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Mirchi Z, Kheirkhah MT, Khosrowabadi R, Fadardi JS, Ramezani M. Development of a real-world simulated instrument for evaluating visuospatial working memory: a preliminary psychometric study on older adults. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:548. [PMID: 38914947 PMCID: PMC11197279 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-05140-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A prevalent challenge in neuropsychological assessment, particularly when utilizing instruments designed for controlled laboratory environments, is that the outcomes may not correspond to an individual's real-life status. Accordingly, assessments of visuospatial working memory (VSWM) conducted in such settings might fail to capture certain facets of this function, as it operates in real life. On the other hand, entirely ecological assessments may risk compromising internal validity. This study aimed to develop an intermediate mode of assessment that measures VSWM in older adults by employing a setting, a task, and a response format that aligns closely with both laboratory and ecological assessments. Furthermore, a preliminary investigation was carried out to study the variations in spatial cognition among different demographic groups. METHODS In a two-session study, 77 healthy older adults, eight patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and seven patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) were recruited to complete the wayfinding questionnaire (WQ), the Corsi block-tapping task (CBTT), and the Spatial Memory Table (SMT). The SMT is a novel instrument developed specifically for this study, aiming to provide a more accurate measure of VSWM performance in older adults' everyday life. Test-retest and split-half reliabilities, as well as the face, content, concurrent, convergent, and known-groups validities, were analyzed to investigate the psychometric properties of the SMT. RESULTS The analyses were mainly centered on studying the psychometric properties of the SMT. Test-retest reliability (r = .753, p < .001) and split-half reliability (ρSC = 0.747) were found to be acceptable. Concurrent validity using CBTT (r = .264, p = .021), convergent validity using WQ subscales (navigation and orientation: r = .282, p = .014; distance estimation: r = .261, p = .024), and known-groups validity using the SMT scores among people with MCI and AD (χ2 = 35.194, df = 2, p < .001) were also indicative of the instrument's good validity. Data analysis also revealed acceptable levels of face validity (U = 4.50; p = .095) and content validity (CVR ≥ 0.60). As a result of comparing VSWM and wayfinding variables across genders and education levels, a significant difference was observed for navigation and orientation and spatial anxiety between women and men (p < .05). None of the variables were different among education levels. CONCLUSION The SMT was found to be a reliable and valid tool for measuring VSWM performance in older adults. Given these findings, the SMT can be regarded as a measure that sufficiently approximates both laboratory and real-life demands for VSWM. Additionally, the instrument demonstrated a preliminary acceptable capacity to differentiate between healthy individuals and those with MCI and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Mirchi
- Faculty of Education and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taghi Kheirkhah
- Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, no 18., Daneshjoo Blvd., Shahid Shahriari Sq., Tehran, Iran.
| | - Reza Khosrowabadi
- Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, no 18., Daneshjoo Blvd., Shahid Shahriari Sq., Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Salehi Fadardi
- Faculty of Education and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Community and Global Health, Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, CA, USA
- School of Psychology, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Mojdeh Ramezani
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Gentle J, Shakur A, Ivanova M, Gilligan-Lee K. Navigation abilities and spatial anxiety in individuals with and without Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD/Dyspraxia). RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2024; 146:104672. [PMID: 38278038 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2024.104672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Navigation skills are essential for independent living as they allow us to explore our environment; find our way to new locations, refine pathways to familiar locations and retrace our route home. Alongside motor coordination difficulties, there is evidence that individuals with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD/Dyspraxia) experience spatial processing difficulties, which are known to negatively affect navigation abilities. However, although self-reports indicate that adults with DCD have difficulties with sense of direction and navigation, no known studies have measured navigation abilities and strategies in adults with DCD. Furthermore, given evidence that individuals with DCD report higher levels of anxiety, we will additionally investigate associations between anxiety and navigation in this group. AIMS This study compares navigation abilities, navigation strategies and spatial anxiety in adults with and without DCD. METHODS Participants include 226 Adults aged 18-55 years, across two groups 1) DCD (N = 138, 111 F:25 M; 2:Other) 2); Typically Developing (N = 88, 77 F: 11 M). In this cross-sectional study, participants completed a series of tasks on the online Qualtrics platform. This included the Adult Developmental Coordination Disorder Checklist, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Wayfinding Anxiety Measure, the Wayfinding Questionnaire, the Wayfinding Strategy Questionnaire, and a navigation task. RESULTS Our analysis shows that 1) compared to those with typical development, individuals with DCD have similar navigation performance but lower navigation and orientation scores, and distance estimation scores. 2) Movement co-ordination difficulties were only a significant predictor of landmark recognition and egocentric path route knowledge, and played no role for other aspects of navigation performance. 3) For wayfinding strategy use the DCD group used orientation strategies significantly less often than those with typical development, however there was no group difference in the use of route strategies. 4) The DCD group had significantly higher spatial anxiety scores across navigation, manipulation and imagery spatial sub-domains, even after controlling for general anxiety. 5) Spatial navigation anxiety was a significant predictor of navigational skill for all three wayfinding measures (navigation & orientation, distance estimation and spatial anxiety). CONCLUSIONS The findings establish benchmarks of navigational skills in DCD and highlight spatial anxiety and route strategies as factors that may inhibit navigation success and could help specify suitable intervention targets.
