Alzheimer in VR

You thought Morris Wateremaze Test was for rats ? Think again !!

We are using the PC based 3D VR visuospatial (VS) test along with a Virtual Morris Water Maze application as potential cognitive assessment tools for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type (DAT). The VR spatial rotation test delivers 3D stimuli that can be viewed on a PC monitor using a monoscopic view or stereoscopic shutter glasses to provide a 3D view. The test can be presented in passive format or the virtual objects can be manipulated using a tracking / input device. The potential advantage of these tests compared to 2D paper and pencil tests is the ability for the objects to be viewed and manipulated in 3D using a hand held input device that allows for more precise measurement of performance. A VR version of the Morris Water Maze, designed by researchers at the Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center, can be viewed on a PC screen. The user can navigate through a virtual water pool to find a hidden platform using a joystick. Precise measurements of time and distance traveled can be recorded to assess wayfinding ability. We have received funding from the Alzheimer's Association (ETAC) and the American Association of University Women. The aim of the current research is to determine if the VR 3D VS tests and VR Morris Water task are more sensitive to cognitive indicators of the early stages of DAT compared to traditional 2D pen and paper tests and to determine the predictive validity of these tests for two real world wayfinding tasks. Research participants will include healthy aged adults and adults with mild DAT.