A Virtual Reality Intervention to Reduce Dementia-Related Agitation Using Single-Case Design

The primary objective of this study was to use a single-case design to evaluate the utility of a VR intervention to reduce agitation behaviors in two female participants with a diagnosis of dementia.

A single-case research design with an ideographic approach was selected given the novelty of this intervention. A blended single case experimental design was used combining the Multiple-baseline design across individuals with a reversal design to examine the effects of VR nature scenes on agitation. Visual analysis was used to determine changes in mean, level, and latency of the behaviors.

For both participants, a significant decrease in their respective agitation behaviors was observed during intervention phases.

This study provides preliminary evidence of the utility of VR as a brief and effective intervention to decrease agitation in individuals with dementia.

These initial, promising results may help caregivers improve the quality of life for dementia patients. Further, the brevity of the intervention makes this a practical tool for care providers working in clinical settings. The primary objective of this study was to use a single-case design to evaluate the utility of a VR intervention to reduce agitation behaviors in two female participants with a diagnosis of dementia.