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Prevratil MJ, Kossowska-Kuhn D, Gray N, Charness N. Components of navigation ability and their predictors in a community-dwelling sample of older adults. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2023; 4:1239094. [PMID: 37929217 PMCID: PMC10620738 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1239094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Navigation, as a complex skill important for independent living, requires a variety of cognitive processes. Current scales tapping components are lengthy and can be burdensome for older adults. Methods: Community-dwelling older adults (n = 380, age 60-90 years) completed an online survey tapping wayfinding, being lost navigating, and needing help navigating. Participants then completed objective measures of navigation ability and self-reported memory ability. Cronbach's α was calculated for navigation subscales consisting of subsets of the Wayfinding Questionnaire and Santa Barbara Sense of Direction Questionnaire, and an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted. Regression analyses were used to test whether objective navigation, memory, and demographic information navigation predicted navigation subscale performance. Results: Each of the individual subscales demonstrated high reliability. EFA generated five unique factors: routing, mental mapping, navigation in near vicinities, feeling lost in far vicinities, and needing help in far vicinities. Across regression analyses, memory, gender, and performance on the Spatial Orientation Test were significant predictors. Discussion: Navigation is a multi-faceted construct that can be reliably measured using concise surveys. Further research is necessary to understand the intricacies of aging and navigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Prevratil
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
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Seton C, Coutrot A, Hornberger M, Spiers HJ, Knight R, Whyatt C. Wayfinding and path integration deficits detected using a virtual reality mobile app in patients with traumatic brain injury. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282255. [PMID: 36893089 PMCID: PMC9997943 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to navigate is supported by a wide network of brain areas which are particularly vulnerable to disruption brain injury, including traumatic brain injury (TBI). Wayfinding and the ability to orient back to the direction you have recently come (path integration) may likely be impacted in daily life but have so far not been tested with patients with TBI. Here, we assessed spatial navigation in thirty-eight participants, fifteen of whom had a history of TBI, and twenty-three control participants. Self-estimated spatial navigation ability was assessed using the Santa Barbara Sense of Direction (SBSOD) scale. No significant difference between TBI patients and a control group was identified. Rather, results indicated that both participant groups demonstrated 'good' self-inferred spatial navigational ability on the SBSOD scale. Objective navigation ability was tested via the virtual mobile app test Sea Hero Quest (SHQ), which has been shown to predict real-world navigation difficulties and assesses (a) wayfinding across several environments and (b) path integration. Compared to a sub-sample of 13 control participants, a matched subsample of 10 TBI patients demonstrated generally poorer performance on all wayfinding environments tested. Further analysis revealed that TBI participants consistently spent a shorter duration viewing a map prior to navigating to goals. Patients showed mixed performance on the path integration task, with poor performance evident when proximal cues were absent. Our results provide preliminary evidence that TBI impacts both wayfinding and, to some extent, path integration. The findings suggest long-lasting clinical difficulties experienced in TBI patients affect both wayfinding and to some degree path integration ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Seton
- Department of Psychology, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Antoine Coutrot
- Laboratoire d’InfoRmatique en Image et Systèmes d’information, French Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, University of Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Michael Hornberger
- Applied Dementia Research, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Hugo J. Spiers
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, Department of Experimental Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Knight
- Department of Psychology, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Caroline Whyatt
- Department of Psychology, Sport and Geography, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
