Work

Impact of Chatbot-Based Cognitive Training on Cognitive Function and White Matter Integrity in Cognitively Unimpaired Older Adults: Randomized Controlled Trial

Year: 2026

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cognitive training may enhance cognition and support brain health during aging, but few trials have evaluated readily accessible chatbot-based programs with neuroimaging outcomes. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a chatbot-based cognitive training program on white matter microstructural organization and cognition in cognitively unimpaired older adults. METHODS: In a single-blind randomized controlled trial, 72 cognitively unimpaired older adults were assigned to chatbot-based cognitive training (30 min/day, 5 days/week for 12 weeks; n=37) or a no-intervention control (n=35). Diffusion tensor imaging at baseline and 12 weeks quantified fractional anisotropy (FA) in predefined white matter tracts, and cognition was assessed with the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. RESULTS: Groups were comparable at baseline. After 12 weeks, the training group showed significantly less FA reduction than controls in the bilateral tapetum and right posterior thalamic radiation, surviving false discovery rate control (P<.05). The training group also improved on Paired Associates Learning (PAL), an episodic memory measure (P=.04). PAL improvement was positively associated with FA change in the right posterior thalamic radiation and right sagittal stratum (false discovery rate-adjusted P=.04 for each). CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that a 12-week chatbot-based cognitive training program may support episodic memory and the relative maintenance of white matter microstructural organization in selected pathways in cognitively unimpaired older adults, consistent with a brain-maintenance framework. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CRIS KCT0004630; https://tinyurl.com/4xfesb68.

Source: JMIR Aging

DOI: 10.2196/94127

Authors: Bori R Kim, Eunhee Kim, Soo Mee Lim, Jinwoo Kim, Jee Hyang Jeong, Geon Ha Kim

Institutions: Ewha Womans University, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Yonsei University

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,605