Using a Virtual Environment to Boost Social Engagement and Well-Being in Older Adults with Memory Changes
Official title: A Social Engaging Restorative Virtual Environment (SERVE) Volunteer Intervention to Support Social Engagement and Well-Being in Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment
Funded at Cornell University · NIH-11136310 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project explores if a virtual reality program, where older adults with memory changes volunteer and interact, can improve their social connections and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $733,954 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG082831-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136310 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal participants for this type of intervention would be older adults, aged 21 and above, who are experiencing mild cognitive impairment or early stages of Alzheimer's Disease Related Dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those who are uncomfortable with virtual reality technology may not find this intervention beneficial.
What this research studies
As we age, some people experience memory changes or conditions like mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's-related dementias (ADRD), which can affect daily life and lead to isolation. This project introduces a special virtual reality program called SERVE, designed to help older adults with these memory changes connect with others through volunteering activities. By participating in this engaging virtual environment, we hope to see improvements in social interaction, mental sharpness, and overall quality of life. We also want to understand exactly how this program helps, so we can make it even better in the future.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this virtual reality program could offer a new, accessible way for older adults with cognitive impairment to stay socially active, improve their mood, and maintain their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While virtual reality is an emerging tool in this area, other studies have shown promise for technology-based interventions in supporting cognitive function and social engagement in older adults.
Where this research is happening
-
Cornell University
Ithaca, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kalantari, Saleh — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Kalantari, Saleh
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.