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van der Ham IJM, Claessen MHG. A clinical guide to assessment of navigation impairment: Standardized subjective and objective instruments and normative data. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2022; 44:487-498. [PMID: 36129157 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2022.2123895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Problems with finding one's way around are frequently reported by neurological patients. However, no dedicated standardized tools exist to assess whether such reports indicate navigation impairment or not. We provide a standardized three-step method to assess navigation ability in neurological patients, based on two recently developed diagnostic tools and normative data. The objective of this method is to assess navigation ability in detail, to allow for appropriate rehabilitation training for navigation impairment. METHOD A population-based sample of 7150 Dutch individuals (age 18-89) filled out the Wayfinding Questionnaire (WQ), to assess their self-reported navigation ability and level of spatial anxiety. Additionally, the participants completed the Leiden Navigation Test (LNT), a brief digital test consisting of five subtasks, assessing distinct domains of navigation ability. Both the WQ and LNT can be found online, free of charge. RESULTS Normative data stratified by gender and age are reported for each of the three subscales of the WQ, and for each of the five subtasks of the LNT. CONCLUSIONS Based on performance data of a very large population-based sample of participants, navigation performance of neurological patients with specific navigation complaints can be assessed in three steps. First, we recommend to inquire about potential problems concerning navigation. Next, in case of navigation complaints, the extent of potential navigation impairment can first be measured with the WQ. Lastly, if impaired scores are found, the LNT can provide objective verification of the perceived impairment, as well as insight into which navigation domains are affected. Such insight will allow for prediction of the practical consequences of the impairment and can be used for informed and tailored rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michiel H G Claessen
- Health, Medical, and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Qi F, Lu Z, Chen Y. Investigating the Influences of Healthcare Facility Features on Wayfinding Performance and Associated Stress Using Virtual Reality. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2022; 15:131-151. [PMID: 35761774 DOI: 10.1177/19375867221108505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined the influences of healthcare facility interior features on users' wayfinding performance and the relationship between stress and wayfinding. BACKGROUND General hospitals in China always present significant wayfinding problems due to their sizes and complexity. Poor wayfinding often leads to a frustrating and stressful user experience. It has not been fully understood how hospital indoor features affect wayfinding and whether an individual's stress levels are associated with wayfinding performance. METHOD We conducted an experiment in which 117 college students, aged 18-33 (M = 21.88, SD = 3.01), performed two tasks in virtual reality environments of outpatient clinics. Stress (skin conductance response) and wayfinding performance (distance ratio and time ratio) were measured. Participants' sense of orientation, navigation ability, distance estimation, and spatial anxiety were captured by a survey. RESULTS Male participants reported a significantly better sense of orientation and less spatial anxiety than females. Participants' stress levels were lower with outdoor window views compared to those without outdoor views. With more environmental features (landmarks and outdoor window views) added to the environments, participants showed significantly better wayfinding performance. No significant relationship was found between wayfinding performance and participants' stress levels in this study. CONCLUSION While individual environmental factors might not have a significant influence, combining multiple elements such as window views and landmarks could lead to better wayfinding performance. More research is needed to examine the relationship between stress and wayfinding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Qi
- Hainan University, Haikou, China.,Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Zhipeng Lu
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Yi Chen
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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7
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Moret-Tatay C, Boccia M, Teghil A, Guariglia C. Testing a Model of Human Spatial Navigation Attitudes towards Global Navigation Satellite Systems. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22093470. [PMID: 35591159 PMCID: PMC9099947 DOI: 10.3390/s22093470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) can provide better data quality for different purposes; however, some age groups might lie outside its use. Understanding the barriers to its adoption is of interest in different fields. This work aims at developing a measurement instrument of the adoption attitudes towards this technology and examining the relationship of variables such as age and gender. A UTAUT model was tested on 350 participants. The main results can be summarised as follows: (i) the proposed GNSS scale on human spatial navigation attitudes towards geopositioning technology showed optimal psychometric properties; (ii) although statistically significant differences were found in the Wayfinding Questionnaire (WQ) between men and women, these did not reach the level of statistical significance for the scores on attitudes towards GNSS; (iii) by testing a model on human spatial navigation attitudes towards geopositioning technology, it was possible to show a higher relationship with age in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Moret-Tatay
- MEB Lab, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Burjassot, 46100 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Maddalena Boccia
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (A.T.)
