A Virtual Reality Intervention to Reduce Dementia-Related Agitation Using Single-Case Design

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

The primary objective of this study was to use a single-case design to evaluate the utility of a VR intervention to reduce agitation behaviors in two female participants with a diagnosis of dementia.

Methods

A single-case research design with an ideographic approach was selected given the novelty of this intervention. A blended single case experimental design was used combining the Multiple-baseline design across individuals with a reversal design to examine the effects of VR nature scenes on agitation. Visual analysis was used to determine changes in mean, level, and latency of the behaviors.

Results

For both participants, a significant decrease in their respective agitation behaviors was observed during intervention phases.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence of the utility of VR as a brief and effective intervention to decrease agitation in individuals with dementia.

Clinical Implications

These initial, promising results may help caregivers improve the quality of life for dementia patients. Further, the brevity of the intervention makes this a practical tool for care providers working in clinical settings. The primary objective of this study was to use a single-case design to evaluate the utility of a VR intervention to reduce agitation behaviors in two female participants with a diagnosis of dementia.

KEYWORDS:

• Dementia
• older adults
• nonpharmacological
• virtual reality

Clinical implications

• The current study highlights the potential clinical utility of VR to inform antecedent interventions for challenging behaviors associated with dementia in LTC facilities. Further, the brevity of the intervention makes this a practical tool for use in clinical settings.

• Reducing these behaviors can lead to enhanced positive interaction (or decreased aversive interactions) between residents and staff and provide staff with time to attend to other needs of residents or other work-related duties.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the contributions of the research team in data collection, including Rebecca E. Ingram, Jenny Lagervall, Madeline Lag, Adrienne Bohlen, and Katie Granier.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.