Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

A Virtual Reality at Home Intervention for People Living With Dementia

This study explores how new technology like virtual reality (VR) and tablets might help people living with dementia and their family carers connect more easily. The main goal is to see if using these tools at home can make their conversations better, improve their relationships, and boost their enjoyment of life. Researchers want to compare a full VR experience with a simpler tablet-only approach. They'll record how people with dementia and their carers interact while using these devices, as well as when they're looking at a picture book together. This will help them understand if these technologies can make a real difference in daily communication and overall well-being for families affected by dementia.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Health Network, Toronto

Enrolment target

Start

17 Nov 2022

Estimated completion

01 Apr 2025

Dementia

What is this study about?

Imagine being able to explore new places or revisit old memories from the comfort of your own home, even if getting out and about is difficult. That's what virtual reality (VR) aims to offer. This study wants to see if using VR, or even just a tablet, can help people living with dementia and their family members communicate better and feel more connected. Often, everyday interactions can become challenging with dementia, so finding new ways to share moments and talk is really important.

Researchers know that VR has had good effects on people with dementia in care homes or community groups. But this study is special because it focuses on using these tools at home with family and friends – who are usually the main carers. It aims to understand if these technologies can make a difference in how families interact, by looking closely at their conversations.

Participants will try out different ways of watching 360-degree videos: some will use a VR headset while their carer watches on a linked tablet, and others will watch the same videos together on just a tablet. They'll also have a baseline session looking at a picture book. The study will record these interactions to see if one method works better than the others in helping people with dementia and their carers engage and communicate.

Key takeaways

This study explores using VR and tablets to improve communication in families with dementia.
It focuses on home use, contrasting full VR with tablet-only experiences.
Participation involves using provided tech, weekly video calls, and recording interactions.
The study aims to enhance relationships and quality of life for people with dementia and their carers.
Sessions include watching 360-degree videos on various pleasant topics.
You can withdraw from the study at any point without penalty.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you'll need reliable high-speed internet with Wi-Fi at home. Both the person with dementia and their primary family or friend carer need to be involved.

For the person living with dementia: They need to have a diagnosis of dementia and currently be living at home. However, they can't have had recent seizures, epilepsy, head injuries, strokes, or have a pacemaker. Conditions like certain neck problems or open facial wounds would also mean they can't join. Alcohol-related dementia or having a Public Guardian for decision-making would also rule them out.

For the family or friend carer: They need to be identified as the main carer for the person with dementia, be at least 18 years old, and be able to speak and understand English well. Professional carers are not included, and the carer also needs to be able to understand and agree to take part in the study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Do you have reliable internet and Wi-Fi at home?
Is the person with dementia currently living at home?
Does the person with dementia NOT have a pacemaker, recent seizures, or severe neck issues?
Is the family carer at least 18 years old and able to speak English?
Is the family carer identified as the main, informal carer for the person with dementia?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you and your family member will first be asked to fill out some forms about your health and background. Then, a researcher will visit your home to show you how to use all the equipment provided, including the VR headset, tablet, and a laptop for questionnaires. They'll also explain how to record your study sessions.

For the next four weeks, you'll try out the VR or tablet device. You might start with VR for two weeks and then switch to the tablet for another two, or vice versa. There will be extra training when you switch devices. Once a week, you'll have a video call with a researcher to watch a 20-minute video sequence with different themes (like animals, travel, or sports), followed by a short chat about your experience. You'll also be asked to use the devices on your own at other times and record your interactions. The total study duration is four weeks of intervention, plus initial setup and follow-up.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study might offer a chance to try new technology like VR and tablets, which could potentially improve communication and shared experiences within your family. Some people find virtual reality very engaging and enjoyable. There are generally low risks, but some people might feel a bit dizzy or uncomfortable when first using VR, although this is often temporary. You are free to stop taking part in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual care.

Locations (1)

KITE Research Institute, University Health Network
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada

Common questions

What is the main goal of this study?

The study wants to see if using virtual reality (VR) or a tablet at home can help people with dementia and their family carers communicate better and improve their relationship.

Do I need to have my own VR equipment or tablet?

No, the study will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including the VR headset, tablet, and a laptop.

How long will I need to be involved in the study?

After an initial setup, the main intervention part of the study will last for four weeks, with weekly video calls and at-home use.

What kind of videos will we watch?

You'll watch 360-degree videos on themes like animals, entertainment, travel, and sports, chosen to be engaging and pleasant.

Can I stop participating if I want to?

Yes, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your other medical care.