VR detects early Alzheimer's signs through spatial navigation impairments

A study by UCL researchers used VR to detect early signs of Alzheimer’s in 100 at-risk adults. Spatial navigation impairments were found to precede traditional cognitive decline symptoms, particularly in men. This could lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment, crucial for new anti-amyloid therapies. The findings suggest spatial navigation changes may be the earliest diagnostic signal for Alzheimer’s, potentially decades before other symptoms. The study was published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia.