Nature-based virtual reality program for depression in Alzheimer's patients
Nature-based Virtual Reality Intervention for Depression in Alzheimer's Disease: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if a nature-based virtual reality program can help reduce depression in people with Alzheimer's disease by providing enjoyable sessions at home.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 50 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06732128 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This intervention involves a 4-week program utilizing nature-based virtual reality (VR) sessions delivered in-home to address behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), particularly depression, in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Participants will engage in 15-minute VR sessions twice a week, with the option for caregivers to provide feedback on the intervention. The study aims to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of VR as a non-pharmacological treatment for depression in older adults with dementia, addressing barriers such as accessibility and adherence to traditional therapies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 50 and older with a clinical diagnosis of mild to early-moderate Alzheimer's disease and experiencing mild depressive symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with unstable medical or psychiatric conditions, significant visual or hearing impairments, or severe depressive symptoms may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could enhance the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients by reducing depressive symptoms and prolonging their ability to live independently.
How similar studies have performed: While previous literature on VR interventions for older adults is limited, the approach is innovative and has not been extensively tested in this specific context.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical diagnosis of mild to early-moderate stage AD (including mixed dementia with AD) using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Ed. Criteria * Age of 50 years or older * Medical stability to participate in the trial * Patient Health Questionnaire score 5-14 * Investigator judgement on whether the participant is comfortable with technology * Access to WiFi and a smart device for connecting on WebEx and downloading the Fitbit and Muse applications * Have someone available to be present during all sessions Exclusion Criteria: * Unstable medical or psychiatric condition, including substance use based on an investigator opinion * Visual or hearing impairments that would impair participation * Patient Health Questionnaire score 15-27 and/or score of 1 or 2 in section E question 1 of the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia * Any other reason, which will make the study participation intolerable for the participant in the opinion of the study investigator
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH) — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: HARMEHR SEKHON, PhD — CAMH and McGill/St. Mary's Research Centre
- Study coordinator: Ashnie Sukhu, BSc
- Email: ashnie.sukhu@camh.ca
- Phone: (416) 535-8501
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.