Neglect is a neurological phenomenon that can occur especially after strokes or other brain injuries. Those affected hardly notice or completely ignore one side of the body or space, often without being aware of it. For example, a patient may no longer pay attention to their left hand or only perceive objects on the right side of their visual field. This disorder not only complicates everyday actions such as eating, dressing, or walking, but also presents a particular challenge in rehabilitation.
In therapy, neglect is often treated with targeted exercises to direct attention. Traditionally, visual, auditory, or tactile stimuli are used to activate the neglected side. In recent years, research has shown that modern technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) open up new possibilities in this field. Especially immersive VR environments can motivate patients to deliberately direct their attention to the neglected side of space.
CUREO®, the virtual reality therapy system developed by CUREosity, was designed precisely with this goal in mind: to enrich everyday therapy, increase motivation, and make scientifically proven training methods flexibly accessible. The system offers more than 50 interactive exercises that promote sensory, motor, and cognitive functions. Thanks to its modular design—for example with the Cogni, Active, or Hand modules—the training can be individually tailored to patients’ needs.
One example of an application specifically tailored to neglect is visual field testing and training. This allows for checking visual perception across the entire spatial visual field while simultaneously training its expansion. Patients are playfully encouraged to pay attention even to areas they may have previously neglected.
Gamification elements such as immediate feedback or interactive scenarios additionally ensure that patients remain motivated and continue to repeat the exercises. This way, even demanding training becomes an active and positive experience.
Especially in the case of neglect, immersive VR therapy with CUREO® offers a special added value. It gently and playfully guides patients into the neglected side of space, without them feeling that they are merely performing a medical exercise. Instead, they experience motivating scenarios that keep them active and attentive. This is a crucial building block in neurorehabilitation.
By combining solid science, innovative technology, and playful motivation, CUREO® has the potential to enrich everyday therapy for both patients and therapists alike.
The information presented in this article is based on current scientific research and practical experience with the CUREO system as part of physician-prescribed rehabilitation measures. The success and effectiveness of individual therapy cannot be guaranteed. This article does not replace personal consultation with medical and therapeutic professionals.
_FB_gespiegelt_ak_72dpi_kl.jpg)
