Developing a Virtual Reality for People With Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment Based on Their Psychological Needs: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

BackgroundPurpose of this study was to develop a virtual reality (VR) intervention program based on the psychological needs of patients with dementia and mild cognitive impairment residing in nursing facilities in Korea to relieve their behavioral and psychological symptoms, and to confirm the possibility of utilizing VR in patients with dementia and mild cognitive impairment.MethodsIn the first phase, surveys and questionnaires were used to identify activities that relieved the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) among patients. These activities were classified into five types of psychological needs. In the second phase, a fully immersive, interactive, easy-to-use VR platform was developed that reflected these psychological needs. The VR content was used with patients with dementia and mild cognitive impairment. The researchers assessed the level of the participants’ immersion, preference, and interaction with the VR, using a 5-point Likert scale. ResultsIn the feasibility test, the mean immersion score was 4.93 ± 0.16 points, the mean preference score was 4.35 ± 0.41 points, and the mean interaction score was 3.84 ± 0.43 points. Six out of 10 participants required assistance while using the VR. The mean VR experience duration was 10.00 ± 3.46 minutes.ConclusionsThe VR-based intervention program that was developed to reduce BPSD was feasible for the participants, and provided them with a high degree of satisfaction and immersion. Furthermore, this study also confirmed the convenience and safety of the program. These findings provide evidence for the potential of VR to provide BPSD intervention programs for patients with dementia and mild cognitive impairment, and potentially for other geriatric conditions.