Mobile App-Based Cognitive Training Improves Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

Strategic Insights -

A recent study from Mae Fah Luang University in Chiang Rai, Thailand, has found that a mobile gaming app-based cognitive training program can significantly improve cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The research involved a randomized controlled trial of 42 participants, with 21 in the intervention group and 21 in the control group. The intervention group spent 30 minutes a day, two days a week, for four weeks using the mobile app's cognitive training game, while the control group did not receive any training. The results showed that the intervention group exhibited significant improvements in Stroop test performance, including increased correct responses and reduced uncorrected errors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study developed a mobile gaming app that uses image processing technologies to assess player behaviors concerning cognitive abilities such as executive functioning, memory retention, discrimination, and decision-making.
  • The app was designed to improve cognitive performances in older adults with MCI through a 30-minute daily training session for two days a week over four weeks.
  • The intervention group showed significant improvements in Stroop test performance, including increased correct responses (p = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.71) and reduced uncorrected errors (p = 0.04, Cohen's d = -0.67).
  • The app also enhanced auditory reaction time (p = 0.03, Cohen's d = -0.34) compared to the control group.
  • The study suggests that the mobile gaming app is a potential tool for training executive function in older adults with MCI.
  • The authors include Ampha Pumpho, Rumpa Boonsinsukh, Kitiyawadee Srisim, Supapon Kaewsanmung, Phannarin Suwannarat, and Petcharat Keawduangdee from Mae Fah Luang University.

Statistics:

  • 42 participants were involved in the study, with 21 in the intervention group and 21 in the control group.
  • The intervention group spent 30 minutes a day, two days a week, for four weeks using the mobile app's cognitive training game.
  • The Stroop test performance showed significant improvements in the intervention group, including increased correct responses (p = 0.02) and reduced uncorrected errors (p = 0.04).
  • The app also improved auditory reaction time (p = 0.03) compared to the control group.

Sources:

  • Frontiers in Psychology, 2025,16.
  • DOI: https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1633043
  • Mae Fah Luang University, School of Integrative Medicine, Chiang Rai, Thailand.