What is cognitive rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis?

Structured interventions aimed at retraining cognitive skills, compensating deficits, and improving daily functioning in people with MS through targeted exercises, strategies, and multidisciplinary support.

How does multiple sclerosis affect cognitive function?

MS commonly impairs memory, processing speed, attention, and executive functions, affecting independence, work performance, and social relationships in approximately 40–70% of patients.

What evidence-based cognitive training methods help MS patients?

Computerized exercises, memory strategy games, and sustained attention tasks have evidence of improving memory, processing speed, and concentration in MS when tailored and practiced consistently.

What role does neuropsychological therapy play in MS rehabilitation?

Neuropsychological therapy retrains affected cognitive skills and teaches compensatory and metacognitive strategies, including mnemonic techniques and CBT, to manage deficits and emotional impact.

How are technologies used in cognitive rehabilitation for MS?

Digital platforms, brain-training apps, tele-rehabilitation, and virtual reality offer customizable, interactive programs that facilitate remote and simulated daily-life cognitive training for MS patients.

How can daily life interventions improve autonomy in MS?

Applying planners, reminders, structured routines, and task breakdowns reduces cognitive load, supports time management, and enhances independence and participation in daily activities.

Cognitive rehabilitation strategies for multiple sclerosis

On the occasion of Brain Awareness Week 2025, this article explores evidence-based therapeutic strategies to improve the quality of life of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Introduction

The multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that affects the central nervous system, causing a wide variety of symptoms, including cognitive disorders. These deficits can significantly affect patients’ quality of life, hindering their autonomy and impacting their personal and professional relationships.

In this context, cognitive rehabilitation plays a key role in mitigating the effects of the disease on cognitive and emotional functions.

How multiple sclerosis (MS) affects cognitive function

Cognitive disorders are common in patients with multiple sclerosis, with an estimated prevalence of 40-70%. The most affected functions include:

Memory: Difficulties storing and retrieving information.
Processing speed: Decreased speed and efficiency in processing and responding to information.
Attention and concentration: Difficulties maintaining sustained attention.
Executive functions: Impairments in planning, organization and decision-making.

These deficits can have a significant impact on the patient’s independence and interpersonal relationships, causing frustration and decreased self-esteem.

Therapeutic strategies for cognitive rehabilitation of multiple sclerosis (MS)

1. Cognitive training for multiple sclerosis

Structured cognitive training has been shown to be effective in improving various cognitive functions. Through exercises designed to stimulate memory, attention and processing speed, patients can slow decline and recover lost abilities.

Computerized exercises: Personalized digital programs for cognitive stimulation.
Strategy and memory games: Activities that challenge working memory and decision-making.
Sustained and selective attention tasks: Designed to improve the ability to concentrate.

2. Neuropsychological therapy for multiple sclerosis

Neuropsychological intervention aims to improve cognitive functioning through techniques adapted to each patient. This therapy focuses on retraining affected skills and compensating for deficits using alternative strategies.

Use of mnemonic techniques to reinforce memory.
Metacognitive strategies to improve organization and planning.
Cognitive behavioral therapy to manage the anxiety and frustration associated with cognitive deficits.

3. Use of technologies in cognitive rehabilitation for multiple sclerosis

Digital tools have revolutionized cognitive rehabilitation, offering interactive and customizable solutions. Platforms such as NeuronUP allow professionals to design intervention programs specific to each patient.

Virtual reality for interactive simulations of daily life.
Brain training apps to reinforce cognitive skills.
Tele-rehabilitation platforms to provide remote therapies.

4. Intervention in daily life for multiple sclerosis

Applying compensatory strategies in the patient’s everyday life is essential to improve their autonomy and quality of life.

Use of planners and reminders to improve time management.
Establishing structured routines to minimize cognitive load.
Task breakdown techniques to facilitate the execution of complex activities.

Importance of cognitive rehabilitation in personal relationships

Multiple sclerosis not only affects cognitive function, but also interpersonal relationships. Changes in memory, attention and executive functions can lead to misunderstandings, communication difficulties and social isolation. Neuropsychological rehabilitation can help patients to:

Improve communication with family and friends.
Reduce the emotional impact of cognitive deficits.
Reinforce strategies for emotional regulation and conflict resolution.

Conclusion

Cognitive rehabilitation is a key tool in the comprehensive treatment of multiple sclerosis. Through evidence-based therapeutic strategies, professionals can contribute significantly to improving patients’ quality of life, helping them maintain their autonomy and strengthen their personal relationships.