Computerized cognitive training in survivors of childhood cancer: a pilot study

J Pediatr Oncol Nurs. 2011 Jan-Feb;28(1):27-33. doi: 10.1177/1043454210377178. Epub 2010 Oct 21.

Abstract

The objective of the current study was to pilot a computerized cognitive training program, Captain's Log, in a small sample of survivors of childhood cancer. A total of 9 survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and brain tumors with attention and working memory deficits were enrolled in a home-based 12-week cognitive training program. Survivors returned for follow-up assessments postintervention and 3 months later. The intervention was associated with good feasibility and acceptability. Participants exhibited significant increases in working memory and decreases in parent-rated attention problems following the intervention. Findings indicate that home-based, computerized cognitive intervention is a promising intervention for survivors with cognitive late effects; however, further study is warranted with a larger sample.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adolescent
  • Attention
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / etiology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Brain Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Child
  • Cognition*
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction / methods*
  • Female
  • Health Status Indicators
  • Humans
  • Intelligence Tests
  • Male
  • Oncology Nursing
  • Pediatric Nursing
  • Pilot Projects
  • Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / psychology*
  • Psychometrics
  • Stress, Psychological
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Survivors / psychology*