Working Memory Training in COPD Patients: the Cogtrain-Trial

The Feasibility of Working Memory Training in COPD Patients and the Efficacy on Cognitive Performance, Self-Control and Stress Response

General cognitive impairment is highly prevalent in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Domain-specific cognitive impairments include deficits in domains such as cognitive flexibility, verbal memory, working memory, planning, and psychomotor speed; which in general are associated with poor health behaviours, such as infrequent exercising and poor diet. Additional cognitive training may reverse these effects. Recent evidence suggests that working memory training is linked to self-control and, indirectly, to improved lifestyle behaviour including increased physical activity. The investigators hypothesise that enhancing cognitive performance through administering specific working memory training not only improves cognitive function but that it facilitates better adherence to a more active lifestyle and a healthier diet in COPD patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• primary diagnosis of COPD based on the Global Initiative for Chronic obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines
• Patients also need to provide written informed consent
• Be motivated as evaluated by the self-determination questionnaire

Exclusion Criteria:

• Disease and or disability limiting the ability to undergo a neuropsychological testing battery and/or to follow a working memory training (e.g., blindness)
• Neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's Disease or cerebrovascular disease)
• Insufficient mastery of the Dutch language
• Individuals who during the study period are or will be participating in a PR programme