Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback Using fNIRS Improves Cognitive Function in Older Adults

Abstract

This study examined the effects of a 4-week cognitive training program with neurofeedback (CT-NF) among 86 healthy adults (M = 66.34 years, range 54–84) randomized to either a treatment (app-based ABC games) or control (Tetris) group. Participants completed seven cognitive assessments, pre- and post-intervention, and measured their cortical brain activity using a XB-01 functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) brain sensor, while engaging in CT-NF. The treatment (ABC) group showed significant (pre/post-intervention) improvements in memory (MEM), verbal memory (VBM), and composite cognitive function, while the control group did not. However, both groups showed significant improvements in processing speed (PS) and executive function (EF). In line with other studies, we found that strength of cortical brain activity (measured during CT-NF) was associated with both cognitive (pre and post) and game performance. In sum, our findings suggest that CT-NF and specifically ABC exercises, confer improved cognition in the domains of MEM, VBM, PS, and EF.

The Effect of Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback on Cognitive Function in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…The sample’s mean age ranged from 21.43 to 65.96, with females accounting for 39.29% to 75.58% of the total. Regarding the type of cognitive intervention, two studies used multi-domain (e.g., memory and processing speed) intervention [ 27 , 49 ], and the other two studies used working memory training [ 26 , 28 ]. Three studies used NIRS for neurofeedback [ 27 , 28 , 49 ], and only one study used EEG for neurofeedback [ 26 ].…”

“…Regarding the type of cognitive intervention, two studies used multi-domain (e.g., memory and processing speed) intervention [ 27 , 49 ], and the other two studies used working memory training [ 26 , 28 ]. Three studies used NIRS for neurofeedback [ 27 , 28 , 49 ], and only one study used EEG for neurofeedback [ 26 ]. For the control group, one study used CT with SHAM neurofeedback [ 28 ].…”

“…For the control group, one study used CT with SHAM neurofeedback [ 28 ]. All three remaining studies employed an active control group, with another group receiving CT or neurofeedback alone [ 26 , 27 , 49 ]. The average intervention time per session ranged from 21.25 to 30 min (10 to 60 min), from four sets over two weeks to every day for four weeks.…”

“…Two studies provided results regarding episodic/long-term memory ( Figure 2 A). Of those two studies, Nouchi et al (2022) [ 27 ] provided results for the episodic memory test of the WMS-R. Accevedo et al (2022) [ 49 ] provided the visual/verbal memory test from the CNS vital sign [ 36 ]. Meta-analysis using all studies revealed that CTNF showed a statistically significant positive effect on episodic/long-term memory (I 2 = 16.69%, SMD = 0.38, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.64).…”

“…Three studies provided the results about tasks related to executive function ( Figure 2 B). Two studies used the Stroop task [ 27 , 28 ], and one [ 49 ] used the executive function task in the CNS vital sign [ 36 ]. Hosseini et al (2016) [ 28 ] also used the trail making test and MCAB.…”