Effetti di un programma di training sulle capacita cognitive e sull'umore di pazienti affetti da malattia di Alzheimer in fase iniziale

The aim of present study was to evaluate the effects of a training program on mood and cognitive performances in a group of patients affected by early stage Alzheimer's Disease. Eight patients attended the training program twice a week. This group was compared to a control group of 10 patients. The two groups did not differ significantly on the baseline examination on the variables: age, education, diagnosis, Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). All the subjects were evaluated by the same assessment on the baseline and after three months. The instruments used for testing were: MMSE, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS). The statistical analysis conducted by non parametric methods showed significant differences between the two groups on MMSE, GDS and ADAS. The analysis also showed significant improvement in the experimental group between the baseline and the three months evaluation for MMSE and Orientation ADAS score. We conclude that the program is useful to slow down the progression of cognitive impairments and to improve the mood in early stage Alzheimer's disease.