Researchers from the University of Cambridge have shown that using virtual reality ( VR ) devices can help identify those at risk of developing Alzheimer 's much earlier . By creating simulated environments within VR headsets to test navigational skills , neuro - researchers have been able to link poor performance with early signs of the disease . Around 300 people, aged between 40 and 60, will be recruited to take part in the study. While memory - loss is often thought of as the first sign of the neuro - degenerative disease , it is becoming increasingly accepted that difficulty with navigation is one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer 's .
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have shown that using virtual reality ( VR ) devices can help identify those at risk of developing Alzheimer 's much earlier . By creating simulated environments within VR headsets to test navigational skills , neuro - researchers have been able to link poor performance with early signs of the disease . While memory - loss is often thought of as the first sign of the neuro - degenerative disease , it is becoming increasingly accepted that difficulty with navigation is one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer 's .