Ubiquitous Spaced Retrieval-based Memory Advancement and Rehabilitation Training

Feasibility and Efficacy of the Ubiquitous Spaced Retrieval-based Memory Advancement and Rehabilitation Training (U-SMART) on Mild Cognitive Impairment

The purpose of this study is to examine feasibility and efficacy of the Ubiquitous Spaced Retrieval-based Memory Advancement and Rehabilitation Training (U-SMART) in the elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

The Spaced Retrieval-based Memory Advancement and Rehabilitation Training (SMART) which consisted of 24 one-hour face-to-face sessions (Lee, Park et al. 2009) was developed based on the spaced retrieval training (SRT), which was effective in improving memory retention span of very mild to mild Alzheimer's disease patients. The Ubiquitous SMART (U-SMART) by transforming the current SMART to a self-administered program using an application working on IPAD was developed, and was examined its feasibility and efficacy in the elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 55-90
• Educational level above 1 year and confirmed literacy
• Diagnosed to mild cognitive impairment by International Working Group on Mild Cognitive Impairment
• Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) of 0 or 0.5

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed to dementia by DSM-IV
• Evidence of delirium, confusion
• Any neurological conditions causing cognitive decline such as Parkinson's disease, brain hemorrhage, brain tumor, normal pressure hydrocephalus
• Evidence of severe cerebrovascular pathology
• History of loss-of-consciousness over 1 hour due to head trauma or repetitive head trauma of mild severity
• History of substance abuse or dependence such as alcohol
• Presence of depressive symptoms that could influence cognitive function
• Presence of medical comorbidities that could result in cognitive decline
• Use of medication that could influence cognitive function seriously