Exploring virtual reality environments for older adults
Develop and Explore the Effects of Virtual Reality Based Natural Environment Intervention Programs on Improving Attention, Emotion, and Cognitive Function of Elders With Mild Cognitive Impairment
This study is testing if virtual reality experiences of nature can help older adults feel better emotionally and improve their attention and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 240 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Taipei, Taiwan) |
| Trial ID | NCT05803460 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to develop and assess the effects of virtual reality-based natural environment interventions on improving attention, emotion, and cognitive function in older adults. It consists of three stages: the first stage compares the effects of real versus virtual natural environments on attention and emotional recovery; the second stage evaluates different types of virtual environments; and the third stage tests the overall impact of the virtual reality intervention on cognitive function, anxiety, and depression in institutionalized elders. Participants will be randomly assigned to experimental and control groups, with various outcome measures being assessed.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 65 and older who are cognitively normal and can communicate in Chinese or Taiwanese.
Not a fit: Patients with mental illnesses, significant vision or hearing problems, or those diagnosed with dementia may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance the cognitive and emotional well-being of older adults living in institutions.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in therapeutic settings is gaining traction, this specific approach targeting older adults in institutional settings is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Stage 1 Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 65 years and older in Taipei City 2. Cognitive function is normal (SPMSQ \>8) 3. The subjects can communicate in Chinese or Taiwanese. Exclusion criteria: 1. Diseases affecting the results of the study, such as mental illness 2. Vision or hearing problems 3. Diseases transmitted by eyes or skin 4. People with difficulty in walking. (The SPMSQ test was performed before the intervention to screen the cognitive function of the subjects). Stage 2 and 3 Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 65 years and older 2. living in Institution for 6 months of more 3. The subjects can communicate in Chinese or Taiwanese. Exclusion criteria: 1. Diseases affecting the results of the study, such as mental illness 2. Vision or hearing problems 3. Diseases transmitted by eyes or skin 4. People with dementia diagnosis or screening SPMSQ \< 6 (The SPMSQ test was performed before the intervention to screen the cognitive function of the subjects).
Where this trial is running
Taipei, Taiwan
- National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University — Taipei, Taiwan, Taiwan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Cheng-Chen Chou, Ph.D — Nursing
- Study coordinator: Cheng-Chen Chou, Ph.D
- Email: chou8278@gmail.com
- Phone: +886 2 28267000
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.