OBJECTIVES:
The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of computerized
cognitive rehabilitation training on
inpatients with
schizophrenia in the
rehabilitation unit.
METHODS:
Thirty-eight
patients with
schizophrenia from the Yongin
Mental Hospital Rehabilitation Ward were randomly assigned either to a computerized
cognitive rehabilitation group or to a
control group. The
rehabilitation group received 12 sessions of computerized
cognitive rehabilitation training (Cog-Trainer) over 3 months. This
training program consisted of ten units, each of which consisted of 3 levels, practice, application, and advanced. Neurocognitive functions were assessed at the beginning and end of the
training period. Cognitive
measures included Span of Apprehension (SPAN), Continuous Performance Test (CPT), Digit Span,
Trail Making Test, and the
Stroop Test.
RESULTS:
Compared to controls, subjects receiving computerized
cognitive rehabilitation training experienced a significant improvement in
attention, concentration, and
working memory.
CONCLUSION:
These results indicate that computerized
cognitive rehabilitation training can contribute to improvement in
cognitive function of
patients with
schizophrenia. Further study to generalize these results is required.