- Cognitive and Motor Rehabilitation and Neuroimaging Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Teghil
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (A.T.)
- Cognitive and Motor Rehabilitation and Neuroimaging Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Guariglia
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (A.T.)
- Cognitive and Motor Rehabilitation and Neuroimaging Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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8
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Is It Just Face Blindness? Exploring Developmental Comorbidity in Individuals with Self-Reported Developmental Prosopagnosia. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12020230. [PMID: 35203993 PMCID: PMC8870183 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental prosopagnosia (DP)—or ‘face blindness’—refers to life-long problems with facial recognition in the absence of brain injury. We know that neurodevelopmental disorders tend to co-occur, and this study aims to explore if individuals with self-reported DP also report indications of other neurodevelopmental disorders, deficits, or conditions (developmental comorbidity). In total, 115 individuals with self-reported DP participated in this online cross-sectional survey. Face recognition impairment was measured with a validated self-report instrument. Indications of difficulties with navigation, math, reading, or spelling were measured with a tailored questionnaire using items from published sources. Additional diagnoses were measured with direct questions. We also included open-ended questions about cognitive strengths and difficulties. Results: Overall, 57% reported at minimum one developmental comorbidity of interest, with most reflecting specific cognitive impairment (e.g., in memory or object recognition) rather than diagnostic categories (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia). Interestingly, many participants reported cognitive skills or strengths within the same domains that others reported impairment, indicating a diverse pattern of cognitive strengths and difficulties in this sample. The frequency and diversity of self-reported developmental comorbidity suggests that face recognition could be important to consider in future investigations of neurodevelopmental comorbidity patterns.
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9
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Lovegrove RA, Baumann O. Using visual scene memory accuracy as a predictor of spatial navigation performance. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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10
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van der Kuil MNA, Evers AWM, Visser-Meily JMA, van der Ham IJM. Spatial knowledge acquired from first-person and dynamic map perspectives. PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2021; 85:2137-2150. [PMID: 32772158 PMCID: PMC8357693 DOI: 10.1007/s00426-020-01389-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
As we become familiar with an environment through navigation and map study, spatial information is encoded into a mental representation of space. It is currently unclear to what degree mental representations of space are determined by the perspective in which spatial information is acquired. The overlapping model of spatial knowledge argues that spatial information is encoded into a common spatial representation independent of learning perspective, whereas the partially independent model argues for dissociated spatial representations specific to the learning perspective. The goal of this study was to provide insight into this debate by investigating the cognitive functions underlying the formation of spatial knowledge obtained through different learning perspectives. Hundred participants studied an ecologically valid virtual environment via a first-person and map perspective. The map employed in the study was dynamic, allowing for the disentanglement of learning perspective and sequential information presentation. Spatial knowledge was examined using an array of navigation tasks that assessed both route and survey knowledge. Results show that distinct visuospatial abilities predict route knowledge depending on whether an environment is learned via a first-person or map perspective. Both shared and distinct visuospatial abilities predicted the formation of survey knowledge in the two perspective learning conditions. Additionally, sequential presentation of map information diminishes the perspective dependent performance differences on spatial tasks reported in earlier studies. Overall, the results provide further evidence for the partially dissociated model of spatial knowledge, as the perspective from which an environment is learned influences the spatial representation that is formed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M N A van der Kuil
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Wassenaarseweg 52, 2333 AK, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - A W M Evers
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Wassenaarseweg 52, 2333 AK, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J M A Visser-Meily
- Center of Excellence in Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science & Sports, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - I J M van der Ham
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Wassenaarseweg 52, 2333 AK, Leiden, The Netherlands
