A Mini-Review of Virtual Reality-Based Interventions to Promote Well-Being for People Living with Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment

Abstract

Assistive technology including virtual reality and augmented reality has gained interest as a novel intervention in a range of clinical settings. This technology has the potential to provide mental stimulation, a connection to autobiographical memory through reminiscence, and enhanced quality of life (QoL) to people living with dementia (PLWD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In this mini-review, we examine the available evidence from studies reporting on the potential benefits of virtual and augmented reality to provide enjoyable, leisurely activities that may promote QoL and psychological well-being and facilitate social interaction. In total, 10 studies of varying study designs and durations (5 min to 6 months) using virtual (n = 9) and augmented reality (n = 1) were examined in PLWD (n = 6) and MCI (n= 3), in addition to 1 study that included participants with both conditions. Overall, the virtual experiences were enjoyed by the participants, improved their mood and apathy, and were preferred when compared with nonvirtual experiences. However, small sample sizes and variations in study design limit the generalizability of the results. Nevertheless, the use of virtual and augmented reality technology for PLWD and MCI is a novel and emerging method which may provide cognitive stimulation and improve well-being. Future research should explore the potential application of this technology to promote social interaction in both the community and aged care settings. We suggest future studies in PLWD and MCI assess the effects of more sustained use of virtual and augmented reality technology on psychological outcomes including QoL, apathy, and depressive symptoms, with the incorporation of physiological biomarker outcomes.

Virtual Reality Experience In Long Term Care Resident Older Adults With Dementia: A Case Series

“…A literature review on potential bene ts of VR experience concluded that such experience may provide an opportunity to enjoy leisurely activities that may promote quality of life, psychological well-being, and social interaction in people with dementia without leaving their home [35]. They located nine studies of varying study designs and durations [35]. The common barriers in VR use across the studies were confusion (n=3), discomfort associated with headset (n=2), sadness (n=1), tiredness (n=1), and di culty with the technology (n=1).…”

“…BroomX©) to generate realistic images, sounds and other sensations that simulate an user's physical presence in a virtual or imaginary environment [36]. The technology does not need a specialist/technical person to setup the machine, to use the VR program [35] and is cost effective for people with psychotic disorders [37]. A randomized control study in hospitalized patients (n=116) with psychotic disorders found that six months' VR experience improved participants' Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALY) (effect size [ES]=0.01, 95% CI 0.03-0.07) [37].…”

“…Individuals with dementia enjoy virtual experiences [35,39] but its effect can be negligible on emotion (ES=0.1, 95% CI -0.07 to 0.36) and execution of daily activities (ES=0.1, 95% CI -0.3 to 0.49 ) when provided with a headset without music [40]. To date there is no published research about the use of VR experience with BroomX© as a non-pharmacologic intervention in LTC residents with moderate to severe dementia and BPSD.…”

Virtual Reality Experience In Long Term Care Resident Older Adults With Dementia: A Case Series 

“…Various activities (e.g. listening to music, singing, dancing, reading, painting, drawing, cooking, knitting, talking, listening to others, playing with a pet, playing video games, and virtual reality [VR] experience) engaging individuals with mental stimulation, reminiscence, and orientation had been used as non-pharmacologic interventions in clinical setting [33][34][35].…”

“…VR experience is considered a computer-generated non-pharmacologic intervention focusing on sensory stimulation using a virtual environment [35,36]. An individual using VR can look around or move around in an arti cial environment [36].…”