Virtual Memory Ecological Battery (V-MEB): A Pilot Study on VR-Based Assessment for Early Detection of Cognitive Decline

This pilot study introduces the Virtual Memory Ecological Battery (VMEB), a novel virtual reality-based assessment tool designed to evaluate memory functioning within ecologically valid environments for early detection of cognitive decline. Traditional neuropsychological assessments often lack ecological validity-the extent to which they reflect real-world cognitive demands. The VMEB addresses this limitation through seven interconnected subtests that simultaneously assess multiple memory domains within naturalistic contexts using an Oculus Meta Quest 3 headset. In this preliminary validation with 10 participants, we compared V-MEB performance with standardized assessments including the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination III, Frontal Assessment Battery, and Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test. Results demonstrated the V-MEB's capacity to capture diverse memory processes within integrated tasks that simulate everyday activities such as navigation, shopping, and cooking. Key methodological innovations include task interdependence, concurrent assessment of multiple memory domains, contextual memory cues, and meaningful environmental embedding. Performance variability across participants suggests sensitivity to individual differences in cognitive functioning. While preliminary, these findings indicate that VR-based ecological assessment may constitute a valuable addition to neuropsychological assessment methods, potentially offering more functionally relevant insights into memory capacities than conventional approaches for detecting subtle cognitive alterations associated with early stages of cognitive decline.