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van der Ham IJM, van der Kuil MNA, Claessen MHG. Quality of self-reported cognition: effects of age and gender on spatial navigation self-reports. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:873-878. [PMID: 32233799 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1742658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Subjective measures of cognitive abilities are often used in various environments, such as clinical, experimental, and professional settings. Here, we assess the quality of such measures, specifically looking into the impact of age and gender. Spatial navigation ability will be used as an exemplary case, given its large individual variation and relevance to the healthy aging process. With a navigation experiment and a self-report questionnaire, the objective and subjective navigation performance of 7150 participants (age 18-89 years) was measured. Results showed the participants provided informative estimates of their cognitive performance. However, strong systematic biases were present related to age and gender. Overestimation increased with increasing age. Overestimation was also found for males, whereas underestimation was found for females. Consideration of such biases is recommended when implementing self-report measures of cognition and considering the potential impact these biases may have on cognitive functioning itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ineke J M van der Ham
- Department of Medical, Health and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, the Netherlands
| | | | - Michiel H G Claessen
- Department of Medical, Health and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, the Netherlands
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12
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Iaria G, Slone E. The relationship between mental and physical space and its impact on topographical disorientation. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 178:195-211. [PMID: 33832677 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-821377-3.00009-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
We generate mental representations of space to facilitate our ability to remember things and navigate our environment. Many studies implicitly assume that these representations simply reflect the environments that they represent without considering other factors that influence the extent to which this is the case. Here, we bring together findings from cognitive psychology, environmental psychology, geography, urban planning, and neuroscience to discuss how internalizing the environment involves a complex interplay between bottom-up and top-down mental processes and depends on key characteristics of the physical environment itself. We describe how mental space is structured, the ways in which mental and physical space converge and diverge, and the disparate but complementary techniques used to assess these relationships. Finally, we contextualize this knowledge in the clinical populations affected by acquired and developmental topographical disorientation, exploring mechanisms that cause these patients to get lost in familiar surroundings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Iaria
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Edward Slone
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Hamre C, Fure B, Helbostad JL, Wyller TB, Ihle-Hansen H, Vlachos G, Ursin MH, Tangen GG. Impairments in spatial navigation during walking in patients 70 years or younger with mild stroke. Top Stroke Rehabil 2020; 27:601-609. [PMID: 32316862 DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2020.1755814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Spatial navigation, the ability to determine and maintain a route from one place to another, is needed for independence in everyday life. Knowledge about impairments in spatial navigation in people with mild stroke is scarce.Objectives: To explore impairments in spatial navigation in patients ≤70 years after first-ever mild ischemic stroke (NIHSS≤3) and to explore which variables are associated with these impairments 12 months later.Methods: Patients were examined in the acute phase, and after 3 and 12 months. To assess impairments in spatial navigation, we used the Floor Maze Test (FMT), with time and FMT-errors as outcomes. Patients' perceived navigational skills were collected using self-report. Logistic regression was used to explore which variables (sociodemographic data, stroke characteristics, cognition, and mobility) were associated with impaired navigation ability.Results: Ninety-seven patients (20 females) were included. The mean (SD) age was 55.5 (11.4) years. Timed FMT improved significantly from the acute phase to 12 months (p = <.001). At 12 months, 24 (24.7%) of the participants walked through the maze with errors, and 22 (22.7%) reported spatial navigational problems. The Trail Making Test (TMT)-B was the only variable from the acute phase associated with FMT-errors at 12 months, and being female was the only variable associated with self-reported navigational problems at 12 months.Conclusion: Nearly one in four patients experienced spatial navigation problems 12 months after a mild stroke. Executive function (TMT-B), measured in the acute phase, was associated with navigational impairments (FMT-errors) at 12 months, and being female was associated with self-reported navigational problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotta Hamre
- Department of Physiotherapy, Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Oslo, Norway.,Department of Geriatric Medicine, OUS, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo (UiO), Oslo, Norway.,Department of Neurology, OUS, Oslo, Norway
| | - Brynjar Fure
- Department of Internal Medicine, Central Hospital, Karlstad, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Central Hospital, Karlstad and Örebro, Sweden.,School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Jorunn Lægdheim Helbostad
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Torgeir Bruun Wyller
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, OUS, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo (UiO), Oslo, Norway
| | - Hege Ihle-Hansen
