Using virtual reality to detect early signs of cognitive decline
Official title: Validation of a Virtual Reality Floor Maze Test to Detect Early Signs of Cognitive Impairment
Funded at Medstar Health Research Institute · NIH-10990110 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how a fun virtual reality maze can help spot early signs of memory problems in people who might be at risk for Alzheimer's Disease, so we can find ways to help them sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medstar Health Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hyattsville, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $107,482 |
| NIH project number | 7R21AG072469-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990110 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include cognitively normal adults at low risk and higher risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease, as well as individuals with amnesic mild cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced cognitive impairment or those who are unable to participate in virtual reality assessments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a virtual reality floor maze test to identify early signs of cognitive impairment, particularly in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's Disease. Participants will navigate through virtual mazes while their gait and navigational skills are assessed, providing valuable data on cognitive function. The study aims to validate this innovative approach as a sensitive and specific marker for cognitive decline, allowing for earlier intervention and treatment. Participants will undergo neuropsychological testing followed by the VR maze assessment to gather comprehensive cognitive data.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of cognitive impairment, allowing for timely interventions that may slow the progression of Alzheimer's Disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using virtual reality for cognitive assessments, suggesting that this approach could be effective in detecting early cognitive decline.
Where this research is happening
-
Medstar Health Research Institute
Hyattsville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martelli, Dario — Medstar Health Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Martelli, Dario
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.