Computer-aided neurocognitive remediation as an enhancing strategy for schizophrenia rehabilitation

Psychiatry Res. 2009 Oct 30;169(3):191-6. doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2008.06.027. Epub 2009 Sep 9.

Abstract

Cognitive dysfunction is a chronically disabling feature of schizophrenia, associated with limits in obtaining rehabilitation improvements. The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of intensive computer-aided cognitive remediation treatment (CRT) added to a standard rehabilitation treatment (SRT), in enhancing neuropsychological performances and daily functioning in patients with schizophrenia. A 12-week, randomized, controlled, single-blind trial of neurocognitive remediation was carried out on 86 patients with clinically stabilized DSM-IV schizophrenia. Patients were assessed on cognitive and daily functioning before and after either CRT or placebo training that had been added to their SRT. After 3 months the repeated measure ANOVA showed a significant time x treatment interaction for executive function and attention performances and in daily functioning assessment in favour of patients in the SRT+CRT treatment. Results confirmed that cognitive remediation added to the SRT of schizophrenia enhanced its neuropsychological effects and increased the effects of a long-term rehabilitation programme in terms of functional outcomes.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology
  • Cognition Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Computer-Aided Design*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Quality of Life
  • Schizophrenia / complications
  • Schizophrenia / rehabilitation*
  • Schizophrenic Psychology*
  • Single-Blind Method
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult