Virtual reality-based monitoring test for MCI: A multicenter feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Biomarkers

Background:

• Early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is crucial for timely intervention.
• Traditional cognitive assessments may lack ecological validity for older adults.
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels are lower in individuals with cognitive decline, suggesting its potential as a biomarker.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and usability of a virtual reality (VR)-based cognitive assessment program for screening MCI.
• To determine the potential of salivary dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as a biomarker for MCI.

Main Methods:

• A VR cognitive assessment program and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) were administered to 12 MCI patients and 108 healthy older adults.
• The VR program simulated daily life scenarios to assess memory, attention, visuospatial, and executive functions.
• Statistical analyses included ANCOVA, partial correlation, and ROC curve analysis.

Main Results:

• The VR cognitive assessment showed significantly better performance in distinguishing MCI from healthy controls compared to MOCA (AUC = 0.765 vs. 0.598).
• VR total scores were significantly lower in the MCI group (p = 0.004).
• Salivary DHEA levels correlated with VR total and attention scores (p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

• The VR cognitive test is an effective and safe tool for MCI screening in older adults.
• Salivary DHEA shows potential as a feasible biomarker for MCI detection.