Innovating Stroke Recovery: A Systematic Review of Virtual Reality in Cognitive Rehabilitation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Cognitive impairment is a major challenge for stroke survivors, impacting daily living.
• Virtual reality (VR) is an emerging therapeutic tool for stroke rehabilitation, addressing both motor and cognitive deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the effects of virtual reality (VR) interventions on cognitive function in stroke patients.
• To evaluate VR's efficacy in addressing post-stroke cognitive impairment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between January 2019 and August 2025.
• Searched multiple databases using keywords: "virtual reality", "cognitive function", "stroke".
• Assessed methodological quality using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2) and followed PRISMA guidelines.

Main Results:

• Nine RCTs involving 601 stroke patients were included.
• VR interventions showed statistically significant improvements in global cognitive function in 78% of studies compared to conventional therapy.
• Limited improvements were noted in secondary outcomes like mental health and quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality-based cognitive rehabilitation demonstrates meaningful improvements in global cognitive function for stroke survivors.
• VR can be effectively integrated as a complementary tool in multidisciplinary stroke rehabilitation programs.
• Further research may explore VR's impact on specific cognitive domains and long-term outcomes.