Using virtual reality to promote physical activity and social connection in adults
The Virtually Engaging Socially With Physical Activity (VESPA) Pilot Study
This study is testing whether using virtual reality can help adults aged 45-80 who are not very active to get moving and connect with others while exercising from home.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 45 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Wake Forest University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Winston-Salem, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT04756245 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to address the barriers to physical activity among adults aged 45-80 by utilizing virtual reality (VR) and telehealth technologies. Participants will engage in group-based physical activity programs delivered through VR, which enhances social presence and interaction. The study targets individuals who are low-active and provides an opportunity for them to connect with an 'activity buddy' while participating in enjoyable physical activities from home. By leveraging technology, the study seeks to make effective physical activity interventions more accessible to a broader audience.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 45-80 with a body mass index between 30-45 kg/m2 who are low-active and have access to the necessary technology.
Not a fit: Patients with significant visual or hearing impairments, or those who are dependent on mobility aids like canes or walkers, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly increase physical activity levels and improve social connections among older adults, leading to better overall health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in promoting physical activity is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using telehealth for similar interventions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age of 45-80 years * Body mass index between 30-45 kg/m2 * Low-active (30 or more minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on 2 or fewer days per week) * Have access to home Wi-Fi * Have regular access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone to receive teleconferencing calls * Have a clear "VR space" (7'x7' object-free space) * Have an "Activity buddy" (spouse, child, caregiver, etc.) * Modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS-M) score of 32 or greater * Consent from a physician for study participation * Proficient in the English language * Willingness to create or use existing personal Facebook account for virtual reality activities. Exclusion Criteria: * Current involvement in other physical activity research studies * Hearing or sight impairments (significant visual or hearing impairment that cannot be corrected and results in the inability to use the telephone or hear normal conversation, colorblindness) * Dependence on a cane or walker * More than 1 fall in the past year * Contraindication to exercise * Current or recent history within the last 6 months of: symptomatic coronary heart disease, cancer, liver or renal disease, severe pulmonary disease, gross physical impairment, or uncontrolled hypertension; myocardial infarction or cardiovascular procedure within the last 3 months * History of or diagnosis of photosensitive epilepsy * Score of "severe" on any question in the Virtual Reality Sickness Questionnaire; * Unwillingness to use a head-mounted virtual reality system * Current severe or untreated depression
Where this trial is running
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Wake Forest University — Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jason Fanning, PhD — Wake Forest University
- Study coordinator: Kyle Kershner, BS
- Email: kerski19@wfu.edu
- Phone: 336-758-3728
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.