B – 80 Digital Interventions for Cognitive Impairment in Schizophrenia

Abstract Objective This review evaluates emerging digital interventions for remediating cognitive impairment in individuals with schizophrenia. Cognitive deficits, resulting primarily from dysfunction of the mesocortical dopaminergic pathway, often include impairments in working memory, executive functioning, and processing speed. Digital tools such as virtual reality (VR), computerized cognitive remediation therapy (CCRT), and artificial intelligence (AI)-based programs offer scalable and novel approaches that may enhance traditional treatments. Method A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, ScienceDirect, Journal of Medical Internet Research, and Frontiers in Psychiatry for peer-reviewed articles published between 2019-2024. Search terms included “digital intervention,” “schizophrenia,” “virtual reality,” “computerized therapy,” “artificial intelligence,” and “technology-based intervention.” Inclusion criteria encompassed studies on digital cognitive interventions for schizophrenia, addressing feasibility, efficacy, cognitive outcomes, or implementation frameworks. Results Three thematic categories emerged: VR-based cognitive interventions, computerized cognitive remediation therapy, and AI-enhanced digital therapeutics. Short-term outcomes showed improvements in working memory, executive functioning, and attention after 4–8 weeks of intervention. Four studies demonstrated sustained cognitive gains at 3–6 month follow-ups. Limitations included variability in digital literacy, access to equipment, lack of standardization across interventions, and small sample sizes. Conclusion Digital therapies demonstrate promise for improving cognitive outcomes in schizophrenia, aligning with contemporary mental health care’s focus on personalization and scalability. However, further large-scale randomized controlled trials are necessary to evaluate long-term efficacy, standardization, and integration with standard care.