A Tablet-Based Game Tool for Cognition Training of Seniors with Mild Cognitive Impairment

The purpose of this study is to examine the acceptability and effectiveness of a cognitive training game application targeting elderly adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment. Such kind of impairment signifies one of the earliest stages of dementia and Alzheimer diseases. Ten serious games were designed and developed in the Android platform to train cognitive functions such as Attention, Visual Memory, Observation, Acoustic Memory, Language, Calculations, Orientation and Sensory Awareness. In particular this paper examines the feasibility of playing such games with the participation of a group of seniors (N = 6) in a pilot study. Usability assessment was also performed by collecting qualitative and quantitative data. Another dimension that investigated was the possibility of using this game tool as an alternative to traditional methods for evaluating cognitive functions. The results show that participants could learn quickly and understand the game mechanics. They also found the games easy to use and showed high enjoyment.