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, OUS, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Neurology, OUS, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Marie Helene Ursin
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Trust, Bærum, Norway
| | - Gro Gujord Tangen
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, OUS, Oslo, Norway.,Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tönsberg, Norway.,Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, UiO, Oslo, Norway
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14
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van der Kuil MNA, Evers AWM, Visser-Meily JMA, van der Ham IJM. The Effectiveness of Home-Based Training Software Designed to Influence Strategic Navigation Preferences in Healthy Subjects. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:76. [PMID: 32256327 PMCID: PMC7092635 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.00076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One approach to the rehabilitation of navigation impairments is to train the use of compensatory egocentric or allocentric navigation strategies. Yet, it is unknown whether and to what degree training programs can influence strategic navigation preferences. In validating this approach, the key assumption that strategic preference can be changed by using a navigation training was assessed in a group of healthy participants (n = 82). The training program consisted of a psychoeducation session and a software package that included either allocentric or egocentric navigation exercises in virtual environments. Strategic navigation preference, objective and self-reported spatial abilities were assessed in pre- and post-training sessions. Based on their pre-training strategic preference, participants received either the egocentric training (n = 19) or the allocentric training (n = 21) version of the training. These participants engaged in four training sessions over a period of 2-3 weeks. The second group of participants did not use the training software (n = 43) and served as a control group. The results show that 50% of participants that received the egocentric training shifted from an allocentric to and an egocentric strategic preference. The proportion of participants that switched their strategic preference as a result of the allocentric training was identical to this proportion in the control group (19%). The training did not affect objective and self-reported navigation abilities as measured in the pre- and post-training sessions. We conclude that strategic navigation preferences can be influenced by using home-based training in healthy participants. However, using the current approach, only a preference shift from an allocentric to an egocentric navigation strategy could be achieved. The effectiveness of this navigation strategy training should next be assessed in relevant patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan N A van der Kuil
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Andrea W M Evers
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Johanna M A Visser-Meily
- Center of Excellence in Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ineke J M van der Ham
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
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15
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Mendez-Lopez M, Fidalgo C, Osma J, Juan MC. Wayfinding Strategy and Gender - Testing the Mediating Effects of Wayfinding Experience, Personality and Emotions. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2020; 13:119-131. [PMID: 32099489 PMCID: PMC6999780 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s236735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Individual differences have been seen to play a key role in spatial orientation. Gender implications have been previously described but little is known about how other variables, such as wayfinding anxiety, emotional difficulties and wayfinding experience can mediate this relationship. Methods A group of 269 participants were involved in this study and completed questionnaires on their self-reported allocentric orientation strategy, wayfinding experience and satisfaction with the ability for wayfinding. Emotional outcomes were also investigated: spatial and trait anxiety, neuroticism, difficulties in emotion regulation, and personal safety. First, a principal component analysis was conducted and the studied variables were grouped into four components: outdoor wayfinding experience, wayfinding-related fear, emotional difficulties, and effective wayfinding skill. Afterwards, structural equation modelling was performed, using the MPLUS statistical program. Results The results showed that gender constitutes a predictor for using an effective wayfinding skill and for feeling wayfinding-related fear. However, outdoor wayfinding experience, wayfinding-related fear and emotional difficulties did not mediate the relationship between effective wayfinding skill and gender. Conclusion These results highlight the differential contribution of gender in the emotions that are experienced during spatial orientation and emotions that are related to other types of situations. The limitations, strengths and theoretical implications of the proposed model are discussed. Further investigation is needed in order to understand the role of emotions in spatial orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Mendez-Lopez
- Departamento de Psicología y Sociología, Universidad de Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas, Teruel, Spain
| | - Camino Fidalgo
- Departamento de Psicología y Sociología, Universidad de Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas, Teruel, Spain
| | - Jorge Osma
- Departamento de Psicología y Sociología, Universidad de Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas, Teruel, Spain
| | - M-Carmen Juan
- Instituto Universitario de Automática e Informática Industrial, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
