Abstract: Objective To investigate the effect of rehabilitation on memory deficits after acquired brain injury, to compare different training models of memory rehabilitation and to analyze the possible factors affecting memory rehabilitation. Methods 144 patients with acquired brain injury following memory deficits were randomly assigned to computer-assisted training group, face-to-face training group and control group. Both training groups were given memory-based cognitive training program once a day which sustained 30 minutes for 6 or 12 weeks. The instantaneous memory, short-term memory and long-term memory were evaluated and compared before and after training. The effect of gender, age, education, course, site of injury and coma time on training efficacy were analyszed as well. Results 6 weeks and 12 weeks at training, both computer-assisted and face-to-face training groups showed a significant improvement in memory abilities when compared to controls (P<0.01), with the former making more progress (P<0.01). Negative correlation was found between age and memory performance. Conclusion Effectiveness of memory rehabilitation is proven. 12 weeks training can significantly improve memory. Cognitive training using professional equipment is significantly more effective than the face-to-face training and should be recommended.

Key words: memory deficits, computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation, acquired brain injury