The effect of computerized cognitive training on executive function and quality of life in patients with chronic alcohol dependence

Page: 320-328

L.S. Aaseesh, Neha Sayeed, and C.R.J. Khess (Department of Clinical Psychology, Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi, Jharkhand)

Empirical studies have shown that, chronic alcohol dependence is a constant relapsing medical condition besides its psychological and social consequences, and essentially a brain disorder. It’s a chronic disorder, which implies cognitive impairments disturbing various neuro-psychological functions. Researches confirm that people with chronic alcohol dependence have a high rate of cognitive impairments, especially deficits in executive functions. Many innovative computer-based interventions for psychiatric disorders have been developed especially for cognitive remediation. In recent times much interest has been focused on using Posit Science Brain training exercises which is based on the theory of neuroplasticity for enhancement of executive functions. This method emphasizes generalization or extension of benefits beyond the trained task. The global changes in cognitive functions are to improve the quality of life. The current study examined this novel computerized intervention to determine its effect on executive functions of patients with chronic alcohol dependence. After the detoxification phase, patients were assigned to cognitive training group (experimental group) and in treatment as usual group (control group). The pre- post evaluation results were also noted. The statistical analysis of this study indicated significant improvement in cognitive functioning and all domains of quality of life. No significant difference was found for the control group.