Therapeutic Application of Virtual Reality in the Rehabilitation of Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This review aimed to quantify the effect of therapeutic application of virtual reality (VR) on cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). We searched for randomized controlled trials involving VR in the interventions provided to individuals with MCI. After searching four international electronic databases, we analyzed six studies involving 279 individuals with MCI. RevMan 5.4 was used for quality assessment and quantitative analysis. Therapeutic application of VR in individuals with MCI resulted in a significant improvement in cognitive function (mean difference = −1.46; 95% confidence interval: −2.53 to −0.39; heterogeneity: χ2 = 970.56, df = 18, I2 = 98%; and overall effect: Z = 2.67, p = 0.008). However, there was no significant improvement in the subcategories such as global cognition, working memory, executive function, memory function, and attention. In conclusion, feedback stimulation through VR has a potential value in improving cognitive function in individuals with MCI. However, on the basis of the results of the subcategories, a personalized VR program is required for the individual subcategories of cognitive function.

Using virtual reality-based physical activity to change the mental health and cognitive function of karate athletes

“…This was in line with other study from Zhu et al [3], that physical activity with virtual reality technology interventions was a powerful method to improve cognitive function. Basically, physical activity such as brain jogging, neurotracker and aerobic circuit were immersive stimuli that required athletes to see, hear and remember all their movement patterns, which could improve cognitive function [63], related to focus attention [64]. Other research also confirmed that virtual reality physical activity had a positive effect on cognitive function in adults [39].…”

Combining reinforcement learning and virtual reality in mild neurocognitive impairment: a new usability assessment on patients and caregivers

“…Conversely, once caregivers and quality of life were included in NCI and VR, 14 and 10 records were found, respectively. On the contrary, by considering mild cognitive impairments (MCIs) and VR, a larger literature was found (Moreno et al, 2019 ; Chen et al, 2021 ; Colombini et al, 2021 ; Jonson et al, 2021 ; Bacanoiu and Danoiu, 2022 ; Kim et al, 2022 ; Li et al, 2022 ). Specifically, Bacanoiu and Danoiu ( 2022 ) carefully assessed the suitable intervention patterns, surveys delivered through variable online platforms, and tools to observe the stagnation of early aging and patients with dementia.…”

“…The authors critically discussed the evidence regarding the potential use of VR in rehabilitation, which is still uninvestigated. Kim et al ( 2022 ) quantified the effect of VR as a therapeutic intervention for cognitive functions in individuals with MCI. Six studies involving 279 participants were examined.…”