A Multi-Modal Combination Intervention to Promote Cognitive Function in Older Intensive Care Unit Survivors

Using a 2 x 2 factorial design, 100 English- or Spanish-speaking older ICU survivors will be enrolled after discharge out of ICU and randomized to one of 4 combinations of two interventions: SLEEP and COG. We propose that the combination of a nighttime sleep promotion intervention \[SLEEP: nighttime use of earplugs and eye masks\] and a daytime computerized cognitive training intervention \[COG: daily 30-minute cognitive training sessions\] may produce synergistic effects on cognitive function to mitigate delirium and reduce risk of incident Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Because circadian dysrhythmia contributes to cognitive decline, chronotherapeutic timing of the COG intervention could maximize intervention efficacy. Specific Aim 1: Test the separate and combined effects of SLEEP and COG \[SLEEP + COG, SLEEP, COG\] versus an active control \[AC\] in improving cognitive function for older ICU survivors. Specific Aim 2: Examine circadian rhythm parameters of continuous body temperature (iButton: wearable sensor) to determine the optimal window for timing of the COG intervention. Specific Aim 3: Examine if the effects of each intervention on cognitive function are mediated by sleep and activity, and examine if selected biological and clinical factors moderate intervention effects. Exploratory Aim 4: Explore the effect of each intervention on cognitive function at 1 month and incident Alzheimer's disease and related dementias at 6 months and 12 months post-hospital discharge.