Nature-based Virtual Reality Intervention for Depression in Alzheimer's Disease

Summary

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), such as depression affect up to 90% patients with dementia. Non-pharmacological treatment of BPSD, can be difficult to access, require caregiver support, travel, and often have long waiting lists. Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative, portable, immersive, and accessible technology which can be used in-home. More information is required on the feasibility of using VR in-home with older adults with dementia. Our study will offer a 4-week program of 15-minutes sessions, twice per week nature-based VR program for BPSD delivered in-home by virtual reality (VR). Additionally, caregivers will have the option of taking part in the study and provide feedback regarding the VR intervention. If successful, this project has the potential to prolong aging in place for individuals with BPSD, as BPSD is a significant factor in institutionalization.

Interventions

• nature-based virtual reality applications and videos · OTHER

  Participants will receive nature-based applications available on the Oculus platform, as well as nature-based 360 videos with the same content as the control group however in a 360 format.

• nature-based videos · OTHER

  Participants will receive YouTube links to watch nature-based videos on a device (e.g., a tablet).

Published eligibility criteria

Verbatim from the registry. Only the site can decide how these apply to a specific patient.

Inclusion Criteria:

* Clinical diagnosis of mild to early-moderate stage AD (including mixed dementia with AD) using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Ed. Criteria
* Age of 50 years or older
* Medical stability to participate in the trial
* Patient Health Questionnaire score 5-14
* Investigator judgement on whether the participant is comfortable with technology
* Access to WiFi and a smart device for connecting on WebEx and downloading the Fitbit and Muse applications
* Have someone available to be present during all sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unstable medical or psychiatric condition, including substance use based on an investigator opinion
* Visual or hearing impairments that would impair participation
* Patient Health Questionnaire score 15-27 and/or score of 1 or 2 in section E question 1 of the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia
* Any other reason, which will make the study participation intolerable for the participant in the opinion of the study investigator

Sites (1)

• Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada · RECRUITING