Investigating message framing to improve adherence to technology-based cognitive interventions

Psychol Aging. 2021 Dec;36(8):974-982. doi: 10.1037/pag0000629. Epub 2021 Aug 30.

Abstract

A cognitive intervention study was conducted with the purpose of exploring methods to improve adherence to a technology-based cognitive intervention and uncover individual differences that predict adherence (N = 120). The study was divided into two phases: Phase 1, in which participants were asked to follow a prescribed schedule of training that involved gamified neuropsychological tests administered via tablet, and Phase 2, in which participants were asked to play as frequently as they wished. Positive- and negative-framed messages about brain health were delivered via the software program, and measures of cognition, technology proficiency, self-efficacy, technology attitudes, and belief in the benefits of cognitive training were collected. Generalized linear mixed-effects models revealed that positive-framed messages encouraged greater adherence over negative-framed messages, but this effect was restricted to Phase 2 of the study in the absence of social pressure. Measures of memory and self-efficacy demonstrated some, but limited, ability to predict individual differences in adherence. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

MeSH terms

  • Aging*
  • Attitude*
  • Cognition
  • Humans
  • Self Efficacy
  • Technology