RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Remediation Program Via a "Serious Game" for the Cognitive Functions of Multiple Sclerosis Patients

This study is investigating a new way to help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) improve their memory and thinking speed. Many people with MS experience difficulties with how quickly they process information, learn new things, and remember them. This study will use a special computer program, sometimes called a 'serious game,' designed to be engaging while also training these brain functions. Researchers want to compare how well this game works against the standard care for MS in improving these abilities. The ultimate goal is to find more effective and easier-to-access ways to support people with MS in their daily lives, helping them manage potential challenges with work, social activities, and overall quality of life.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Lille Catholic University

Enrolment target

150

Start

08 Oct 2021

Estimated completion

01 Mar 2027

Multiple Sclerosis Memory Learning

What is this study about?

Many people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) find that their memory and thinking skills can be affected. This can include how quickly they process information, their ability to learn and remember new things, pay attention, and make plans. These changes often happen early in the course of MS, even in mild cases, and can sometimes make daily life, work, and social activities more challenging. Although these issues are quite common, there's still a lot to learn about the best ways to help people improve their cognitive functions.

This study aims to explore a new approach to cognitive 'remediation.' Traditional methods can sometimes be time-consuming and may not always provide lasting benefits. This research is focusing on a 'serious game,' which is a computer program designed to be engaging and fun, but also specifically created to train and improve thinking and memory skills. The idea is that a game-based approach might be more appealing, easier to stick with, and more effective for people with MS, especially those who are still working or leading busy lives.

The main goal is to see if playing this special game regularly can help people with MS think more quickly and improve their ability to learn new information and remember it. Researchers will compare how patients using this game progress against those receiving their usual MS care. By understanding this, the study hopes to find better ways to support people with MS in managing their day-to-day lives and improving their overall well-being.

Key takeaways

Exploring a new computer game to help MS patients improve memory and thinking speed.
Aims to find more accessible and effective ways to manage cognitive challenges in MS.
Compares the game's effectiveness against standard MS care.
Participation involves using the game and undergoing memory assessments.
Could offer a new tool for managing daily life impacts of MS on cognition.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to have a diagnosis of relapsing-remitting or progressive multiple sclerosis and be between 18 and 65 years old. You should have noticed some difficulties with memory or thinking, and this will be confirmed by an initial memory test where your score is a bit lower than average in at least one area, including certain BICAMS tests.

It's important that you haven't had an MS relapse or received steroid treatment in the last 6 weeks or 4 weeks respectively. You also shouldn't be taking certain types of medication called neuroleptics, and you need to have a working internet connection at home. Before joining, you'll need to read and sign a consent form, showing you understand what the study involves.

There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. These include having very severe memory or thinking problems, already being part of another study about memory, or having other serious neurological or mental health conditions (apart from MS and mild anxiety/depression). You also can't join if you can't understand spoken or written information, or if physical difficulties would prevent you from using the computer game.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
Do you have relapsing-remitting or progressive MS?
Do you have some concerns about your memory or thinking?
Have you not had an MS relapse or steroid treatment in the last 6 weeks/4 weeks?
Do you have a working internet connection at home?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will be asked to use a special computer program, known as a 'serious game,' designed to help with thinking and memory. We don't have full details here on how often or for how long you would play the game, or how many visits to the clinic would be involved. However, the study aims to assess your memory and thinking skills before starting and again after a period of using the game. There will be assessments where you undergo memory and thinking tests to track your progress.

Generally, clinical trials involve regular check-ups with the study team to monitor your health and how you are responding. You would most likely continue with your usual MS care during the study. The total duration of your participation isn't specified, but cognitive remediation studies often involve several weeks or months of intervention and follow-up.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer potential benefits, such as improving your memory and thinking speed through the use of an engaging computer game specially designed for this purpose. It could also provide you with a new tool to help manage some of the brain fog or cognitive challenges associated with MS. There are usually minimal risks associated with using computer games for cognitive training, but potential mild frustrations with the game, eye strain, or temporary fatigue are possible. The study team will monitor your well-being throughout. Remember, taking part in any clinical trial is always voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it won't affect your usual medical care.

Locations (6)

CH Arras
Verified postcode
Arras, France· Recruiting
CH LENS
Verified postcode
Lens, France· Recruiting
CHRU
Verified postcode
Lille, France· Recruiting
Saint Vincent hospital
Verified postcode
Lille, France· Recruiting
Saint-Philibert hospital
Verified postcode
Lomme, France· Recruiting
Charles Nicolle Hospital
Verified postcode
Rouen, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a 'serious game'?

It's a computer game designed not just for fun, but also to help you learn, train, or improve specific skills, in this case, memory and thinking abilities.

Will this game cure my MS?

No, this study is not looking for a cure for MS. It aims to help manage and improve specific symptoms like memory and thinking difficulties.

How often would I need to play the game?

The study details don't specify the exact frequency, but you would likely be asked to play regularly for a set period, which the researchers will explain.

Do I need to be good with computers?

You'll need to be able to use a computer and have an internet connection. The study team should provide support and guidance on how to use the game.

What kind of memory problems is this study looking at?

It focuses on improving your thinking speed and your ability to learn and remember new information, often referred to as 'episodic memory'.

How to find out more

Amélie Lausiaux, MD, PhD

lansiaux.amelie@ghicl.net 03.20.22.52.69 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.