Immersive Virtual Reality as Computer-Assisted Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Training in Patients with Parkinson's...

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of immersive virtual reality used as a short-term multifaceted activity with a focus on motor and cognitive function in patients with Parkinson's Disease. The sub-objective focused on quality of life in the study group of patients. Materials and Methods: Nineteen patients (64.2 ± 12.8 years) were included in this study. Inclusion criteria for this study: adult patients in Hoehn and Yahr's stage 1-3, cooperative, with stable health status, independent and mobile. IVR therapy was performed twice a week for 20 min for one month. Input and output measurements were taken within 14 days of starting or ending therapy. The 10 Meter Walk test was used to examine and assess both comfortable and fast walking, and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) + s dual task was applied to quickly assess the highest possible level of functional mobility. The Berg Balance Scale test (BBS) was used to assess balance with a 14-item balance scale containing specific movement tasks. The standardized Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) was used to assess quality of life. Data were processed in the PAST program using a nonparametric paired Wilcoxon test. The significance level was set at α = 0.05. The value of the r score was used to evaluate the effect size. Results: A significant reduction in the time in the fast walk 10MWT (p = 0.006; r = 0.63) and TUG (p < 0.001; r = 0.80) parameter were found after therapy. Significant improvement in the BBS score was found after applied therapy (p = 0.016; r = 0.55). In the PDQ-39 questionnaire, significant improvements were found in the study group after therapy in the domains of mobility (p = 0.027; r = 0.51) and emotional well-being (p = 0.011; r = 0.58). Conclusions: The results of this study indicate a positive effect of virtual reality therapy on balance and gait, which is also good in terms of reducing the risk of falls in the study group. Therapy also promoted quality of life in the study group.