Improvement in executive function for older adults through smartphone apps: a randomized clinical trial comparing language learning and brain training.
Meltzer, J. A., Kates Rose, M., Le, A. Y., Spencer, K. A., Goldstein, L., Gubanova, A., . . . Bialystok, E. .
(2023)Aging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition.
DOI: 10.1080/13825585.2021.1991262
Abstract
Bilingualism has been linked to improved executive function and delayed onset of dementia, but it is unknown whether similar benefits can be obtained later in life through deliberate intervention. Given the logistical hurdles of second language acquisition in a randomized trial for older adults, few interventional studies have been done thus far. However, recently developed smartphone apps offer a convenient means to acquire skills in a second language and can be compared with brain training apps specifically designed to improve executive function. In a randomized clinical trial, 76 adults aged 65–75 were assigned to either 16 weeks of Spanish learning using the app Duolingo 30 minutes a day, an equivalent amount of brain training using the app BrainHQ, or a waitlist control condition. Executive function was assessed before and after the intervention with preregistered (NCT03638882) tests previously linked to better performance in bilinguals. For two of the primary measures: incongruent Stroop color naming and 2-back accuracy, Duolingo provided equivalent benefits as BrainHQ compared to a control group. On reaction time for N-back and Simon tests, the BrainHQ group alone experienced strong gains over the other two groups. Duolingo was rated as more enjoyable. These results suggest that app-based language learning may provide some similar benefits as brain training in improving executive function in seniors but has less impact on processing speed. However, future advancements in app design may optimize not only the acquisition of the target language but also the side benefits of the language learning experience.
The study aimed to see if Duolingo, a smartphone app for language learning, or Brain HQ, a smartphone app for cognitive training, could improve executive functions including attention, memory and problem solving. Researchers wanted to determine if learning a new language (Spanish) with Duolingo or doing brain training with Brain HQ would be more effective in improving cognitive function. The Duolingo group and Brain HQ group were compared to a control group which completed no training. The sample consisted of 76 older adults (aged 65-75 years).
Findings -
Participants in the Duolingo and Brain HQ groups completed 30minutes of training a day for 16 weeks. Participants in the Duolingo group showed improvement in attention and memory. However, participants in the Brain HQ group showed larger gains in attention and memory as well as improvements in speed and response time. Participants reported language learning as more enjoyable than brain training. Participants in the control group showed no improvements. The results suggest that both Duolingo and Brain HQ can help adults improve cognitive function, with Brain HQ showing larger improvements.
Strengths -
Randomised control trial design. Utilised apps that are accessible at home, making findings more relevant and practical.
Limitations -
The study lasted 16 weeks which means long term effects of the interventions were not measures. Changes in language proficiency or long-term benefits need further study.
Aim of study -
The study aimed to see if Duolingo, a smartphone app for language learning, or Brain HQ, a smartphone app for cognitive training, could improve executive functions including attention, memory and problem solving. Researchers wanted to determine if learning a new language (Spanish) with Duolingo or doing brain training with Brain HQ would be more effective in improving cognitive function. The Duolingo group and Brain HQ group were compared to a control group which completed no training. The sample consisted of 76 older adults (aged 65-75 years).
Findings -
Participants in the Duolingo and Brain HQ groups completed 30minutes of training a day for 16 weeks. Participants in the Duolingo group showed improvement in attention and memory. However, participants in the Brain HQ group showed larger gains in attention and memory as well as improvements in speed and response time. Participants reported language learning as more enjoyable than brain training. Participants in the control group showed no improvements. The results suggest that both Duolingo and Brain HQ can help adults improve cognitive function, with Brain HQ showing larger improvements.
Strengths -
Randomised control trial design. Utilised apps that are accessible at home, making findings more relevant and practical.
Limitations -
The study lasted 16 weeks which means long term effects of the interventions were not measures. Changes in language proficiency or long-term benefits need further study.