Memory Training

Cogmed Working Memory Training

What is working memory?

Working memory is the ability to keep information in mind for short periods of time while you focus on a task and remember what to do next. People with attention deficits frequently have weaknesses in working memory.  In fact, an increasing number of researchers now believe that what we call “Attention Deficit Disorder” may actually be a working memory disorder.  If a person can’t remember what to do, he/she won’t do it.  Lack of focus may represent a memory deficit.   This working memory deficits causes some of the following problems in school and everyday life:

• Remembering instructions and following directions
• Completing tasks
• Distractibility
• Remembering what you’ve just read
• Remembering all the ideas you want to write about in a paper
• Remembering what you went into the next room to get
• Other examples of working memory in daily life

How important is working memory in school?

Many researchers believe that working memory may be more predictive of academic success than IQ. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended working memory training as having “good support” in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder.

How important is working memory to an adult’s daily functioning?

It is extremely important at home and work.   If our working memory is faulty, we forget things we’re supposed to remember as soon as we begin thinking about or doing something else.

Working memory can be strengthened and attention improved

Just like muscles can be strengthened with exercise, research at multiple sites around the world has shown that attention can be improved by rigorous training that strengthens working memory.  Many scientists believe that if people continue to use their strengthened working memory, it will remain stronger indefinitely – just like if you strengthen a muscle and continue to use the muscle to its maximum capacity, it will remain strong.

How does Cogmed Working Memory Training do this?

Researchers in Sweden developed the Cogmed Working Memory Training program consisting of a 5-week computer-based training program.  This training is available only through qualified practices which have been screened and trained by Cogmed personnel.  Dr. Cooley is one of only about 350 practices in North America qualified to provide this training.  He is the “coach” who supervises and monitors each user’s training.

Test yourself with a couple of working memory exercises

Learn more about the specifics of the training procedure

View a demonstration of the training programs for children & adults

Frequently Asked Questions: (Most of everything you may want to know about the training.)

How successful is this training?

Research shows that 80% of individuals completing the training show working memory improvements continuing six months after training.  Other clinical reports suggest that improvements continue well beyond one year.  Additional improvements have been found in attention, problem solving, planning, and improved academic skills.

Who can benefit from training?

Children and adults with working memory or attention problems can benefit.  This includes individuals with Attention Deficit Disorder, learning disabilities,  victims of stroke or traumatic brain injury, cancer and older individuals experiencing age-appropriate memory decline.  Research has shown that 40% of cancer patients have memory deficits.

Why makes Cogmed Working Memory Training better than all the other memory programs out there?

First,  other memory training programs are done on your own.  This requires self-discipline which is difficult for people many people with and without ADD. How often have you started a diet or told yourself you’re going to the gym only to not complete your goal?  Cogmed Working Memory Training is supervised by Dr. Cooley, the “coach” who monitors your training and calls and/or emails you at least once a week with feedback and suggestions.  This accountability motivates people to stick with the program.  It’s the difference between working out at a gym alone or with a personal trainer. That’s why 90% of children and adults who begin training complete the entire program.

Secondly, no other memory training program begins to compare with the research supporting Cogmed.  Other programs spend a lot of money on marketing and claims that aren’t backed by scientific research.  As of February 2012, Cogmed’s effectiveness is supported by 22 studies.  There are currently 55 additional studies in progress around the world.

Screening for training

Although  individuals with working memory or attentional deficits will gain the most from working memory training, individuals without these deficits can also benefit.  If you are not a patient of mine that I’ve recommended for Cogmed Training, a screening consultation is required.

What if I live far away from your office?

My Cogmed practice is one of only several in Florida that is eligible to train clients “from a distance.”  Although an initial office consultation is preferable, if you live far away, the screening consultation can be conducted by Skype or over the phone without

What is the cost of Cogmed Working Memory training?

Please call Dr. Cooley’s office at 561-694-0001 to learn the cost of training.  Training is not considered a medical or therapeutic intervention and is not covered by insurance.  Some individuals are using monies from their Health Reimbursement Accounts to fund the training.

For more information…………

Sign up for a 30 minute live Cogmed Webinar on your computer to hear about and see the program.  You’ll be able ask questions over the phone.  Webinars are scheduled at different times during the week.