Cognitive Training Intervention for Heart Failure Patients: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of 'Cognitive Training' on cognitive functions, self-care, medication adherence, QOL, functional capacity and satisfaction level among HF patients.

Materials and methods: In the current randomised controlled trial, 60 HF patients were enrolled from the cardiology outpatient department by total enumeration sampling technique and randomised into the 30 control and 30 experimental group participants using a random number table. A socio-demographic cum clinical profile sheet, Montreal cognitive assessment, self-care of HF index, Hill-Bone medication adherence scale, Minnesota living with HF questionnaire (MLHFQ), 6-min walk test and satisfaction questionnaire were used for collecting data and pre-test was done at the time of enrolment. The experimental group participants received cognitive training through face-to-face counselling sessions provided by the researcher along with routine care. Control group participants received routine care. Post-test was done at the end of the 12^th week to assess the impact of Cognitive training on cognitive functions and other variables. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data.

Results: Significant improvement was observed in cognitive functions which include memory (P < 0.001), executive functions (P < 0.001) and attention and concentration (P < 0.001) among the experimental group participants in the 12^th week. Furthermore, significant improvement was observed in self-care maintenance (P < 0.001), self-care management (0.04), self-care confidence (P < 0.001), medication adherence (P < 0.001), QOL (P < 0.001), functional capacity (0.002) as well as satisfaction with care provided.

Conclusion: Cognitive training was found to be effective in terms of improvement in cognitive functions and it should be part of the routine intervention in healthcare settings for better patient outcomes.