Effects of Cognitive Speed of Processing Training Among Older Adults With Heart Failure

Objective: Cognitive deficits pose serious problems for older adults with heart failure (HF). Cognitive speed of processing training improves cognition among older adults but has not been examined among older adults with HF.

Method: Data from the ACTIVE study were used to examine the effects of cognitive speed of processing training on cognitive and functional performance among older adults with HF.

Results: Of the 54 participants included in the analyses, 23 who were randomized to cognitive training performed significantly better on a composite of everyday speed of processing from pre- to post-training compared with 31 participants who were randomized to the control group, F(1, 51) = 28.67, p ≤ .001, [Formula: see text] = .360.

Discussion: Results indicate that speed of processing training may improve everyday cognitive performance among older adults with HF. Future studies should investigate the longitudinal effects of cognitive training with HF patients.