Validation d'une tâche de classement à l'intérieur du Virtual Multitasking Test (VMT-2) et effets du vieillissement normal
Normal aging is a natural process characterized by cognitive, functional and neuroanatomic changes. Executive functions (EF) are sensible to age effects. A dysfunction in this area is closely related to impairment in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). To date, traditional neuropsychological evaluation is the most widely used approach for cognitive assessment. However, its low ecological validity is often questioned. Virtual reality (VR) is presented as an interesting alternative because it evaluates the degree of functionality by reproducing more accurately real-life situations. The use of VR technology in the field of cognitive aging is still at its early stages. Thus, the objectives of this research were the following: (1) to differentiate healthy younger and older adults in a sorting task of the Virtual Multitasking Test (VMT-2) and (2) to study the validity of the sorting task regardless of participants’ age, on the one hand, and by controlling for age effect on the other hand. The final sample size (n = 25) included 14 “younger adults” participants and 11 “older adults” participants. Results suggest that elderly took more time to complete the task than younger adults. Significant correlations were also found between VMT-2 measures and performance on neuropsychological measures, especially on executive functioning. However, nuances must be made when we consider the age effect. In conclusion, VMT-2 seems to be a valid tool for cognitive and functional assessment in normal aging. Future research should investigate its utilization with elderly at risk of developing a neurocognitive disorder. This can promote early intervention and thus help maintain functional independence.
Normal aging Executive functions Virtual reality Neuropsychological evaluation