Cognitive Remediation Therapy for Brain Tumor Patients: Improving Working Memory

Cognitive Remediation Therapy for Brain Tumor Patients: Improving Working Memory

To investigate a computer-based Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) for brain tumor patients at the Massey Cancer Center on measures of cognitive functioning (e.g., working memory, attention, processing speed, language, visuospatial functioning, immediate and delayed memory, or executive functioning) over time.

Participants will be recruited by their neuropsychologist in the VCU Massey Cancer Center following standard neuropsychological evaluation (their neuro-oncologist may refer them to this study). If meeting inclusion criteria (described in later sections on participants), participants will be recruited and enrolled in the study. Two groups will be formed: High grade gliomas (WHO grade III or IV; n=15) and Low grade gliomas (WHO grade II; n=15). Participants will be followed over 11 months. The two groups will follow identical study timelines.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Confirmed primary brain tumor diagnosis via MRI and their neuro-oncologist
• A minimum of 2 months post-surgical resection or biopsy(if applicable)
• and/or a minimum 1 month post radiation treatment (if applicable)
• Karnofsky performance status more than 60
• Estimated intelligence at least 80 (standard score)
• Demonstrated attention difficulties (T-score of at least 65 on attention questionnaire or 1 or more standard deviations below mean on direct attention measures)
• No history of cognitive disorder
• No history of mood disorder
• Predicted life expectancy of at least 12 months
• Computer capability at home or provided a departmental iPad Mini to borrow for study purposes
• Primarily English speaking
• Aged 18+ (for which there is available age-adjusted neuropsychological testing standardization / normative data)

Exclusion Criteria:

• If they are not patients of Massey Cancer Center or do not meet the inclusion criteria listed above