A Simple and Effective Way to Study Executive Functions by Using 360° Videos

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Executive dysfunctions significantly impact daily life and independence, posing a public health challenge.
• Traditional neuropsychological tests have ecological limitations for real-world assessment.
• Virtual reality (VR) and 360° environments are emerging as promising tools for assessing executive functions (EFs) in real-life scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the development and implementation of the Executive-functions Innovative Tool 360° (EXIT 360°).
• To provide a multidimensional, multicomponent, and ecologically valid tool for evaluating executive dysfunctions.
• To enhance the assessment experience for clinicians and patients through an innovative and accessible instrument.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a mobile-powered VR headset combined with eye-tracking (ET) and electroencephalography (EEG).
• Implementing a 360°-based instrument for real-life task simulation in daily environments.
• Integrating a multimodal approach including verbal responses, reaction times, and physiological data (eye movements, brain activation).

Main Results:

• EXIT 360° provides an original task for assessing EFs through engaging 'games for health'.
• Clinicians can obtain rapid, ecologically valid information on various EFs (e.g., planning, problem-solving).
• The multimodal approach allows for a comprehensive assessment by integrating behavioral and physiological data.

Conclusions:

• EXIT 360° offers a complete and integrated assessment of executive functioning.
• The tool provides simultaneous, real-time information on executive dysfunction and its real-life impact.
• This approach enables clinicians to tailor rehabilitation strategies effectively to individual patient needs.