Twenty Years of the Kf-msmt®: Cognitive Training in Neurological Disorders 2528

Research Objectives New learning and memory decline is common in several neurological disorders and often seen in the context of healthy aging. The Kessler Foundation modified Story Memory Technique (KF-mSMT®) was developed to ameliorate learning and memory impairments in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)^1–3. Since its inception, its feasibility and efficacy have also been tested with other neurological pathologies, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI)⁴, healthy aging, and mild cognitive impairment⁵. The main goals of the current presentation are: 1) review the last twenty years of testing the feasibility and efficacy of the KF-mSMT® protocol, 2) present participants' perspectives about the cognitive training protocol, and 3) discuss the future of this evidence-based memory rehabilitation protocol.
The KF-mSMT® protocol is a 10-session structured cognitive training protocol that applies imagery and context to facilitate learning. It has been developed and tested following the NIH Stage Model of Behavior Interventions Research principles. In each trial, the KF-mSMT® is contrasted with an active placebo condition in which the placebo control group meets with the therapist at the same frequency as the cognitive training group, engaging in non-training tasks to control for professional contact and disease progression.

RCTs using the KF-mSMT® in the laboratory setting have provided Class I evidence of its efficacy in individuals with MS, TBI, and aging across three realms of function: objective cognitive performance, brain functioning, and everyday life. These RCTs have also demonstrated long-term maintenance of training effects. Participants express satisfaction with the cognitive training protocol and the daily application of learned skills.
Conclusions The last twenty years have proven that strengthening learning and memory in individuals with neurological disorders through additional cognitive resources can slow cognitive decline and maximize functioning and quality of life.