XR-based Neurophysiological Approaches to the Rehabilitation of Spatial Neglect

Short Term Scientific Mission Report by Britta Stammler.

In October 2026, I carried out a Short-Term Scientific Mission within COST Action CA24123 (neuroXRehab) at the HEI-Lab of Lusófona University, hosted by Andreia Geraldo, with visits to the lab’s sites in Porto and Lisbon. The aim was to learn about XR-based and neurophysiological approaches to the rehabilitation of spatial neglect and to lay the groundwork for joint research between the Medical University of Innsbruck and the HEI-Lab.

During my stay, I toured the laboratory facilities, including the neurophysiological setup and the XR infrastructure, and discussed ongoing and planned projects with the host team.

Two concrete collaborations emerged. First, we will investigate whether NEGAMI, an augmented reality training for neglect currently delivered on a tablet, can be transferred to AR glasses. Patients have to hold the tablet with one hand while rotating their trunk, which can be a limitation, especially for those with hemiparesis. A hands-free headset version could make the training more accessible, and we plan to compare both formats. Second, Andreia Geraldo is planning to map how neglect therapy is currently provided in Portugal, using the same questionnaire we have already conducted in Germany.

For the Action, both projects feed directly into WG3’s work on defining requirements for XR-based neglect treatment that function in everyday clinical practice.

Beyond the research, I got to experience what a wonderful country Portugal is, and thanks to Andreia also its cuisine, from bacalhau to pastéis de nata.