Improving Cognitive Recovery
Cognitive recovery project
Do you sometimes feel wiped out, too exhausted to move? Recently I was in a shop discussing a new kitchen. The salesman was using computer software to design a new layout, I needed maximum concentration. After just ninety minutes I was mentally exhausted, just watching the possible options of what could go where had destroyed my power of concentration. I was too tired to talk and think straight.
Just half hour away from the computer screen and I felt better. I could now think and discuss simple options for the kitchen, but a full recovery would take longer. Can I relearn how to concentrate and improve my short-term memory? Loss of cognitive ability is something that affects so many people with MS, it has an enormous impact on our daily lives.
Improving Cognitive Recovery
Kings College London University would like to invite a small group of people to help design a research project that will aim to improve cognitive recovery for individuals with MS.
What is the purpose of the project?
The purpose of this project is to adapt an existing cognitive improvement therapy which involves the use of a computer programme called CIRCuiTSTM for people with MS. In this first phase of the project, the team at King’s College London are looking for people to help us understand the needs of people with MS and how best to deliver this new therapy. This group will be invited to attend a series of two online half-day workshops to ask for their opinions and feedback on:
- Living with cognitive difficulties.
- Possible adaptations to the existing CIRCuiTSTM computer programme.
After this part of the study has been designed, the wider project will then assess how easy it is for people to use, the potential benefits of the adapted therapy and computer programme. The findings from this study will help develop a larger study to investigate and report on this new therapy.
The researchers will not ask you to complete the therapy, just advise on how you think it should be delivered.
Who are the research team looking for?
The team at King’s College London are currently looking for people with either primary or secondary progressive MS who have difficulty with cognitive recovery and cognition. For example problems with concentration, memory or problem solving because of their condition. You will need to be:
– aged 18 years or older
– Be able to engage in discussions and provide feedback
– Speak English and be computer literate
What do you do if you are interested in taking part?
If you would like to speak to a member of the research team at King’s College London about taking part in this part of the study and receive an information sheet then please email sara.simblett@kcl.ac.uk. If, after hearing and reading more information about the study you are still interested in taking part you will be asked to complete a screening process before the workshop to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
Each person who takes part in the two online workshops will receive £300.
While there may be no direct benefit to you, participating in this study will contribute to research. It may improve cognitive improvement options for people with MS in the future. Your feedback will be valuable in shaping a therapy programme that could benefit others with similar cognitive difficulties.
November 2024
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