In the field of neurorehabilitation, cognitive training is used to improve or maintain the mental functions of patients. With the advancement of technology remote cognitive training offers an accessible and flexible alternative that can be as that can be as effective as traditional face-to-face therapies.
In this article, we will explore how professionals from different fields of neurorehabilitation (neuropsychology, occupational therapy, ergotherapy, speech or language therapy), can implement remote cognitive training programs to maximize benefits for their patients.
Advantages of remote cognitive training
Before we dive into how to perform online cognitive training, it is important to highlight its advantages:
- Accessibility: Patients can access the programs from anywhere with an Internet connection.
- Flexibility: Allows patients to perform activities at their own time and pace.
- Customization: Programs can be tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
- Remote Monitoring: Professionals can track patient progress in real time.
- Virtual Interaction: The possibility of videoconference sessions ( Zoom, Skype, Google Meet) allows direct and personalized communication with the patient.
Steps to Implement Remote Cognitive Training
1. Selecting Platforms and Tools
It is crucial to select a platform that is easy to use for both the practitioner and the patient and that offers the ability to customize programs according to the specific needs of each patient.
2. Initial Patient Assessment
Before starting any remote cognitive training program, it is essential to perform a comprehensive assessment of the patient, with validated tests and scales, medical history, as well as an interview to know their goals.
3. Designing a Customized Program
Based on the initial assessment, a personalized cognitive training program should be designed. This includes:
- Specific Goals: Establish clear and achievable goals for the patient.
- Appropriate Activities: Select activities and exercises that align with the patient’s goals.
- Session Planning: Create a session schedule that is realistic and sustainable for the patient.
4. Implementation and Supervision
During the implementation of the program, it is important to maintain constant supervision to ensure the patient’s progress. This may include:
- Videoconferencing Sessions: Use tools such as Zoom, Skype or Google Meet to conduct real-time monitoring and mentoring sessions. These sessions allow for direct interaction, providing immediate feedback and adjustment of activities as needed.
- Constant Feedback: Provide constant feedback to the patient to keep them motivated and engaged. If professional rehabilitation software has been implemented, it will provide direct feedback to the patient depending on the performance of the activities.
- Program Adjustment: Adjust the activities and the level of difficulty according to the patient’s progress. Rehametrics automatically adjusts the difficulty of the exercises.
5. Continuous Assessment and Adjustments
Ongoing assessment is key to the success of any remote cognitive training program. This involves:
- Regular Reassessments: Conduct periodic assessments to measure patient progress. In addition to test evaluations, the program itself should provide reports on the patient’s performance. Rehametrics includes automatic cognitive reports to see in detail the patient’s performance and progress.
- Goal Review: Adjust program goals as needed.
- Adaptation of Strategies: Modify strategies and activities based on the results of the reassessments.
