Basic Issues in the Application of Virtual Reality for the Assessment and Rehabilitation of Cognitive Impairments and Functional Disabilities

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Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) is an emerging computer-driven simulation technology that appears to be well matched to the assessment and rehabilitation needs of persons with cognitive impairments and functional disabilities. Persons with these difficulties due to acquired brain injuries, neurological disorders, and developmental disabilities could benefit from the development of VR testing and training environments. VR technology is capable of delivering cognitive and functional scenarios that allow for complex, dynamic stimulus presentations and the capacity to record and measure all responses precisely within the virtual environment. In this regard, VR's capacity to improve on the experimental control available in these applications is a neuropsychologist's dream! However, several basic issues need to be considered for the rational and measured development of VR applications for the study, assessment, and rehabilitation of cognitive impairments and functional disabilities. This article begins with brief introductions to the concepts of VR, cognitive and functional abilities, neuropsychological assessment, and cognitive rehabilitation with rationales provided for the applicability of VR in these areas. Basic pragmatic and theoretical issues for these applications are then presented, followed by a description of our ongoing work developing a VR mental rotation and spatial skills cognitive assessment and training system.