Cognitive rehabilitation program in patients with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study

Introduction: In recent years, there has been an increase of studies dedicated to cognitive rehabilitation in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS); however, few of these analyze the impact on such variables as cognitive reserve. The study aims to explore the effects of a cognitive rehabilitation program comprising a combination of cognitive and physical exercises, as well as group sessions to improve cognitive performance, emotional state, and cognitive reserve index.

Method: Fifty patients with MS were subdivided into 2 groups: the control group, which performed aerobic exercise (n=25), and the experimental group (n=25), which participated in the integrated cognitive rehabilitation program (ICRP). All participants were evaluated 3 times (baseline, post-treatment, and long-term) with the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests, Cognitive Reserve Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and a scale evaluating trait and state anxiety.

Results: Compared with the control group, patients in the experimental group showed improvements in cognitive function, with significant changes in measures of information processing speed, attention, memory, cognitive reserve index, and long-term mood.

Conclusions: The ICRP was effective in improving cognitive and emotional function in MS, and increased the cognitive reserve index.