Neuropsychological approach to subjective cognitive complaints in cognitively unimpaired older people: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective: A systemized approach to subjective cognitive complaints (SCCs) in elderly people is needed owing to the high prevalence of such complaints and their impact on the psychosocial well-being of those affected. The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review of the characteristics and effectiveness of intervention programmes that use a neuropsychological approach to target SCCs in cognitively unimpaired older people and that are tested in randomized controlled trials. Methods:The search included a time-unlimited query of Scopus, PsycInfo and Medline, yielding 215 articles, of which only 7 met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results:The number of intervention programmes was very limited (11 interventions), but diverse, with cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, psychoeducation and cognitive restructuring all used to address SCCs. Conclusions: Interventions including only cognitive stimulation were not effective in reducing SCCs, but interventions including cognitive stimulation and psychoeducation, physical exercise, and group sessions and discussions reinforced by the therapist were effective.

Cognitive Effects of a Cognitive Stimulation Programme on Trained Domains in Older Adults with Subjective Memory Complaints: Randomised Controlled Trial

“…It is clearly demonstrated that CS helps to counteract age-related cognitive decline [ 29 ], which could have implications for public health policies focused on promoting healthy cognitive ageing and design of prevention and intervention programmes for older adults with subjective memory complaints [ 30 ]. However, more studies need to be conducted on people with SMC to detail the effects of these interventions [ 29 , 31 ] in preventing future progression to dementia [ 32 ].…”