Comparison of internal cognitive training versus external cognitive training on mild cognitive impairment among elderly population

Abstract Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a common condition in the elderly population. It is characterized by confusion, disorientation, memory complaints, as well as restricted attention, learning, and language abilities. Objectives The objective of this study was to compare the effect of internal and external cognitive training in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Methods Twenty-six patients with mild cognitive impairment participated in this study. An equal number of participants (n=13) were allocated into two groups, i.e., the internal cognitive training group (group A) and external cognitive training (group B). Cognitive training session was administered 40 min per day, at a frequency of 2 sessions per week, for a period of 4 weeks for both groups, and aerobic exercise was also performed for 15 min per day, for a period of 4 weeks. Outcome measures were undertaken at baseline and at the end of the 4th week. Results The result shows a significant improvement on MoCA components in the internal cognitive training group than the external cognitive training group (P<0.05). Conclusion It was concluded that the internal cognitive training (ICT) shows significant improvement on mild cognitive impairment in elderly as compared to external cognitive training (ECT).