BACKGROUND: Numerous studies suggest that alcohol abuse has negative effects on cognitive and executive functions. Cognitive deficits in individuals with alcohol use disorders can have a negative impact on the success of treatment and reintegration into normal life and work. AIMS: The aim of this clinical comparative study was to evaluate selected cognitive and executive functions in clients treated for alcohol addiction using the comparison of a sample with the general population norm and to evaluate the potential use of such diagnostic information in treatment and aftercare. DESIGN AND MEASUREMENTS: A wide battery of clinical tests was used: the Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), Trail Making Test (TMT), Numeric Square (CC), Verbal Fluency Test (FAS), Stroop Colour Word Test (SCWT), Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF), Benton Visual Retention Test (BVRT), and Case History Questionnaire. PARTICIPANTS: Our sample consisted of 59 clients (38 men and 21 women, mean age 41.7 years) with a diagnosis of moderate or severe alcohol use disorder admitted to treatment facilities in Kromìøíž and Šternberk and to the Olomouc-based aftercare centre. RESULTS: The majority of the cognitive function measures showed significant differences between clients with alcohol use disorders and the general population norm. The clients in treatment scored lower in AVLT, TMT, and FAS, while they were better than the norm in CC and SCWT. No correlation was found between the length of their history of excessive drinking and the test scores. After evaluating each respondent individually, we concluded that cognitive training could be recommended for 34 (58%) of the respondents. CONCLUSIONS: A detailed assessment of cognitive and executive functions using a manageable battery of methods and possible subsequent training in cognitive functions provided to clients in treatment and aftercare can be helpful in enhancing the success of treatment, facilitating social reintegration, and reducing the risk of relapse.

Department of Psychology Faculty of Arts Palacky University Olomouc

Assessment of selected cognitive and executive functions in patients treated for alcohol use disorders and its usability in treatment and aftercare

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