DUAL-Rehab: Dual-task meets 360 Technology in an Innovative Instrument

The global population is aging, leading to an increase in cognitive problems such as Alzheimer's Disease. To address this issue, innovative interventions are required that target the preclinical stages of pathologies, such as Mild Cognitive Impairment and Subjective Memory Complaints. One promising non-pharmacological intervention, in neurological patients, is dual-task training, which involves performing two exercises concurrently (i.e., physical and cognitive activity). However, most of this training has been carried out in sterile laboratories, limiting the transfer of the ability to real life. To address this, innovative technology such as 360 degrees videos is being utilized to create lifelike experiences that offer promising outcomes. The current study aims to present a prototype of a novel and ecological dual-task training program using 360 degrees technology to enhance the cognitive functioning of individuals with a preclinical stage of dementia. The 360 degrees dual-task training will consist of different exercises taking place in daily environments, such as houses, hospitals, offices, etc., and each exercise will reproduce different ordinary activities, requiring participants to perform motor tasks while interacting with the environment. The program will cover 10 bi-weekly sessions and will be available in two different modalities: immersive and nonimmersive. The immersive modality requires the use of a head-mounted display, to train cognitive functions and a cycle ergometer for motor activity. The nonimmersive one consists of the use of a table and a portable cycle ergometer. This technology-based intervention will provide older individuals with an innovative and personalized instrument to improve their quality of life by being cognitively engaged.