New 3D software for stroke & early dementia patients

A new three-dimensional software has been developed to test and rehabilitate brain function in patients of stroke and early dementia. 

The virtual reality simulation program is the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region, developed by doctors from the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI) and staff from the Integrated Health Information Systems (IHiS). 

The software works like an interactive game - simulating real-life situations that Asian patients can easily relate to. 

These include activities such as going to a supermarket for grocery and choosing ingredients to prepare breakfast. 

The program rewards patients with instant feedback and sound effects and has different complexity levels to match different abilities. 

As the patient performs different tasks with the computer controls, data from his actions and decisions are tracked and captured. 

NNI plans to implement the virtual reality simulation program next year at all its clinics which specialise in the assessment and diagnosis of memory disorders. 

There are also plans to extend the service to patients at regional hospitals through the tele-health infrastructure that IHiS is setting up.