This randomized, controlled trial (RCT) evaluates the benefits of memory and problem solving training compared to supportive therapy in individuals with Parkinson's Disease with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and their support persons. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive memory and problem solving training or supportive therapy for 2-months. A 6-month follow up evaluation will establish if benefits remain over time. Impact of these therapies on thinking abilities, physical health, and patient and support person ratings of thinking skills, mood and quality of life will be evaluated. The memory and problem solving training is hypothesized to result in greater improvements and/or stability of function on neuropsychological tests of attention, working memory, learning, and memory skills compared to the supportive therapy condition. Both conditions are hypothesized to result in improved mood and quality of life ratings. Results from this study will determine whether memory and problem solving therapies and supportive therapy are easily used by and beneficial for individuals with Parkinson's Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment. If positive benefit is observed, information from this study will be used to further optimize these therapies for larger trials designed to evaluate the value of the therapies for individuals with Parkinson's Disease and their support persons.
The memory and problem solving training consists of a day calendar manual and note taking system and problem solving techniques. The supportive therapy offers patients and support persons the opportunity to discuss and reflect upon both Parkinson's Disease and non-Parkinson's Disease related problems.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
32
8 weekly 1 hour sessions of memory compensation and problem-solving strategies
8 weekly 1 hour sessions of non-directive supportive therapy.
VCU Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center
Richmond, Virginia, United States
California Verbal Learning Test-II Long Delay Free Recall Scaled Score Change Over 10 Weeks
Change in California Verbal Learning Test-II Long Delay Free Recall Scaled Score from Baseline and 10 weeks
Time frame: Change from Baseline in California Verbal Learning Test-II Long Delay Free Recall Scaled Score at 10 weeks
Linear Analog Scale Assessment Overall Well Being Raw Score Change Over 10 Weeks
Change in Linear Analog Scale Assessment Overall Well Being Raw Score from Baseline and 10 weeks
Time frame: Change from Baseline in Linear Analog Scale Assessment Overall Well Being Raw Score at 10 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.