Grant: Collaborative Health Research Projects

The Problem: Neurological disease such as stroke, Parkinson's disease and even neurological changesunderlying 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 resourcesand chronic need for continued health care resources. Given the high prevalence of these diseases, there is greatneed for better treatments. The current challenge is that current health care resources and effective treatmentsfor cognitive impairment are limited. With the advances and availability of flexible and powerful computersoftware and hardware, there is now an opportunity to translate current knowledge in cognitive neuroscienceinto novel, evidence-based, computerized technologies that can provide intensive and accessible treatment inhome or hospital. The Solution: Our proposed multi-disciplinary project includes cognitive scientists,neuro-rehabilitation specialists, biomedical engineers and human computer interface designers to developnovel computerized, game-like technologies for the assessment (Dalhousie Computerized AttentionAssessment Battery, DalCAB) and targeted treatment (Cognitive Repair Kit) of cognitive dysfunction. Thegoal of the proposed CHRP project is to conduct iterative usability studies on computer prototypes currentlyavailable. These studies will ensure that our products will be flexible enough to be usable by a range ofend-users, many of whom will have functional limitations (e.g., sensory-motor deficits) due to the neurologicalinvolvement. These sensory and motor limitations need thorough consideration in an iterative prototype designand testing cycle in order to identify hardware and/or software innovations so that intended clients will notexperience any significant impediments to their use. The ultimate goal of our research program is to develop aflexible, commercializable computer-based cognitive assessment and intervention package for improving theadaptive functioning and quality of life for individuals who have cognitive deficits