VRx@Home

Completed

STUDY OVERVIEW

SUMMARY

This pilot study aimed to design and evaluate a novel Virtual Reality (VR)-therapy program for people with dementia (PwD) living at home, with therapy administered by informal caregivers such as family members or friends. The intervention explored VR as a non-pharmacological approach to provide calming and stimulating experiences intended to support emotional wellbeing and reduce dementia-related symptoms such as apathy, depression, and loneliness. Researchers also recognized caregiver wellbeing as a key component, given the significant stress and burden often experienced by those caring for PwD. Caregivers were trained and supported to deliver VR-therapy at home using two technologies—a head-mounted VR display and a tablet—and the study evaluated device acceptability, feasibility of implementation, and effects on outcomes for both PwD and caregivers.

KEY FINDINGS

The findings suggested that both immersive VR and tablet-based approaches were safe and feasible for use in home settings by family caregivers. The tablet was viewed as easier to use, more comfortable, more relaxing, and better suited for shared experiences, while immersive VR was described as more engaging and “more alive” because of its immersive qualities. Overall, both technologies showed potential to improve mood, quality of life, and wellbeing for people with dementia and their caregivers.