Evidence-Based Cognitive Rehabilitation for Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: An Updated Systematic Review 2016 to 2024.
Yael Goverover, Silvana L Costa, Victor W Mark et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review synthesized research published from 2016 to 2024 on cognitive rehabilitation interventions for people with multiple sclerosis. Of 67 studies with original data, the review classified 7 as class I, 30 as class II, 18 as class III, and 12 as class IV evidence. Five interventions were supported at the practice-standard level, five as practice guidelines, and several studies supported 17 practice options. The authors report continued growth in the field but emphasize the need for more rigorous research, longer-term follow-up, and evidence that interventions improve everyday functioning.
Key findings
- The review included 67 studies with original data: 7 class I, 30 class II, 18 class III, and 12 class IV.
- Five interventions received support for a practice standard, and five received support as practice guidelines.
- Several studies provided support for 17 practice options.
Why it matters
Cognitive rehabilitation is an active area of research in multiple sclerosis, and the review identifies interventions with varying levels of evidentiary support. For clinical interpretation, the evidence hierarchy matters: much of the literature is not class I, and the authors note that links between treatment outcomes and meaningful everyday activities remain insufficiently established.
What to keep in mind
The evidence base includes relatively few class I studies. The review identifies a need for longitudinal research to assess durability and for stronger links between treatment outcomes and real-world functioning.