VR Hand Exercises: Impact on Cognition and Dexterity in MCI

Plain-language summary

This study aims to investigate the effects of virtual reality (VR)-based hand exercises on cognitive functions and hand skills in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Cognitive functions will be assessed by measuring brain activity using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during the Stroop test. Additionally, hand functions will be evaluated using the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test, grip strength measurement (via a Jamar dynamometer), and the Duruöz Hand Index. Hand dominance will be determined using the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory, and sociodemographic data will be collected through a form prepared by the researcher. Based on a G\*Power analysis, a total of 30 participants-15 in each group-will be included in the study, with an effect size of 1.00094 and a power of 80%. Evaluations will be conducted twice, before and after the intervention. To avoid participant fatigue, assessments will be divided over two days. The intervention group will receive VR-based hand exercises twice a week for six weeks. These exercises will include activities such as MasterChef (cutting, mixing, and grasping in a virtual kitchen), PinchPeg (placing pegs using pinch grip), HoldAndPut (transporting cups or cans), and bPuzzle (color matching and puzzle completion). The control group will perform traditional exercises twice a week for six weeks, including 30-50 piece puzzle completion, the Nine-Hole Peg Test, shape cutting, and number-color matching tasks. The study will be conducted with volunteer participants at the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Darülaceze Directorate, and written and verbal informed consent will be obtained from all participants in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.

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