Computerized Evaluation of Attention, Learning-Memory, and Executive Function in People with Disability Caused by Injury: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study aims to validate the tests in the VIRTRAEL assessment module for individuals in the chronic stage of Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Methods: A total of 32 participants (81.3% male) were assessed, including 20 individuals who had experienced a stroke (62.5%) and 12 who had experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Cognitive functions such as attention (d2 Attention Test and Digit Subscale of the WAIS-III), learning-memory (HVLT-R and Letters and Numbers Subscale of the WAIS-III), and executive function (Similarities and Matrices Subscales of the WAIS-III and the Zoo Map Test, version 1 of the BADS Battery) were evaluated using standardized paper-and-pencil tests and computerized tests from the VIRTRAEL online platform. Convergent and divergent correlation analyses were conducted using SPSS version 28. Results: Significant correlations were observed between scores in both formats (ranging from r = 0.408 in planning to r = 0.818 in delayed verbal recall), except in reasoning and verbal memory recognition. Conclusions: The tests from the free online platform VIRTRAEL demonstrate adequate validity for the cognitive assessment of individuals with ABI. This suggests that VIRTRAEL is a valuable, accessible tool for monitoring cognitive status, potentially benefiting health, education, and social and occupational reintegration.