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Alzheimer's

We are using the PC based 3D VR visuospatial (VS) test along with a Virtual Morris Water Maze application as potential cognitive assessment tools for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type (DAT).

Goals
The goals of the Alzheimer's project are as follows:

• Compare the use of two computer based environments for assessment of mental rotation and wayfinding/navigation compared to traditional paper and pencil tests and real world wayfinding tests.
• Develop the two computer based environments as part of an assessment protocol for mild dementia of the Alzheimer's type.
• Investigate the use of the two VR environments as possible treatment tools.

Differences Between This Project and Others in the Field
This project differs from others in the following ways:

• This project is comparing the use of computer based environments with existing neuropsychological tools.

Team Members
Belinda Lange, PhD (Co-Project Investigator)
Albert "Skip" Rizzo, PhD (Co-Project Investigator)
Thomas D. Parsons, PhD (Co-Project Investigator)

External Collaborators
This project is funded by a grant from the Alzheimer's Association Everyday Technologies for Alzheimer's Care.
Belinda Lange received the American Association of University Women Educational Foundation International PostDoctoral Fellowship.

Contact Name
Belinda Lange, PhD (lange@ict.usc.edu)