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Nature-based Virtual Reality for Depression in Alzheimer's Disease: Protocol of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Gerontology
|July 2, 2026
Summary
This pilot study explores in-home nature virtual reality (VR) for Alzheimer
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Cognitive Science
- Digital Health and Immersive Technologies
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a leading cause of dementia, often accompanied by depression.
- Current pharmacological treatments for depression in AD have limited efficacy.
- There is a need for accessible, in-home non-pharmacological interventions for depression in AD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of an in-home nature virtual reality (N-VR) intervention for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and depression (AD-D).
- To compare N-VR with an active control of nature-based videos in an AD-D population.
- To evaluate tolerability, feasibility, and acceptability of remote VR interventions.
Main Methods:
- A pilot, parallel-group, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial involving 50 participants with AD-D.
- Participants were randomized (1:1) to receive 4 weeks of 15-minute N-VR sessions or nature-based videos twice weekly.
- Assessments of feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability were conducted remotely.
Main Results:
- The study is designed to compare feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability measures between the N-VR and control groups.
- Preliminary clinical outcomes will be analyzed using intention-to-treat principles.
- Qualitative data from focus groups will undergo thematic analysis.
Conclusions:
- This study has the potential to establish the feasibility of remote VR interventions for individuals with AD-D.
- Successful outcomes could pave the way for novel, accessible treatments for depression in Alzheimer's disease.
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