Development and Validation of Virtual Reality Cognitive Training for Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment:...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) affects older adults, impacting cognitive function and daily living.
• Fully immersive virtual reality cognitive training (fi-VRCT) shows potential for cognitive enhancement in MCI.
• The efficacy of fi-VRCT for improving instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and independence in MCI remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a fi-VRCT program specifically targeting IADL in older adults with MCI.
• To enhance both cognitive function and IADL performance through this novel training approach.
• To assess the feasibility, effectiveness, and refinement of fi-VRCT in community settings.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods program evaluation incorporating feasibility, intervention, and extension phases.
• Feasibility phase: 20 MCI participants, single fi-VRCT session, feedback via questionnaires and interviews.
• Intervention phase: Double-blind, cluster-randomized controlled trial (52 MCI participants) comparing fi-VRCT to a control group over 8 weeks (16 sessions).

Main Results:

• Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected throughout the study.
• Cognitive and functional performance will be assessed at multiple intervals.
• Findings will inform program refinement and elucidate training outcomes.

Conclusions:

• fi-VRCT holds promise for enhancing cognitive and functional abilities in older adults with MCI.
• The developed program aims to improve IADL performance and promote independence.
• This research contributes to evidence-based interventions for managing MCI in community settings.