VR for Alzheimer's
Virtual Reality for Spatial Cognition Testing for Alzheimer's
Project Brief. The goal of this project was to develop a virtual reality (VR) application designed to test and assess spatial cognition in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. By creating an immersive and interactive environment, the project aimed to provide a more accurate and engaging way to evaluate cognitive functions related to spatial awareness and memory.
Project Overview. The "Virtual Reality for Spatial Cognition Testing" project leverages cutting-edge VR technology to assess spatial cognition in Alzheimer's patients. The application simulates realistic environments and tasks that challenge users' navigation and memory skills, providing valuable data for researchers and healthcare professionals.
With the CBrain Lab at Stanford University School of Medicine
Project Type. Research Assistant, Design Engineer
This is an ongoing project.
Background & Approach
Mild Cognitive Impairment is one factor increasing the risk for later development of Alzheimer's Disease. In a study funded by National Institute of Aging, we are utilizing neuropsychological assessments in conjunction with novel neuroimaging and computational techniques to study the effects of long-term, multi-domain, computerized cognitive training on brain networks in older adults with MCI. We are also examining factors influencing the response to cognitive training in order to optimize the training based on individual's brain and behavior profile.
The C-Brain Lab is developing virtual reality technology to develop innovative tests for assessing spatial cognition.
TESTABLE RESEARCH APPLICATION
Recruitment
The C-Brain Lab is actively recruiting individuals aged 50 and older to participate in a groundbreaking study utilizing virtual reality technology to develop innovative tests for assessing spatial cognition. Recruitment efforts include outreach through community centers, healthcare providers, and online platforms to ensure a diverse and representative sample. If you or someone you know is interested in contributing to cutting-edge research in cognitive science, please contact us for more information.
Testing
Participants are required to attend two 90-minute sessions. The first session involves an MRI scan and preliminary memory tests. In the second session, participants complete four tasks in a virtual reality headset, with memory tests conducted between each task. These tasks are designed to stimulate the memory and spatial cognition regions of the brain, providing insights into Mild Cognitive Impairment.
What I've learned...
Enhancing Analytical Skills
Advancing Programming Expertise
Developing this project required a deep dive into data analysis and interpretation. Analyzing the cognitive performance of users within the VR environment honed my analytical skills, enabling me to identify patterns and insights that were crucial for understanding spatial cognition and its decline in Alzheimer's patients.
Building the VR application provided a hands-on opportunity to enhance my programming skills. Working with VR development platforms and coding complex interactions within the virtual environment taught me how to translate cognitive testing methodologies into interactive digital experiences, expanding my technical capabilities.
