VRx@Home Pilot: Can Virtual Reality Therapy Improve Quality of Life for People with Dementia Living at Home?

Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly considered a valuable therapeutic intervention for people with dementia (PwD). However, it has not yet been widely implemented or rigorously evaluated for use in private residences, where it has potential for significant impact on quality of life for both PwD and their family caregivers. This paper describes results from the VRx@Home Pilot study, which is among the first to explore the potential benefits of immersive VR experiences delivered through a head-mounted display when compared to a standard two-dimensional display (handheld tablet). This was a prospective mixed methods study involving seven PwD-caregiver dyads (n=14) who took part in a four-week home-based intervention (two weeks VR, two weeks Tablet-Only). We evaluated the feasibility, usability, and impact of 360-degree videos on the quality of life of PwD and their caregivers. These outcomes were assessed through in-app metrics, questionnaires, observations, and interviews conducted at a) baseline, b) after each phase of the intervention, and c) at the end of the study. Results revealed that the VR and Tablet-Only conditions were comparable in terms of ease-of-use, session length, and frequency. Both conditions appeared to positively affect in-the-moment mood and quality of life of PwD and their caregivers. Improvements to VR-content, system navigation, and evaluation measures were identified as factors that will increase the likelihood of VR-therapy being adopted in the home setting by PwD and their caregivers.