Measurement and Training of Selective Attention in Acquired Brain Injury Patients: A Pilot Study

Selective attention deficits have been linked to increased distractibility, mental fatigue, and sensory overload in patients with acquired brain injury (ABI). Research on measuring and training selective attention is limited and focused on a single sensory modality. In the current study, we tested the psychometric properties of a new, digitalized selective attention measure, the adapted Bourdon-Wiersma test in 26 healthy participants. We also used this measure to test the efficacy of a new computerized selective attention training called “The Botanist and the Animals” in 17 ABI patients. The training was hypothesized to help patients regain control over sensory experiences, without intending to restore cognitive functions. Both the measure and training involved multiple sensory modalities. Results showed variable psychometric properties of the adapted Bourdon-Wiersma test. Selective attention training in ABI patients showed near transfer effects on this measure, although only 35% of the patients showed reliable improvements. No far transfer effects to other cognitive measures were observed, yet exploratory analyses indicated improvements in self-reported rehabilitation participation, cognitive difficulties, and quality of life. Potentially, active engagement in the training helped ABI patients to boost their confidence in daily life, yet the specificity and long-term effects of the training need further assessment.