Grant: Collaborative Health Research Projects

The Problem: Neurological disease such as stroke, Parkinson's disease and even neurological changes underlying normal aging are commonly associated with cognitive impairments (problems with attention, memory and thinking) that are difficult to treat and result in chronic disability, dependence on family resources and chronic need for continued health care resources. Given the high prevalence of these diseases, there is great need for better treatments. The current challenge is that current health care resources and effective treatments for cognitive impairment are limited. With the advances and availability of flexible and powerful computer software and hardware, there is now an opportunity to translate current knowledge in cognitive neuroscience into novel, evidence-based, computerized technologies that can provide intensive and accessible treatment in home or hospital. The Solution: Our proposed multi-disciplinary project includes cognitive scientists, neuro-rehabilitation specialists, biomedical engineers and human computer interface designers to develop novel computerized, game-like technologies for the assessment (Dalhousie Computerized Attention Assessment Battery, DalCAB) and targeted treatment (Cognitive Repair Kit) of cognitive dysfunction. The goal of the proposed CHRP project is to conduct iterative usability studies on computer prototypes currently available. These studies will ensure that our products will be flexible enough to be usable by a range of end-users, many of whom will have functional limitations (e.g., sensory-motor deficits) due to the neurological involvement. These sensory and motor limitations need thorough consideration in an iterative prototype design and testing cycle in order to identify hardware and/or software innovations so that intended clients will not experience any significant impediments to their use. The ultimate goal of our research program is to develop a flexible, commercializable computer-based cognitive assessment and intervention package for improving the adaptive functioning and quality of life for individuals who have cognitive deficits