Strategic Memory Alzheimer’s Rehabilitation Training (SMART): Cognitive Intervention for Amnestic-type Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Dementia is a growing world-wide phenomenon, impacting more than six million people in the United States. Despite its high projected prevalence, it is a significantly under-represented phenomena, with estimates ranging from 15-25% of the general population. The effect of the aging of the population and significant increase in life expectancy has combined to catapult dementia into the range of one of most alarming healthcare problems. The SMART Memory Program is a cognitive intervention designed to help promote the reduction of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early-stage dementia. Although it has been found useful in all forms of dementia, it is particularly useful in amnestic-type MCI. A longitudinal study examined 356 clients (220 females, all amnestic-type MCI) across an approximate two-year span. Results revealed an improvement of approximately 3 MoCA points at the conclusion of a program session. Particular improvements were noted in delayed recall. These results were found to be particularly beneficial secondary to the advent of the Kirtan Kriya methodology.