Using serious games to help older cancer patients manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

Serious gaming for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in older adults with cancer: A randomized clinical trial

NIH-funded research University of Central Florida · NIH-10861916

This study is testing a fun game designed to help older adults with cancer learn how to better handle nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, so they can feel more in control of their treatment and improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Central Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Orlando, United States)
Project IDNIH-10861916 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a serious game can help older adults with cancer better manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). The game, called eSSET-CINV, allows players to learn and practice self-management strategies in a simulated environment, helping them to make informed decisions about preventing and addressing nausea. By engaging with the game, participants can overcome misconceptions about CINV management and improve their adherence to treatment. The goal is to empower older adults to take a more active role in their care, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or are younger than 65 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for older cancer patients by reducing the severity and frequency of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown success with similar serious game interventions in improving self-management behaviors among older adults.

Where this research is happening

Orlando, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.