The feasibility, acceptability and preliminary efficacy of computerized cognitive rehabilitation therapy (CCRT) for mitigating neurocognitive decline was evaluated in African adults ≥50 years old. Eighty-one Ugandans with (n = 40) and without (n = 41) chronic human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) were allocated CCRT-i.e., 20-45-min cognitive training sessions with culturally adapted video games delivered via Captain's Log Software, or standard of care (SOC). Pre and post (i.e., 8-weeks later) intervention performance based neurocognitive tests, quality of life (QOL) and frailty related phenotype (FRP) were determined in all respondents. Multivariable linear regression estimated CCRT- vs. SOC-related differences (β) in neurocognitive batteries, QOL and FRP. Effect sizes (ES) for estimated β were calculated. CCRT protocol was completed by 92.8% of persons allocated to it. Regardless of HIV status, CCRT was associated with higher performance in learning tests than SOC-interference list (β = 1.00, 95%CI: (0.02, 1.98); ES = 0.43) and delayed recall (β = 1.04, 95%CI: (0.06, 2.02); ES = 0.47). CCRT effect on verbal fluency was clinically important (ES = 0.38), but statistical significance was not reached (β = 1.25, 95%CI: (-0.09, 2.58)). Among HIV-positive adults, clinically important post-CCRT improvements were noted for immediate recall (ES = 0.69), working memory (ES = 0.51), verbal fluency (ES = 0.51), and timed gait (ES = -0.44) tasks. Among HIV-negative adults, CCRT resulted in moderate post-intervention improvement in learning tests (ES = 0.45) and large decline in FRP (ES = -0.71), without a positive effect on simple attention and visuomotor coordination tasks. CCRT intervention is feasible among older Ugandan adults with potential benefit for learning and verbal fluency tests regardless of HIV status and lowering FRP in HIV-negative older adults.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS; aging; computerized cognitive rehabilitation therapy; frailty; neurocognitive impairment; quality of life.