The effect of aging on brain temporal perception using Virtual Reality Neurocognitive (VRN) experiments

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Human Aging Research

Background:

• Accurate temporal perception is crucial for various cognitive functions.
• Age-related cognitive changes can impact temporal processing.
• Understanding these changes is vital for assessing cognitive health in aging populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate age-related differences in brain temporal perception.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel Virtual Reality Neurocognitive (VRN) test for assessing temporal perception.
• To explore the relationship between age and the accuracy of time perception.

Main Methods:

• A novel Virtual Reality Neurocognitive (VRN) test was developed.
• The VRN test involved participants catching a virtual bouncing ball with a paddle.
• Participants included 44 cognitively healthy volunteers and 3 cognitively healthy individuals with depression, aged 19-82 years.

Main Results:

• A significant decline in the accuracy of temporal perception was observed with increasing age.
• The VRN test effectively differentiated performance across age groups.
• Age was found to be a key factor influencing temporal perception accuracy.

Conclusions:

• Brain temporal perception accuracy deteriorates progressively with age.
• The VRN test offers a promising tool for assessing age-related changes in temporal processing.
• Findings highlight the impact of aging on cognitive functions related to time perception.