RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06732128

Nature-based Virtual Reality Intervention for Depression in Alzheimer's Disease

Nature-based Virtual Reality Intervention for Depression in Alzheimer's Disease: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial


Sponsor

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

Enrollment

50 participants

Start Date

Jan 6, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Summary

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), such as depression affect up to 90% patients with dementia. Non-pharmacological treatment of BPSD, can be difficult to access, require caregiver support, travel, and often have long waiting lists. Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative, portable, immersive, and accessible technology which can be used in-home. More information is required on the feasibility of using VR in-home with older adults with dementia. Our study will offer a 4-week program of 15-minutes sessions, twice per week nature-based VR program for BPSD delivered in-home by virtual reality (VR). Additionally, caregivers will have the option of taking part in the study and provide feedback regarding the VR intervention. If successful, this project has the potential to prolong aging in place for individuals with BPSD, as BPSD is a significant factor in institutionalization.


Eligibility

Min Age: 50 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is testing a nature-based virtual reality (VR) program as a way to reduce depression in people living with mild to early-moderate Alzheimer's disease. Participants use a VR headset to experience calming natural environments, and researchers will see whether this lifts mood and improves wellbeing. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 50 or older - You have a diagnosis of mild to early-moderate Alzheimer's disease (including mixed dementia with an Alzheimer's component) - You have mild to moderate depression symptoms (scoring 5–14 on a standard questionnaire) - You are medically stable - You have access to WiFi and a smart device - Someone is available to be present with you during all sessions **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have severe depression (scoring 15 or above) - You have unstable medical or psychiatric conditions - You have vision or hearing problems that would prevent you from using the VR system Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

OTHERnature-based virtual reality applications and videos

Participants will receive nature-based applications available on the Oculus platform, as well as nature-based 360 videos with the same content as the control group however in a 360 format.

OTHERnature-based videos

Participants will receive YouTube links to watch nature-based videos on a device (e.g., a tablet).


Locations(1)

Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH)

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

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NCT06732128


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