Psychol Health Med. 2026 Jun 6:1-22. doi: 10.1080/13548506.2026.2682563. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
To review extant literature for the use of digital technology to deliver cognitive training perioperatively to prevent or mitigate postoperative delirium (POD). Increasing rates of surgical care place pressures on healthcare systems. POD is a prevalent complication in older adults, worsening patient outcomes and up to 40% may be preventable. Since preoperative cognitive dysfunction is a primary risk factor, understanding the impact of technology-assisted cognitive enhancement on POD may improve patient experience and alleviate costs. Five databases were searched, and articles were reviewed by two investigators. Clinical trials that used digital technology perioperatively to prevent POD in older adults and written in English or French were included in the study. Relevant information was extracted. Out of the 630 articles identified, six (n = 6) were included. Surgical type, targeted cognitive domains and intervention dosing varied, exclusion criteria were restrictive and effectiveness was both positive and null. Relatively few relevant studies were identified indicating the literature is in its infancy. While two of the studies showed positive outcome trends, further research is needed to address adherence, modifiability of cognitive training programs, intervention dosage and less restrictive sampling.
PMID:42251465 | DOI:10.1080/13548506.2026.2682563