Timing of Cognitive Training for ICU Survivors' Cognitive Impairment
(OPTIMIZE Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the optimal time of day for cognitive training exercises in individuals recently in the ICU. It seeks to determine whether morning (COG-AM) or afternoon (COG-PM) exercises better enhance brain function and daily rhythms. Participants will engage in morning or afternoon brain training on a laptop or continue with usual care. This trial is suitable for adults aged 60 and older who have recently spent at least 24 hours in an ICU and do not have dementia. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could improve recovery strategies for ICU patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this cognitive training intervention is safe for ICU survivors?
Research has shown that cognitive training programs like COG-AM and COG-PM have not raised specific safety concerns in past studies. These treatments involve short, daily laptop sessions, which most participants find easy to manage. Although specific safety data for ICU survivors is lacking, similar cognitive training methods have been used without major issues.
These treatments are non-invasive, meaning they don't involve procedures that break the skin or enter the body, which typically reduces the risk of side effects. Since this trial is in the "Not Applicable" phase, it focuses on assessing how well participants can handle and accept the training, rather than testing for safety. This phase usually indicates that earlier research found these treatments safe enough to proceed.
In summary, while detailed safety data is not available, the nature of the treatment and the trial phase suggest it is likely safe for participants.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the timing of cognitive training for ICU survivors because it explores how the timing of rehabilitation exercises can impact recovery. Unlike standard post-ICU care, which typically includes physical and occupational therapy at any time, this trial looks at whether morning (COG-AM) or afternoon (COG-PM) sessions of computer-based cognitive training can make a difference. The idea is that our brains might be more receptive to training at specific times of the day, potentially speeding up recovery and improving cognitive outcomes for ICU survivors. By tailoring the timing of these cognitive exercises, we might uncover a simple yet effective way to enhance treatment outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for ICU survivors' cognitive impairment?
Research has shown that brain exercises can improve memory and thinking skills in people who have been in the ICU. Starting these exercises early can reduce memory and thinking problems, especially in very sick patients. Studies have found that about one-third of ICU survivors experience these issues. In this trial, participants will receive either the COG-AM or COG-PM treatments, which are computer-based brain exercises designed to boost brain function. Sessions occur at different times of the day to determine optimal effectiveness. The aim is to help ICU survivors enhance their memory and thinking skills.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Maya N Elias, PhD, MA, RN
Principal Investigator
University of Washington
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for ICU survivors aged 60 or older who have stayed in the ICU for at least 24 hours, are fluent in English, and were independent before hospital admission. It's not for those with severe arm paralysis, recent stroke or brain injury, multiple ICU stays this admission, Alzheimer's/dementia history or anti-dementia meds use, bipolar disorder/schizophrenia history, or severe visual impairment.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a computerized cognitive training intervention either in the morning or afternoon/evening, in addition to usual care
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- COG-AM
- COG-PM
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Washington
Lead Sponsor
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
Collaborator
American Association of Critical Care Nurses
Collaborator