Virtual Reality Cognitive Training for Brain Tumor
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a virtual reality (VR) game designed to help brain cancer survivors improve cognitive skills and overall well-being after treatment. Participants will either use the VR game or complete word puzzles to determine which method is more effective. The trial targets individuals who have survived low-grade glioma, experience mild cognitive issues, and completed cancer treatment over a month ago. Participants should commit to daily activities for four weeks and need a reliable phone for follow-ups. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance post-treatment recovery for brain cancer survivors.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this virtual reality cognitive training is safe for brain tumor survivors?
Studies have shown that using virtual reality (VR) for brain training is generally safe and easy to handle. Research indicates that VR can enhance mental skills like memory and attention without causing serious side effects. For example, a study on VR for patients with brain tumors found it reduced anxiety and distress, with no major negative effects reported. Another study on VR for breast cancer patients showed it effectively improved mental skills and was safe to use. Overall, VR brain training appears to be a safe method to boost mental abilities and well-being.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Virtual Reality Cognitive Training for brain tumors because it offers a new way to boost cognitive functions using an immersive and interactive technology. Unlike traditional cognitive therapies that may involve simple word puzzles or exercises on paper, this approach uses a virtual reality (VR) headset to create engaging environments that can adapt and increase in complexity, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation. This method provides a dynamic and personalized experience that could lead to quicker and more meaningful improvements in cognitive skills for individuals with brain tumors.
What evidence suggests that virtual reality cognitive training is effective for brain tumor survivors?
Research has shown that virtual reality (VR) can assist brain tumor patients with thinking and memory issues, particularly by enhancing focus and short-term memory. In this trial, participants in the experimental arm will use Virtual Reality Cognitive Training (VR-CRT) to potentially enhance brain function. Although data specifically for brain tumor survivors remains limited, early results are promising. VR training may help maintain brain function and improve mental health and quality of life. These findings suggest VR could be a valuable tool for brain tumor survivors facing cognitive challenges after treatment.16789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for low-grade glioma survivors, aged 18 or older, who have finished cancer treatment at least 30 days ago but no more than 24 months prior. Participants must have mild cognitive impairment, speak English, and be able to consent on their own. They should commit to daily VR gaming or puzzles for four weeks and be reachable by phone.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo a 4-week intervention using either Virtual Reality-Cognitive Rehab Training (VR-CRT) or paper-based Word-search puzzles (WSP) to assess feasibility, acceptability, and cognitive function effects.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the intervention, with cognitive function measured at baseline and post-intervention.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Reality Cognitive Training
Trial Overview
The study tests a virtual reality cognitive training intervention aimed at reducing cognitive deficits in brain cancer survivors post-treatment. It measures the impact on mental health and quality of life through regular VR games or word search puzzles played over a month.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Experimental (VR) Participants ONLY: Participants randomized to using Virtual Reality-Cognitive Rehab Training (VR-CRT) will have the game already installed/uploaded in the VR headset and ready for use, with their pre-determined participant number for user login and password assigned.
Control (WSP) Participants ONLY: Participants randomized to the control group will have their WSP packet with pre-selected word puzzles that provide a cognitive stimulus but without an increase in complexity. The instructions provided will state how participants should complete the WSP day-by-day. The dated completed WSPs, along with weekly check-ins by the study CRC will constitute the record for the participant's progress over four weeks. CRCs will notify the PI via email if during the call the participant indicates they have missed any of the WSPs during a given week.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Cincinnati
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Effect of Virtual Reality on Cognitive Dysfunction in Patients ...
It seems that VR is helpful for brain tumor patients who have cognitive impairment, especially in improving attention and short-term memory.
Measuring the Feasibility and Effect of a Virtual Reality ...
This study is focused on assessing the feasibility, acceptability and effect of a virtual reality training intervention for improving the ...
The use of immersive virtual reality for cancer-related ...
The use of immersive VR was shown to have potential effects on improving cognitive function for patients with cancer.
Effect of Virtual Reality on Cognitive Dysfunction in Patients ...
To our knowledge, however, no previous study has shown the effectiveness of VR training in brain tumor patients who have cognitive impairment.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Visuospatial Memory ...
The authors suggest that VR equipment can be used to maintain cognitive function in head and neck cancer patients.
Feasibility of a virtual reality intervention targeting distress and ...
A virtual reality intervention targeting distress and anxiety symptoms in patients with primary brain tumors: Interim analysis of a phase 2 clinical trial
Virtual reality-based cognitive rehabilitation programme to ...
This programme is designed to train cognitive functions in patients with breast cancer who report cognitive difficulties following cancer and its treatments, ...
Efficacy of Virtual Reality–Based Interventions on Cognitive ...
This meta-analysis revealed that VR-based interventions can improve cognitive functions among individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders.
Preliminary study on the feasibility of virtual reality-based ...
This study aimed to investigate the safety, feasibility, and clinical efficacy of VR-based cognitive training for patients with mild to moderate ...
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