Can Relational Training Improve Cognitive Functioning and Subjective Complaints in Older Adults? A Randomised Controlled Trial Using SMART

Slowing normal cognitive aging with cognitive training interventions has become a significant societal challenge. Recently, SMART (Strengthening Mental Abilities with Relational Training), a Relational Frame Theory-based intervention, has emerged as a promising intervention in the cognitive training literature. However, to our knowledge, the programme has not been applied in older adults, and there is need for validation using rigorous methods. This study compares the effects of SMART with Dual N-Back training in 105 older adults aged 62-93 with subjective cognitive complaints. Results showed that SMART successfully trained relational reasoning abilities, but there was no indication for transfer effects to neurological status, non-verbal IQ, depression, or quality of life. Both training groups demonstrated similar improvements in executive functioning. These findings suggest limited effectiveness of SMART in older adults, consistent with patterns in cognitive training literature where initial positive effects diminish after rigorous replication. This highlights the need for more rigorous studies on SMART, and on adaptations of the programme across diverse populations.