Development of Cognitive Retraining Module for Cancer and Alzheimer’s Patient

Introduction: The risk for non-communicable disorders (NCD) are increasing among adults. The prevalence rate of non-communicable diseases is high in India. These patients often suffer from cognitive decline along with physical and psychological issues during the illness. To manage cognitive dysfunction among chronic illness, Cognitive Retraining Therapy (CRT) have been emphasized by the professionals.  Aim and Methodology: The present study aims to develop cognitive retraining module for patients with cancer and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Several search engines were used for the identification of the literature. Original studies, research articles, randomized controlled trials done in last 20 years were selected for the review. PRISMA guidelines were used and related literature was analyzed by the reviewer and included in the data synthesis. Based on the review, module was developed and further validated by the experts in the field of neuropsychology, psycho-oncology, clinical psychology and geriatric psychology. Summary of Results: Current cognitive retraining module focused on attention, executive and memory function of cancer and Alzheimer patients. About seventy activities based on the above domains were included in the module. Each activity took 15-20 minutes, graded level of difficulty, paper-pencil mode with emphasis on verbal and visual modality. Implications: Cognitive retraining module is non-pharmacological, manualized and culturally appropriated intervention for patients with cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.