Assessing and Improving the Durability of Compensatory Cognitive Training for Older Veterans

Veterans have numerous risk factors (e.g., Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), cerebrovascular problems) for later-life cognitive and functional decline. Evidence supports the effectiveness of strategy-based cognitive rehabilitation therapies, including compensatory cognitive training (CCT), for such decline. However, questions remain about the length of time that CCT-driven improvements in cognitive and everyday function last, and whether additional 'booster' training sessions could provide additional benefit to aging Veterans who previously underwent treatment. This study examines the long-term durability of CCT in Veterans aged 55+ and provides an opportunity to develop and pilot test a series of CCT booster sessions that can be personalized toward individual everyday functional goals.

Inclusion Criteria: * Veterans aged 55 and older who are able to provide informed consent * Previous completion of the "Cognitive Rehabilitation for Older Veterans with Mild Cognitive Impairment" \[PI: Twamley, VA CSRD: I01CX001592\] study and received the ME-CCT intervention * Independently living * English-speaking: this is necessary to complete cognitive and functional testing and participate in booster development and other study procedures Exclusion Criteria: * Participation in sub-study 2 of this CDA, in which study participants assist with the design of booster intervention modules * DSM-5 criteria for current substance use disorder and has been substance abstinent for less than 30 days * History of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or other primary psychotic disorder * History of significant brain injury with loss of consciousness \>30 minutes * Auditory or visual impairments that would prevent ability to participate in booster sessions or ability to benefit from compensatory strategies