Using Virtual Reality for Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment
Author Information
Author(s): Preston A’mie, Padala Kalpana, Mooney Scott, Parkes Christopher, Gauss C Heath, Padala Prasad
Primary Institution: Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System
Hypothesis
This research study aims to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and perception of technology for using immersive virtual reality in older adults with cognitive impairment.
Conclusion
Older adults can experience minimal symptoms during immersive virtual reality use and may report high enjoyability.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported enjoyment of the iVR device with a mean score of 111.7.
- Perception of iVR significantly changed after use.
- Participants tolerated the iVR experience well with an average score of 1.1 on the Simulation Sickness Questionnaire.
- No significant effect of neuropsychiatric symptoms on immersion in the iVR experience was found.
Takeaway
This study shows that older adults can enjoy using virtual reality without feeling sick, and it might help them feel better about using technology.
Methodology
Participants and their caregivers were assessed on mood, quality of life, cognitive functioning, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and perception of the iVR device while using a head-mounted iVR device.
Limitations
Significant gaps remain in the literature for this population.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 36.7% Black and 63.3% White older adults.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0001
Statistical Significance
p=0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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