Psychiatry Investig.  2024 Oct;21(10):1045-1053. 10.30773/pi.2024.0103.

The Efficacy of a Home-Based, Augmented Reality Dual-Task Platform for Cognitive-Motor Training in Elderly Patients: A Pilot Observational Study

• Yoon B
• Park J
• Shim Y

• KMID: 2560158
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.30773/pi.2024.0103

Abstract

Objective
This study introduces a novel home-based dual-task platform incorporating augmented reality (AR), COGNIMO, aimed at simultaneously enhancing cognition and physical abilities. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of this intervention in enhancing cognitive and physical abilities in elderly individuals with subjective cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and mild Alzheimer’s dementia.
Methods
A 12-week observational study enrolled 57 participants aged 60–85 years. Primary outcomes included changes in cognitive scores (Korean Mini-Mental State Examination, 2nd edition [K-MMSE-2] and Korean-Montreal Cognitive Assessment [K-MoCA]), while secondary outcomes measured physical parameters and depression scores between baseline and week 12 in the active and the control groups.
Results
Of 57 participants, 49 completed the study. The active group (≥12 sessions) exhibited significant improvement in K-MoCA compared to the control group (<12 sessions) (p=0.004), while K-MMSE-2 score changes showed no significant difference (p=0.579). Positive correlations between training sessions and K-MoCA changes were observed (r=0.31, p=0.038), emphasizing a dose-response relationship. Subgroup analyses revealed a distinction in cognitive changes, particularly in the MCI group.
Conclusion
The COGNIMO platform showed positive effects on cognitive function in MCI patients, suggesting potential benefits for this population. The study highlights the potential of AR-integrated home-based interventions for cognitive enhancement in elderly individuals, underlining the need for further trials in the future.

Keyword

Augmented reality; Home-based; Cognitive training; Mild cognitive impairment; Montreal cognitive assessment; Exercise