Feasibility and user-experience of virtual reality in neuropsychological assessment following stroke. Issue 4 (21st April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Spreij, Lauriane A.; Visser-Meily, Johanna M.A.; Sibbel, Jacqueline; Gosselt, Isabel K.; Nijboer, Tanja C.W.
• Is Part Of: Neuropsychological rehabilitation. Volume 32:Issue 4(2022)
• Page Start: 499
• Page End: 519
• Publication Date: 2022-04-21
• Subjects: Cognitive rehabilitation -- Neuropsychological assessment -- Stroke -- Virtual Reality; Brain damage -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Clinical neuropsychology -- Periodicals; 617.4810443
• DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2020.1831935
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-2011

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Virtual Reality (VR) offers the possibility to assess cognitive functioning in a dynamic environment resembling daily life. In this cross-sectional study, we used two user interfaces, namely non-immersive VR by using a computer monitor (CM) and immersive VR by using a head-mounted display (HMD). We investigated (1) potential differences in feasibility, user-experience, and a potential preference for one user interface over another between stroke patients and healthy controls; (2) potential differences in feasibility, user-experience, and preference between patients referred for inpatient rehabilitation care and patients referred for outpatient rehabilitation care; and (3) potential demographic and clinical characteristics that were related to patients' preference for one user interface over another. Stroke patients ( n = 88) and healthy controls ( n = 66) performed a VR-task with a CM and HMD. Both user interfaces were feasible to use, irrespective of clinical referral (in- or outpatient rehabilitation care). Patients reported an enhanced feeling of engagement, transportation, flow, and presence, but more negative side effects when tested with a HMD, compared to a CM. The majority of stroke patients had no preference for one user interface over the other, yet younger patients tended to prefer a HMD. VR seems highly feasible in stroke patients.