The Feasibility, Safety and Tolerability of VR-based Audiovisual Stimulation

Audiovisual stimulation is a non-invasive approach that uses synchronized light and sound stimuli to modulate neural activity and cognitive processes. Recent literature suggests that when applied chronically, audiovisual stimulation may slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In contrast to traditional methods employing Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and computer screens for the delivery of visual stimuli, our study explores the feasibility, safety, and tolerability of delivering acute audiovisual stimulation via a Virtual Reality (VR) headset. The investigators plan to recruit a total of 50 participants (n=25 mild AD or MCI due to AD and n=25 cognitively healthy participants). Audiovisual stimulation will be delivered over one experimental session to every participant. Stimuli will be embedded in passive environments and in a sound-video associative memory task. All participants will be exposed to stimulation at different frequencies and a sham condition will be used as a control. To determine the feasibility of VR-based audiovisual stimulation, the investigators will use electroencephalography (EEG) and measure the responsiveness of participants' brain activity to the acute intervention. Safety and tolerability will be evaluated using questionnaires. This clinical trial aims to provide valuable insights into the development of a non-invasive therapy for early-stage Alzheimer's disease, while assessing the feasibility and safety of using VR technology to deliver audiovisual stimulation.