Exploring Brain Activation as a Predictor of Intention to Use Cognitive Training Digital Therapeutics: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Study

This study examines the neural underpinnings of the intention to use cognitive training digital therapeutics among older adults with subjective memory complaints. A total of 23 older adults with a clinical dementia rating score of 0.5-commonly interpreted as indicative of very mild cognitive impairment-participated in cognitive training using a smartphone application. Leveraging functional near-infrared spectroscopy during cognitive training and the technology acceptance model, this research investigates the predictive role of neural activation on the intention to use. Results revealed that higher activation in the right medial prefrontal cortex and reduced activation in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex during cognitive training were significantly associated with increased intention to use. The interplay between neural mechanisms in the motivational system and the cognitive control system at the prefrontal cortex level plays a critical role in shaping the intention to use.