Pressler, Susan J.Jung, MiyeonGradus-Pizlo, IrminaTitler, Marita G.Smith, Dean G.Gao, SujuanLake, Kittie ReidBurney, HeatherClark, David G.Wierenga, Kelly L.Dorsey, Susan G.Giordani, Bruno2023-12-152023-12-152022Pressler SJ, Jung M, Gradus-Pizlo I, et al. Randomized Controlled Trial of a Cognitive Intervention to Improve Memory in Heart Failure. J Card Fail. 2022;28(4):519-530. doi:10.1016/j.cardfail.2021.10.008https://hdl.handle.net/1805/37351Background: The objective of this 3-arm randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy of computerized cognitive training (CCT) in improving primary outcomes of delayed-recall memory and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels; and the secondary outcomes were working memory, instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with heart failure (HF). Methods and results: Patients (n = 256) were randomly assigned to 8 weeks of CCT using BrainHQ, computerized crossword puzzles active control intervention, and usual care. All patients received weekly nurse-enhancement interventions. Data were collected at enrollment and baseline visits and at 10 weeks and 4 and 8 months. In mixed effects models, there were no statistically significant group or group-by-time differences in outcomes. There were statistically significant differences over time in all outcomes in all groups. Patients improved over time on measures of delayed-recall memory, working memory, IADLs, and HRQL and had decreased serum BDNF. Conclusions: CCT did not improve outcomes compared with the active control intervention and usual care. Nurse-enhancement interventions may have led to improved outcomes over time. Future studies are needed to test nurse-enhancement interventions in combination with other cognitive interventions to improve memory in persons with HF.en-USPublisher PolicyHeart failureCognitive dysfunctionComputerized cognitive trainingNurse-enhancement interventionArticle