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Ulrich S, Grill E, Flanagin VL. Who gets lost and why: A representative cross-sectional survey on sociodemographic and vestibular determinants of wayfinding strategies. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0204781. [PMID: 30699119 PMCID: PMC6353538 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
When we think of our family and friends, we probably know someone who is good at finding their way and someone else that easily gets lost. We still know little about the biological and environmental factors that influence our navigational ability. Here, we investigated the frequency and sociodemographic determinants of wayfinding and their association with vestibular function in a representative cross-sectional sample (N = 783) of the adult German-speaking population. Wayfinding was assessed using the Wayfinding Strategy Scale, a self-report scale that produces two scores for each participant representing to what degree they rely on route-based or orientation (map-based) strategies. We were interested in the following research questions: (1) the frequency and determinants of wayfinding strategies in a population-based representative sample, (2) the relationship between vestibular function and strategy choice and (3) how sociodemographic factors influence general wayfinding ability as measured using a combined score from both strategy scores. Our linear regression models showed that being male, having a higher education, higher age and lower regional urbanization increased orientation strategy scores. Vertigo/dizziness reduced the scores of both the orientation and the route strategies. Using a novel approach, we grouped participants by their combined strategy scores in a multinomial regression model, to see whether individuals prefer one strategy over the other. The majority of individuals reported using either both or no strategy, instead of preferring one strategy over the other. Young age and reduced vestibular function were indicative of using no strategy. In summary, wayfinding ability depends on both biological and environmental factors; all sociodemographic factors except income. Over a third of the population, predominantly under the age of 35, does not successfully use either strategy. This represents a change in our wayfinding skills, which may result from the technological advances in navigational aids over the last few decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Ulrich
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometrics and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Eva Grill
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometrics and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Virginia L. Flanagin
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- * E-mail:
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17
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Claessen MHG, Visser-Meily JMA, Meilinger T, Postma A, de Rooij NK, van der Ham IJM. A systematic investigation of navigation impairment in chronic stroke patients: Evidence for three distinct types. Neuropsychologia 2017; 103:154-161. [PMID: 28684296 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In a recent systematic review, Claessen and van der Ham (2017) have analyzed the types of navigation impairment in the single-case study literature. Three dissociable types related to landmarks, locations, and paths were identified. This recent model as well as previous models of navigation impairment have never been verified in a systematic manner. The aim of the current study was thus to investigate the prevalence of landmark-based, location-based, and path-based navigation impairment in a large sample of stroke patients. METHOD Navigation ability of 77 stroke patients in the chronic phase and 60 healthy participants was comprehensively evaluated using the Virtual Tübingen test, which contains twelve subtasks addressing various aspects of knowledge about landmarks, locations, and paths based on a newly learned virtual route. Participants also filled out the Wayfinding Questionnaire to allow for making a distinction between stroke patients with and without significant subjective navigation-related complaints. RESULTS Analysis of responses on the Wayfinding Questionnaire indicated that 33 of the 77 participating stroke patients had significant navigation-related complaints. An examination of their performance on the Virtual Tübingen test established objective evidence for navigation impairment in 27 patients. Both landmark-based and path-based navigation impairment occurred in isolation, while location-based navigation impairment was only found along with the other two types. CONCLUSIONS The current study provides the first empirical support for the distinction between landmark-based, location-based, and path-based navigation impairment. Future research relying on other assessment instruments of navigation ability might be helpful to further validate this distinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel H G Claessen
- Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, The Netherlands; Center of Excellence in Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, The Netherlands; Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, The Netherlands.
| | - Johanna M A Visser-Meily
- Center of Excellence in Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science & Sports, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tobias Meilinger
- Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Albert Postma
- Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolien K de Rooij
- Center of Excellence in Rehabilitation Medicine, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, The Netherlands
| | - Ineke J M van der Ham
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, The Netherlands
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