Virtual Reality Therapeutic Modules: Enhanced Cognitive Rehabilitation for Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Cognitive enhancement is becoming increasingly crucial for adolescents with neurodevelopmental impairments. This study highlights the evaluation and treatment of intellectual disabilities in adolescents who have difficulty with daily living activities despite having conceptual-based skills. To assess cognitive skills in these adolescents, the study utilized Virtual Reality (VR) approaches, integrating various modalities in the field of rehabilitation. The research aimed to develop virtual reality therapeutic modules that target two critical aspects of cognitive skills, using behavioral assessment scales tailored for Indian adolescents with intellectual disabilities, such as the Vocational Assessment and Programming System for Persons with Mental Retardation and the Functional Assessment Checklist for Programming. The results of this investigation showed the feasibility of implementing the virtual reality approach with intellectually disabled adolescents, with evaluations based on a single trial and the average time taken to complete the modules. The system was user-friendly, adaptable, and did not require any external hardware. A significant advantage of the developed therapeutic modules is their availability in multiple languages, tailored to the needs of intellectually disabled adolescents. Over time, these virtual reality therapeutic modules can provide a comprehensive rehabilitation program for these adolescents.