26 June 2024 | Athanasios Drigas and Angeliki Sideraki
This study explores the potential of virtual reality (VR) and brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) in leveraging neuroplasticity for cognitive enhancement and rehabilitation. Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself, is crucial for learning, memory, and adaptation. VR provides a controlled environment to manipulate sensory inputs, while BCIs facilitate real-time monitoring and modulation of neural activity. The combination of VR and BCI can stimulate specific brain regions, trigger neurochemical changes, and influence cognitive functions such as memory, perception, and motor skills. Key findings indicate that VR and BCI interventions are promising for rehabilitation therapies, treatment of phobias and anxiety disorders, and cognitive enhancement. Personalized VR experiences, adapted based on BCI feedback, enhance the efficacy of these interventions. The study uses the PRISMA method to conduct a comprehensive and systematic review of the existing literature, ensuring a rigorous and transparent approach to synthesizing evidence. The results highlight the potential of VR and BCI technologies in promoting neuroplasticity and cognitive enhancement, with applications in healthcare, education, and business. Despite challenges in accuracy, reliability, and ethical considerations, the integration of VR and BCI holds significant promise for advancing brain health and resilience.This study explores the potential of virtual reality (VR) and brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) in leveraging neuroplasticity for cognitive enhancement and rehabilitation. Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself, is crucial for learning, memory, and adaptation. VR provides a controlled environment to manipulate sensory inputs, while BCIs facilitate real-time monitoring and modulation of neural activity. The combination of VR and BCI can stimulate specific brain regions, trigger neurochemical changes, and influence cognitive functions such as memory, perception, and motor skills. Key findings indicate that VR and BCI interventions are promising for rehabilitation therapies, treatment of phobias and anxiety disorders, and cognitive enhancement. Personalized VR experiences, adapted based on BCI feedback, enhance the efficacy of these interventions. The study uses the PRISMA method to conduct a comprehensive and systematic review of the existing literature, ensuring a rigorous and transparent approach to synthesizing evidence. The results highlight the potential of VR and BCI technologies in promoting neuroplasticity and cognitive enhancement, with applications in healthcare, education, and business. Despite challenges in accuracy, reliability, and ethical considerations, the integration of VR and BCI holds significant promise for advancing brain health and resilience.