Using Virtual Reality to Help Children with ADHD Improve Executive Functions
Official title: Virtual Reality in Rehabilitation of Executive Functions in Children (VREALFUN)
Run by Oulu University Hospital · NCT06123741 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if virtual reality games can help children with ADHD improve their attention and thinking skills while getting support from their parents.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 8 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 88 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Oulu University Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Oulu) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 10, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06123741 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 8-12 who have been diagnosed with ADHD and are currently on methylphenidate medication.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with conditions such as epilepsy, severe cerebral palsy, or other significant neurological disorders may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project aims to develop a novel rehabilitation method using Virtual Reality (VR) for children aged 8-12 diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The intervention involves VR games designed to enhance attention and executive functions by simulating real-life situations. Participants will receive parental guidance alongside the VR training to support their rehabilitation process. The study employs a randomized control design to evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the everyday functioning and quality of life for children with ADHD.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of VR in rehabilitation is a growing field, this specific approach targeting ADHD in children is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in previous studies.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of ADHD (ICD-10 F90.0) and * Methylphenidate medication and * Age 8-12 years and * Finnish as a native language Exclusion Criteria: * Sensitivity to flashing light, * Epilepsy (ICD-10 G40), * Mental retardation (ICD-10 F70-F79), * Pervasive developmental disorders (ICD-10 F84), * Inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system (ICD-10 G00-G09), * Severe cerebral palsy syndrome (ICD-10 G80, GMFCS 4-5, MACS 3-5), * Traumatic brain injury ((ICD-10 S06), * Brain tumour, and * Multiple pregnancy
Where it's running
-
Oulu University Hospital
Oulu, Finland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Merja Nikula, M.Psych. — Oulu University Hospital
- Study coordinator: Merja Nikula, M.Psych.
- Email: merja.nikula@pohde.fi
- Phone: +3588315 5218
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.