Virtual-Reality Cognitive Training & Assessment in Schizophrenia | C4C

In this study, we aim to establish the construct validity of a newly developed cognitive assessment in individuals with schizophrenia aged 18 to 60. The assessment will involve shopping in a virtual-reality (VR) environment. Forty patients will be recruited from outpatient services to complete the VR task alongside standard cognitive and functional capacity tests, and electroencephalography (EEG) recording. Participants will also receive 12 hours of app-based cognitive training using a smartphone application. They will either play with an immersive or control spatial memory game. Following cognitive training, participants will repeat all assessments. This will allow us to explore: 1) the feasibility of administering a VR cognitive assessment to individuals with schizophrenia, 2) the validity and sensitivity of the VR task, 3) and the effects of remote spatial memory training on cognition and functional capacity.