Motor and spatial cognition in minimally conscious states
(2012) International Conference on Spatial Cognition
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- Abstract
- Minimally Conscious State (MCS) is a condition of severely altered consciousness, characterized by minimal but definite behavioral evidence of self or environmental awareness. Each of the abstract contributions will focus on different aspects of motor and spatial cognition in MCS, eventually considering comparisons with Vegetative State (VS). Persons with MCS and pervasive motor disabilities tend to be passive and therefore dependent on others in the engagement with their environment. This condition leads to a decrease of environmental stimulation, and consequently of motor and spatial cognition. The possible connection between lack of input stimulation and extinction of goal directed thinking, considering mostly movement and space, will be discussed. One way to help MCS patients to achieve an active role and independent engagement involves the use of assistive technology, namely, microswitches and Speech Generating Devices (SGDs). This assistive technology will be thoroughly described within the symposium. VS and MCS patients can have very different underlying pathomorphological and pathophysiological processes, despite their similar diagnosis. The performances of a large group of these patients in a mental imagery task, comprising both motor and spatial imagery, will be described. Finally, preliminary data from MCS and VS patients, stimulated with transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) and repetitive transcranial stimulation (rTMS) in order to increase arousal and promote the recovery of consciousness will be presented, comprising neurophysiological monitoring with EEG and evoked potentials of the patients.
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Liberati, G., & Birbaumer, N. (2012). Motor and spatial cognition in minimally conscious states. Cognitive Processing : international quarterly of cognitive science, 13(1), 7-8. https://hdl.handle.net/2078.5/195054 (Original work published 2012)