Enhancing cognitive flexibility and working memory in individuals with mild cognitive impairment: Exploring the impact of virtual reality on daily life activities

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) serving as a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia. This study aimed to explore the impact of virtual reality (VR) on enhancing cognitive flexibility, working memory, and daily life activities. Forty participants diagnosed with MCI were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (N = 20) or a control group (N = 20). Evaluations were at baseline, post-training, and three months post-training using various cognitive assessment tools. Results showed that the VR-based cognitive rehabilitation significantly improved instrumental activities of daily living performance, visual and verbal working memory, and reduced anxiety and depression symptoms. While cognitive flexibility did not exhibit significant improvement, these findings highlight VR interventions as a potential avenue for improving cognitive and functional aspects, and alleviating psychological symptoms in individuals with MCI. Further research with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up periods is recommended to establish the long-term effectiveness of such interventions.