Open AccessMental fatigue and impaired cognitive function after an acquired brain injury
Author(s) -
Jonasson Axel,
Levin Christopher,
Renfors Marielle,
Strandberg Sara,
Johansson Birgitta
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
brain and behavior
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.915
H-Index - 41
ISSN - 2162-3279
DOI - 10.1002/brb3.1056
Subject(s) - cognition , mental fatigue , traumatic brain injury , working memory , psychology , stroke (engine) , physical medicine and rehabilitation , medicine , psychiatry , audiology , clinical psychology , mechanical engineering , engineering
Objective Mental fatigue is a common subjective symptom following an acquired brain injury. In many cases, this is long‐lasting with a considerable negative impact on work, studies, social activities, and quality of life. No objective test for mental fatigue exists today. The aim of this study was to investigate whether mental fatigue can be objectively measured. Materials and Methods This study included 32 controls with no mental fatigue and 42 well‐rehabilitated participants who suffered from long‐term mental fatigue following stroke, traumatic brain injury, encephalitis or meningitis, and late effects after brain tumor. Attention, processing speed and working memory were assessed using a test and retest design following a demanding reading exercise. Results Significant interactions were found for tests measuring processing speed, working memory, and attention. The control group improved at the second test, while those who suffered from mental fatigue did not. Conclusions This study indicates impaired cognitive performance over time after cognitive activity for individuals suffering from mental fatigue after an acquired brain injury.