Abstract
Objectives
To assess the feasibility of using group-based fully immersive virtual reality (VR)
across multiple sessions to reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSs), including
depression, anxiety, and agitated behaviors, in cognitively diverse aged care residents.
Design
A 6-session feasibility trial was conducted within a residential aged care facility
using convenience sampling to recruit N = 25 residents of varying cognitive capacity.
Groups of 5 residents viewed 360-degree videos on a wireless head-mounted display
to provide fully immersive VR experiences.
Setting and participants
Half of the participants recruited from the 160-bed facility had a diagnosis of dementia
(48%), whereas assessment with the Psychogeriatric Assessment Scale for cognitive
impairment revealed that 64% experienced cognitive impairment (mild 20%, moderate
16%, and severe 28%). Additionally, 32% of participants had an existing anxiety or
depression diagnosis.
Measures
The Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item,
and Cohen Mansfield Agitation Inventory–Short were used to assess changes in persisting
BPS pre- to postintervention period. The Person-Environment Apathy Rating apathy subscale,
Observed Emotions Rating Scale, and a visual analog scale (Smileometer) were used
to assess immediate mood responses from residents at every VR session. VR tolerability
and resident feedback was also recorded.
Results
Pleasure (z = −5.892, P < .001) and general alertness (z = −2.455, P = .014) of participants improved at VR sessions, whereas apathy diminished (z = −5.275, P < .001). Compared to baseline, post-intervention depression was significantly lowered
(z = −2.60, P = .009), whereas agitation increased (z = −2.98, P = .003). No significant changes in anxiety were observed. The quality of 360-degree
videos and the device used did not induce any major VR-related negative side effects.
Conclusions and implications
Overall group-based VR reduced depressive symptoms and apathy, and induced a positive
emotional response in most residents, with few observed side effects. Results indicate
feasibility of group-based VR technological innovation within RAC.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 26, 2021
Footnotes
This research was supported by the NHMRC Boosting Dementia Research Leadership Fellowship awarded to Dr Nadeeka Dissanayaka and Australian Association of Gerontology RM Gibson Research Fund.
Two researchers were employed by the not-for-profit organization that participated in the study at the time of data collection; one was employed at the trial site and the other by a separate department. There were no provisions on this publication.
Identification
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© 2021 AMDA - The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine.
