Virtual Reality-assisted Cognitive Rehabilitation in Autistic Youth With ADHD

A Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality-assisted Executive Function Training in Autistic and ADHD Youth

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a virtual reality-based intervention using the Virtual Reality Rehabilitation System (VRRS) to improve executive functions in autistic and ADHD youth aged 8 to 18 years. Executive functions, such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control, are frequently impaired in individuals with autism and/or ADHD and significantly affect daily functioning. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group that receives VRRS-assisted cognitive training or a control group that receives treatment as usual. The intervention includes gamified tasks within immersive virtual environments specifically designed to stimulate executive skills. The primary outcome is the change in executive function scores from baseline to post-intervention, assessed using validated neuropsychological instruments. The study adopts a randomized controlled design.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 8 and 18 years at enrollment
• Clinical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention- Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, based on DSM-5 criteria
• IQ > 70
• Signed Informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian;
• No acute or chronic medical conditions

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age not between 8 and 18 years at enrollment
• Lack of a clinical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
• IQ < 70
• Failure to sign informed consent from a parent or legal guardian;
• Presence of acute or chronic medical conditions