Intensive working memory training: a single case experimental design in a patient following hypoxic brain damage

Hynes, S.M., Fish, J. and Manly, T. (2014) Intensive working memory training: a single case experimental design in a patient following hypoxic brain damage. Brain Injury, 28(13-14), pp. 1766-1775. (doi: 10.3109/02699052.2014.954622) (PMID:25207877)

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Abstract

Background: Recent reports suggest that intensive, progressive training on working memory tasks can lead to generalized cognitive gains. Case study: A patient, following hypoxic brain damage, showed significant difficulties in working memory and time-perception. This study examined the impact and specificity of any benefits resulting from automated working memory training (AWMT) in comparison with the effects of an equivalent programme that emphasized automated novel problem-solving (APST) which served as an active control. Following initial assessment, the patient trained for 4 weeks (20 days), 20–30 minutes a day on the APST tasks before repeating key outcome measures. He then trained for an identical period on AWMT. Results: There were no cognitive gains apparent following APST. Furthermore, there were no disproportionate gains on digit span following AWMT. AWMT was, however, associated with improvement in time-perception that had previously been resistant to rehabilitation. In line with previous reports, AWMT was also followed by gains on a measure of planning. Conclusion: The results provide encouraging evidence that AWMT may have generalized benefits in the context of impaired WM capacity following brain injury.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Fish, Dr Jessica
Authors: Hynes, S.M., Fish, J., and Manly, T.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
Journal Name:Brain Injury
Publisher:Informa Healthcare
ISSN:0269-9052
ISSN (Online):1362-301X
Published Online:10 September 2014

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