A working memory intervention for children with prenatal alcohol exposure: Pilot study

Abstract

Cogmed^© is a computerized working memory training program designed to improve attention and working memory. We examined the short- and long-term impacts of a 25-session Cogmed^© intervention on working memory and other cognitive and learning domains in children with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and typically developing children. Participants included 38 children (4 - 13 years old) from Alberta, Canada in two groups: PAE (n = 20) and typically developing (n = 18). Significant improvements in areas of working memory and attentional control for both the PAE and the typically developing group were reported immediately after intervention completion (short-term impact). The gains on some measures were retained at five-week follow up (long-term impact). Preliminary findings indicate that computerized interventions may positively impact WM and attention control and that these changes may be maintained after a delay period.

Keywords:

• Prenatal alcohol exposure
• working memory
• intervention

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, at the University of Alberta.