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Two-week virtual reality training for dementia: Single case feasibility study.
Daniel McEwen1, Anne Taillon-Hobson, Martin Bilodeau
1Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada;
Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development
|December 2, 2014
Summary
Virtual reality (VR) exercise programs are safe and engaging for persons with dementia (PWD). While well-tolerated, this study found no significant improvements in balance or mobility for PWD.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Persons with dementia (PWD) often exhibit reduced participation and focus in physical activities.
- Virtual reality (VR) presents a novel medium for motor learning, previously explored for cognitive assessment in PWD.
Observation:
- This study investigated the feasibility, safety, and impact of an exercise-based VR training program on balance and mobility in a single participant with dementia.
- The intervention involved daily VR sessions over two weeks, with assessments conducted pre- and post-intervention.
Findings:
- The VR training program was found to be feasible, safe, and enjoyable for the participant with dementia.
- Despite positive tolerability and engagement, objective measures of balance and mobility showed no significant improvement.
Implications:
- VR exercise interventions are well-tolerated and engaging for individuals with dementia, suggesting potential for improving adherence to physical activity.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to explore the efficacy of VR training on motor function in PWD.
