Using virtual reality to improve symptoms in hospice patients
Virtual Reality for Improving Symptoms in Palliative Care
NA · Western University, Canada · NCT05197894
This study tests if using virtual reality can help improve symptoms for hospice patients, including those with cancer and other illnesses.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Western University, Canada (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Windsor, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT05197894 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) in alleviating symptoms for patients in palliative care within a hospice setting. It will involve measuring symptom severity using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) before and after VR experiences, as well as one week later to assess sustainability of any improvements. The study will include both cancer and non-cancer hospice patients, expanding the population previously studied. Participants will be required to provide consent and will undergo symptom assessments at baseline and post-intervention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are admitted to hospice for specialty palliative care.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment, very low palliative performance, or those unable to participate in VR due to physical limitations may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the quality of life for hospice patients by reducing their symptoms through immersive VR experiences.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with VR in palliative care, but this study aims to confirm efficacy with a larger and more diverse population.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * at least 18 years or older * admitted to Hospice for Specialty Palliative Care Exclusion Criteria: * Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) ≤ 20% * severe cognitive impairment leading to inability to provide ESAS scores for 5 key symptoms measured in this study * severe visual and/or hearing impairment preventing use of VR (glasses and hearing aids may be worn during VR sessions and do not exclude participation) * absolute inability to sit * paralysis of an upper limb * participant dies before VR experience
Where this trial is running
Windsor, Ontario
- The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County — Windsor, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Patricia Valcke, MD
- Email: pvalcke@thehospice.ca
- Phone: (519) 974-7100
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.
Conditions: Cancer and Non-cancer Hospice Patients, virtual reality, palliative care, Edmonton symptom assessment scale, Hospice, depression, anxiety, pain