Working Memory Training and Semantic Structuring Improves Remembering Future Events, Not Past Events

Abstract

Objectives. Memory training in combination with practice in semantic structuring and word fluency has been shown to improve memory performance. This study investigated the efficacy of a working memory training combined with exercises in semantic structuring and word fluency and examined whether training effects generalize to other cognitive tasks. Methods. In this double-blind randomized control study, 36 patients with memory impairments following brain damage were allocated to either the experimental or the active control condition, with both groups receiving 9 hours of therapy. The experimental group received a computer-based working memory training and exercises in word fluency and semantic structuring. The control group received the standard memory therapy provided in the rehabilitation center. Patients were tested on a neuropsychological test battery before and after therapy, resulting in composite scores for working memory; immediate, delayed, and prospective memory; word fluency; and attention. Results. The experimental group improved significantly in working memory and word fluency. The training effects also generalized to prospective memory tasks. No specific effect on episodic memory could be demonstrated. Conclusion. Combined treatment of working memory training with exercises in semantic structuring is an effective method for cognitive rehabilitation of organic memory impairment.

Working memory capacity links cognitive reserve with long-term memory in moderate to severe TBI: a translational approach

“…A more recent study in stroke patients tested the synergistic benefit from training WM coupled with a semantic structuring activity. The authors reported no benefit of training on their composite LTM measure [34]. The composite LTM measure was comprised of both short-delay and longdelay free recall scores from the CVLT.…”

“…It is realistic to hypothesize that neurologically impaired populations would gain more from cognitive training programs considering their cognitive systems are not operating near maximum efficiency [13]. There is some support for this hypothesis in brain-injured patients [31][32][33][34]. The degree to which WM training transfers to improvements in LTM in this population is less clear.…”

“…This composite measure may not be the most precise measure of LTM. Additionally, the reported inclusion criteria defined memory impairment as impairment in either learning, short delay or long delay free recall scores of the CVLT [34]. It is unclear whether we should expect WM training to benefit LTM when the reported studies do not intentionally recruit LTM impaired patients or when inclusion is based on an amorphous measure of memory impairment.…”

Recovery after brain damage: Is there any indication for generalization between different cognitive functions?

“…Some authors, like Klingberg (2010), Westerberg et al (2007), and Richter, Mödden, Eling, and Hildebrandt (2014), have argued that working memory may play a fundamental role for cognitive rehabilitation of other functions. On the other hand, Redick et al (2013) and Dunning, Holmes, and Gathercole (2013), found no transfer effects of working memory training on tests of other cognitive functions.…”

Initial feasibility and validity of a prospective memory training program in a substance use treatment population.

“…Greater working memory function predicts greater prospective memory function, and increasing working memory load worsens prospective memory performance (Smith, 2003; Smith & Bayen, 2005). As such, improvement in working memory may improve prospective memory (Richter, Modden, Eling, & Hildebrandt, 2015). Like prospective memory, working memory is impaired in substance-using populations (Crean, Crane, & Mason, 2011; Jovanovski, Erb, & Zakzanis, 2005; Martin et al, 2003; Mintzer & Stitzer, 2002; Murphy, Wareing, Fisk, & Montgomery, 2009; Ornstein et al, 2000; Rendell et al, 2009).…”