Technological solution for the assessment and rehabilitation of visuo-cognition in Parkinson's disease.

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) commonly affects both visual and cognitive functions, which is complicated by the fact that these functions are inter-related (termed visuo-cognition). Visuo-cognitive deficits range from impairments in basic visual functions (i.e. acuity and contrast sensitivity) to higher levels of visual attention and perception. Studies have shown that people with PD are more likely to experience visual impairments, and these impairments are associated with an increased risk of hip fracture, depression, anxiety, dementia, and hallucinations [1]. Furthermore, visuo-cognitive dysfunction is associated with freezing of gait in PD, which is one of the most common reasons for falls and dependency in this population [2]. Accurate and timely diagnosis of visuo-cognitive impairments is important in PD, as early intervention could prevent loss of independence and reduce falls risk. In practice, visuo-cognitive function is assessed using pen and paper outcome measures or eye charts, which can be subjective (based on expert rating), time-consuming and only examine global function. Visuo-cognitive function is rarely considered for rehabilitation in PD, with limited studies using eye movement exercises, pen and paper tasks, or inter-active games to improve visuo-cognitive performance. There is a need for a more objective technological approach that can comprehensively assess and provide rehabilitation for visuo-cognitive deficits in PD. Here, we present the package of visuo-cognitive tools offered by Senaptec Ltd., a company who have developed a series of digital technologies that can be deployed with healthy and clinical populations to assess and rehabilitate visuo-cognitive function (https://senaptec.com/). We discuss how this technology may offer a solution to address the need for faster diagnosis of, and targeted intervention for, visuo-cognitive deficits in PD.