Preliminary validation of the Virtual Kitchen Challenge as an objective and sensitive measure of everyday function associated with cerebrovascular disease

Abstract

Preliminary validity of a computer-based test of everyday function (Virtual Kitchen Challenge [VKC]) was examined against brain-imaging markers of cerebrovascular disease and in contrast to conventional neuropsychological and self-report measures. Twenty community-dwelling older adults (n = 6 mild cognitive impairment) performed simulated breakfast and lunch tasks using a computer touchscreen (VKC). Automated measures (completion time, proportion time off screen, etc.) were computed during training and test conditions. White matter hyperintensity (WMH) volumes from brain magnetic resonance imaging and conventional measures of cognition and function also were obtained. VKC completion time and proportion time off screen improved significantly from training to test and were significantly associated with WMH volume (r > 0.573). VKC measures and WMH were not significantly correlated with conventional cognitive or self-report measures. The VKC holds promise as a valid measure of subtle functional difficulties in older adults that is sensitive to change and cerebrovascular pathology, highlighting its potential for clinical trials. Highlights: Virtual Kitchen Challenge (VKC) scores showed significant improvement from training to test conditions. VKC scores (completion time and proportion of time off screen) were associated with a neuroimaging biomarker of brain health (white matter hyperintensities).