Authors (including presenting author) :
CHIU YH(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Master of Science Programme in Stroke and Clinical Neurosciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, (2) Occupational Therapy Department, Prince of Wales Hospital
Introduction :
Many people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) are found significantly declined in Executive Function (EF). Although computer-based intervention has been rapidly developed for EF training, the immediate and long-term effects are still controversial. This study aims to investigate the effect of the horse-racing group in EF training, as horse-racing is a community-based activity with variable-ratio schedule reinforcement which is the most effective reinforcement type to elicit and maintain motivation.
Objectives :
It may be able to supplement traditional EF intervention for immediate improvement and long-term home-based training.
Methodology :
48 occupational therapy progress notes were retrieved retrospectively for analysis. 22 patients completed the horse-racing group and 26 patients completed a computer-based intervention program. Each intervention was held 60 minutes weekly for 6 weeks. Five EF assessments were used to monitor the cognitive progress in baseline, posttest and 8-week follow-up.
Result & Outcome :
The horse-racing group showed statistically significant improvement in planning and problem-solving in posttest. In 8-week follow-up, working memory and mental set shifting also showed significant improvement. Working memory and planning ability showed significant correlations with the frequency of home-practice. No participant reported horse gambling after the intervention and 9 participants reported continuous home-based practice in 8-week follow-up. The computer-based training showed statistical improvement in working memory in posttest and 8-week follow-up.The horse-racing group may be effective for long-term EF improvement for people with MCI. Apart from the reinforcement type, some adjustments to group details are suggested to enhance home-based compliance rate for future studies.
