Background: Cognitive training (CT) may have benefits for both healthy older adults (HC) and those with early cognitive disorders [mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia]. However, few studies have qualitatively evaluated home-based, computerized CT programs.
Objective: We present the qualitative arm of a feasibility randomized controlled trial evaluating a CT program for HC and people living with MCI or dementia.
Methods: Participants underwent semi-structured interviews after 12 weeks of CT. Where possible, participants were interviewed with their carers. The interview schedule and analysis were underpinned by the health belief model. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, open-coded, and categorized into themes. The analytical framework was developed, and themes were condensed under five major categories: benefits, barriers, threat, self-efficacy, and cues to action.
Results: 37 participants underwent interviews. CT was feasible and acceptable to participants. Benefits included: enjoyment, improved awareness, benchmarking cognitive function, reassurance of abilities and giving back control. Barriers were more prevalent among those with dementia: problems with technology, frustration, conflict between patients and carers, apathy and lack of insight, anxiety or low mood, and lack of portability. HC and MCI perceived the severity of dementia risk as high, partially mitigated by CT. Participants living with dementia valued a more individualized approach to training, accounting for baseline characteristics.
Conclusion: CT was a feasible intervention for HC and people living with dementia and MCI. Benefits were present, but the identified barriers need to be addressed for CT to be implemented successfully.
Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; cognitive dysfunction; healthy aging; mild cognitive impairment.