI to 12-weeks of in-home brain training vs. a control intervention. Patient outcomes are measured primarily using neuropsychological assessments in processing speed (composite score of Pattern Comparison, Digit Symbol Coding, and Letter Comparison). As secondary measures, we use neuropsychological assessments in attention (composite score of Attentional Blink, and Stroop), working memory (composite score of Picture Sequence Memory Test, and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test), and executive function (composite score of Trail Making B and Task Switch). Functional and structural MRI are used to measure structural and functional neurological changes attributable to these interventions. The Functional Activities Questionnaire is used to document everyday function activity levels. Self-reported sleep quality,physical activity, levels of social communication, brain healthy diet, and mood are documented using daily program-embedded questionnaires delivered throughout the training to further measure QOL impacts, and to help determine the magnitude and endurance of increased resilience after training completion.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1048381
Entities
People
- Hyun K. Lee