Using virtual reality to improve verbal episodic memory in schizophrenia: A proof-of-concept trial.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Computer Science

Background:

• Schizophrenia is characterized by significant verbal episodic memory deficits.
• Cognitive remediation aims to improve cognitive functions in schizophrenia.
• Virtual reality (VR) offers a novel platform for enhancing cognitive remediation's ecological validity and skill transfer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a VR-based cognitive remediation module.
• The module was inspired by Strategy for Semantic Association Memory (SESAME) principles.
• The goal was to improve verbal episodic memory strategies in schizophrenia patients.

Main Methods:

• Thirty individuals with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder were randomized into VR-based SESAME training or an active control group.
• The intervention group learned semantic encoding strategies (rehearsal, clustering) in a VR restaurant setting.
• The control group completed visuospatial puzzles in VR; feasibility, acceptability, and memory efficacy were assessed.

Main Results:

• The VR intervention demonstrated feasibility (low attrition) and acceptability (minimal cybersickness, high enjoyment).
• A trend towards increased use of semantic clusters was observed in the intervention group (medium effect size), unlike the control group.
• No significant changes in word recall were found in either group post-intervention.

Conclusions:

• The VR intervention is feasible and acceptable for schizophrenia patients.
• It shows potential for improving semantic encoding strategies, supporting ecological approaches in cognitive remediation.
• VR-based cognitive remediation may be a valuable tool for addressing cognitive impairments in schizophrenia.