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Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback Using fNIRS Improves Cognitive Function in Older Adults

Author

Listed:
  • Bianca P. Acevedo

    (Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA)

  • Novia Dattatri

    (Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA)

  • Jennifer Le

    (Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA)

  • Claire Lappinga

    (Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA)

  • Nancy L. Collins

    (Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA)

Abstract

This study examined the effects of a 4-week cognitive training program with neurofeedback (CT-NF) among 86 healthy adults (M = 66.34 years, range 54–84) randomized to either a treatment (app-based ABC games) or control (Tetris) group. Participants completed seven cognitive assessments, pre- and post-intervention, and measured their cortical brain activity using a XB-01 functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) brain sensor, while engaging in CT-NF. The treatment (ABC) group showed significant (pre/post-intervention) improvements in memory (MEM), verbal memory (VBM), and composite cognitive function, while the control group did not. However, both groups showed significant improvements in processing speed (PS) and executive function (EF). In line with other studies, we found that strength of cortical brain activity (measured during CT-NF) was associated with both cognitive (pre and post) and game performance. In sum, our findings suggest that CT-NF and specifically ABC exercises, confer improved cognition in the domains of MEM, VBM, PS, and EF.

Suggested Citation

  • Bianca P. Acevedo & Novia Dattatri & Jennifer Le & Claire Lappinga & Nancy L. Collins, 2022. "Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback Using fNIRS Improves Cognitive Function in Older Adults," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(9), pages 1-16, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:9:p:5531-:d:807555
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. J. A. Anguera & J. Boccanfuso & J. L. Rintoul & O. Al-Hashimi & F. Faraji & J. Janowich & E. Kong & Y. Larraburo & C. Rolle & E. Johnston & A. Gazzaley, 2013. "Video game training enhances cognitive control in older adults," Nature, Nature, vol. 501(7465), pages 97-101, September.
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