The objective of this study is to estimate the feasibility and acceptability of cognitive training in the virtual reality setting with children undergoing radiotherapy for brain tumors. To achieve this goal, the investigators plan to study children undergoing radiotherapy for brain tumors randomly assigned to cognitive training administered via an iPad or virtual reality. Both groups will also participate in cognitive testing and exams using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) pre- and post-intervention. The questions to be investigated are:
1. Will cognitive training via virtual reality be feasible and acceptable for children undergoing radiotherapy for brain tumors as indicated by participation rates, adherence and frequency of side effects? 2. Will cognitive training via virtual reality provide neurocognitive benefits? 3. Will there be predictable changes in brain activity as measured by neuroimaging?
Findings from this study will be used to develop a larger, definitive trial with direct potential to improve cognitive outcomes for children treated for cancer using a safe and effective alternative to desktop- or laptop-based computerized cognitive interventions with great promise for improving quality of life.
Initiating radiotherapy for a BT
Between 8-22 years of age at the time of enrollment
English or Spanish as the primary language
Research participant and one parent willing to participate and provide consent/assent according to institutional guidelines
Significant impairment in global intellectual functioning (estimated or full scale IQ < 70 based on standardized testing routinely conducted on primary treatment protocols or as part of the New Oncology Program in Psychology [NOPP])
History of significant neurological disease preceding BT diagnosis including stroke or head injury with loss of consciousness
Major sensory or motor impairment that would preclude valid cognitive testing secondary to inability to complete study procedures (e.g., blindness, paresis, poorly controlled seizures/photosensitive epilepsy, inadequate balance to sit or stand unassisted to complete cognitive training)
Psychiatric condition that would preclude or take precedence over study participation (e.g. active psychosis, suicidal ideation)