The Potential of Virtual Reality-Based Multisensory Interventions in Enhancing Cognitive Function in Mild Cognitive...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) represent significant challenges in cognitive health.
• Multisensory cognitive training is an emerging area of therapeutic intervention.
• Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive environments for targeted cognitive rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the efficacy of VR-based multisensory cognitive training.
• To assess the impact on cognitive function, executive function, and wayfinding in individuals with MCI and AD.
• To synthesize current evidence on VR interventions for cognitive decline.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Databases searched included PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar up to February 2025.
• Inclusion criteria focused on participants with MCI or early AD undergoing VR-based cognitive training with reported cognitive outcomes.

Main Results:

• Nine studies involving MCI participants were included; no studies focused on AD.
• Seven of nine studies reported significant improvements in global cognitive function (e.g., MoCA, MMSE) for MCI.
• VR interventions showed varied effects on executive function and potential benefits for depression and quality of life in MCI.

Conclusions:

• VR-based cognitive training demonstrates potential for enhancing cognitive function in individuals with MCI.
• VR interventions appear well-tolerated with no significant adverse events reported.
• Further research is needed to establish VR's efficacy specifically for Alzheimer's disease.