Spatial disturbance: Early sign of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have pioneered a study using virtual reality (VR) to identify early signs of Alzheimer's disease through impaired spatial navigation in asymptomatic adults at risk.

By testing 100 middle-aged adults with genetic, familial, or lifestyle risk factors for Alzheimer's, the study discovered that spatial navigation difficulties in VR environments precede traditional cognitive decline symptoms. Notably, this impairment was more pronounced in men than women, suggesting a gender-specific vulnerability.

This innovative approach could lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment of Alzheimer's, especially with emerging anti-amyloid therapies that target early stages of the disease.

Source: Neuroscience News