SCGs as a Proxy for Determining the Cognitive Status of Older Adults

NCT06367231 | Completed

• 1 other identifier: Pro00134554
• Study Type: observational
• Target: 6
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 8

Brief Summary

Detecting memory problems early is crucial for treating conditions like Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), which often leads to dementia. Currently, doctors use tests in clinics to check for these issues. However, there's a growing need for better methods to monitor our cognitive skills over time. Computer games emerge as a cost-effective solution for assessing the brain functions of older adults. In our study, we are investigating the potential of computer games to reflect the cognitive skills of older adults. We developed the VibrantMinds platform, featuring five games: Whack-a-Mole, Bejeweled, Mahjong Solitaire, Word Search, and Memory Game. We have evaluated these games for ease of use, enjoyment, and their impact on brain functions. Now, our goal is to determine whether these games can offer valuable insights into the cognitive skills of older adults. We are collecting demographic data, game-playing data, and cognitive test results. Our analysis will determine the correlation between game data, cognitive test outcomes, and demographic information. Additionally, we will assess both the perceived and observed engagement of older adults as they play the games.

Conditions

Mild Cognitive Impairment; Dementia; Alzheimer Disease; Healthy Aging; Cognitive Decline

Keywords

Serious computer game; computer games; VibrantMinds

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (1)

• Cognition - Global

  The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is a brief 30-point test used to screen for cognitive dysfunction in areas including memory, language, visuospatial skills, executive functions, attention, concentration, and orientation. A score of 26 or above is considered normal. Lower scores suggest potential cognitive impairment.

  At each session (3 sessions total, once per week, one week apart)

Secondary Outcomes (4)

• Cognition - Global

  At each session (3 sessions total, once per week, one week apart)

• Cognition - Executive Function

  At each session (3 sessions total, once per week, one week apart)

• Game Performance

  Obtained during each game (game played at each session, once per week, one week apart)

• Game Engagement

  At each session (3 sessions total, once per week, one week apart)

Study Arms (1)

Serious Computer Game Intervention

Older Adults (healthy), Older adults with MCI, older adults with dementia Each participant will undergo three sessions, spaced one week apart. These sessions will take place either at locations that support the research team's activities or at the participants' homes, offering flexibility to accommodate individual circumstances. The format of these sessions can vary, being either group-based or individual. Each session is designed to last approximately one hour, with a maximum duration of 90 minutes to ensure thoroughness without overwhelming participants.

Other: VibrantMinds

Interventions

VibrantMinds OTHER

We are exploring the potential of computer games to reveal insights into the cognitive abilities of older adults. We developed the VibrantMinds (https://vibrant-minds.org/vibrantminds2/start) platform, featuring five games: Whack-a-Mole, Bejeweled, Mahjong Solitaire, Word Search, and Memory Game. Our evaluation focused on the usability of these games, their appeal to users, and their effectiveness in enhancing cognitive functions. The next phase of our study aims to determine whether these games can offer meaningful data on the cognitive skills of older adults.

Also known as: Serious Computer Games

Serious Computer Game Intervention

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 65 Years+
• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: Yes
• Age Groups: Older Adult (65+)
• Sampling Method: Non-Probability Sample

Study Population

Older healthy adults (cognitively intact) Older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment Older adults with Dementia

You may qualify if:

• Reside in Calgary and/or Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
• sufficient English language skills to converse in English with research staff

You may not qualify if:

• Moderate or severe limitations in the control or movement of the upper extremity (e.g., severe arthritis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis)
• Visual and hearing impairments
• Attention deficit

Sponsors & Collaborators

• University of Alberta: lead

Study Sites (8)

Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories

Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 2J3, Canada

Location

CapitalCare Corporate Services

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Location

Edmonton Life Long Learners

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Location

Institute for Continuing Care Education and Research

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Location

Shepherd's Care Foundation

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Location

St. Michael's Long Term Care Centre,

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Location

Sherwood Care

Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada

Location

Tofield Health Centre

Tofield, Alberta, Canada

Location

Related Links

• VibrantMinds Platform

MeSH Terms

Conditions

Cognitive Dysfunction; Dementia; Alzheimer Disease

Condition Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Cognition Disorders; Neurocognitive Disorders; Mental Disorders; Brain Diseases; Central Nervous System Diseases; Nervous System Diseases; Tauopathies; Neurodegenerative Diseases

Study Design

• Study Type: observational
• Observational Model: COHORT
• Time Perspective: PROSPECTIVE
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: SPONSOR

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: March 23, 2024
• First Posted: April 16, 2024
• Study Start: May 1, 2024
• Primary Completion: May 1, 2025
• Study Completion: May 1, 2025
• Last Updated: August 8, 2025

Record last verified: 2025-08

Data Sharing

• IPD Sharing: Will not share

Locations

CA (8)