Virtual Reality Gaming and Its Impact and Effectiveness in Improving Eye-Hand Coordination and Attention...

Background: The ageing process is associated with a decline in cognitive functions, including eye-hand coordination, attention concentration, and psychomotor reaction time. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of virtual reality-based therapy in enhancing cognitive functions in seniors. Methods: This study was conducted on 38 cases (29 women and 9 men) with a mean age of 87.2 years, who were divided into two groups: a VR group (with a 4-week, three-time-week training program using the game "Beat Saber") and a control group (with a standard 4-week exercise program). Assessments of eye-hand coordination and attentional concentration were conducted at the beginning (T₀) and the end (T₁) of the training. Results: Analysis of eye-hand coordination and attentional concentration showed significant improvement in both groups (T₀ vs. T₁: p = 0.0002 for the intervention group and p = 0.007 for the control group). However, the effect in the VR group was almost three times greater than in the control group (1.689 vs. 0.615 in D effect). Moreover, in the VR group, an analysis of "good cuts" indicated improvements in both parameters after 4 weeks of VR training. The percentage of correctly received stimuli increased significantly across sessions (p < 0.00001). Furthermore, 84.3% of participants experienced a twofold improvement in performance over the 12 VR sessions (42% vs. 80% accuracy in successful hits). The distribution of results also suggests a positive subjective impact of VR therapy in maintaining mental activity. Conclusions: The findings indicate that VR-related training can support elderly individuals in recovering cognitive function, potentially enhancing their independence and life quality.