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Assessing Cognition in Kidney Failure Using Virtual Reality Technology: A Clinical Research Protocol
Malik I El-Feghi1,2, George Worthen1,2, David Clark1,2
1Division of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
Canadian Journal of Kidney Health and Disease
|September 18, 2025
Summary
Virtual reality (VR) offers a promising new method for cognitive screening in dialysis patients. This study evaluates VR-based cognitive testing against traditional methods, aiming to improve early detection of cognitive impairment.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology and Neurology
- Medical Technology and Cognitive Assessment
Background:
- Cognitive impairment is prevalent in dialysis patients, impacting morbidity and mortality.
- Traditional cognitive screening, like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), faces challenges in the dialysis setting.
- Virtual reality (VR) presents a novel approach for cognitive function assessment in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the test-retest reliability, diagnostic performance, and agreement of a VR-generated MoCA compared to a face-to-face MoCA in hemodialysis patients.
- To explore changes in cognitive function over time, associations with mortality/hospitalization, and usability of VR cognitive testing.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study involving hemodialysis patients.
- Cognitive function assessed using React Neuro VR Headset and paper-based MoCA at baseline and week 2, with subsequent VR assessments up to 12 months.
- Agreement analyzed using Cohen's kappa; reliability assessed by comparing baseline and 2-week scores; outcome associations examined via regression methods.
Main Results:
- 84 patients recruited, with 75 completing at least their baseline assessment to date.
- Preliminary data suggests feasibility of VR cognitive testing in the dialysis environment.
Conclusions:
- VR-generated MoCA shows potential as a reliable alternative for cognitive assessment in dialysis patients.
- This technology may facilitate early identification of cognitive impairment and inform future VR-based interventions.
- Findings could improve cognitive health outcomes for patients undergoing dialysis.
Keywords:
cognitive functionhemodialysiskidney failuremontreal cognitive assessment (MoCA)virtual realityMore Related Videos
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