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Updated: Jan 8, 2026
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A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills
Published on: February 13, 2020
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Technology and Dementia Preconference
Raheleh Saryazdi1,2, Lou-Anne Carsault3, Julie Bannon4
1Trent University Durham, Oshawa, ON, Canada.
Alzheimer'S & Dementia : the Journal of the Alzheimer'S Association
|December 23, 2025
Summary
Virtual Reality (VR) therapy at home improved communication between persons living with dementia (PLwD) and their caregivers more than tablet-only use. The study highlights VR
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Aging Research
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Dementia Care Technology
Background:
- Virtual Reality (VR) therapies show promise for improving well-being in persons living with dementia (PLwD).
- Existing VR research for PLwD is primarily in institutional settings, with limited focus on at-home use and family caregiver interaction.
- This study addresses the gap by evaluating VR for enhancing PLwD and family caregiver communication in a home environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of an at-home VR intervention (VRx@Home) in facilitating communication between PLwD and family caregivers.
- To compare the effectiveness of VR technology against traditional tablet-based technology for improving communication.
- To explore user preferences and gather feedback on technology adoption for in-home dementia care.
Main Methods:
- Families participated in an at-home training and baseline data collection.
- Intervention involved 2 weeks of either VR (with paired tablet) or tablet-only use, with weekly remote researcher sessions and independent use.
- Data collected included communication measures, technology preferences, and general feedback via semi-structured interviews.
Main Results:
- Preliminary results indicate both VR and tablet interventions improved communication (frequency, engagement, duration) compared to baseline.
- VR demonstrated a greater extent of communication improvement than the tablet-only condition.
- Entertainment and animal themes were favored; user preferences for VR versus tablet varied, emphasizing the need for options.
Conclusions:
- VR therapy is feasible for at-home implementation and can significantly enhance communication between PLwD and caregivers.
- User preferences for technology (VR vs. tablet) are variable, underscoring the importance of offering choices for sustained at-home adoption.
- Future research should consider personalized technology options to maximize engagement and therapeutic benefits for PLwD and their families.
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