Virtual Reality for Mental Well-being in Older People With Physical Disabilities

Objectives This study aims to examine the effects of the therapeutic virtual reality (VR) experience in older people with physical disabilities in long-term care facilities (LTCF) in 1) increasing mental well-being, 2) reducing depressive symptoms, 3) reducing loneliness, 4) increasing health-related quality of life, and 5) increasing perceived social support. If this intervention is successful, this study will yield new knowledge about the effects of this innovative intervention. Also, an innovative VR intervention will be available to promote the mental well-being of older residents in LTCF. Trial design This study employs a single-blinded, two-parallel-group (intervention-to-control group ratio=1:1), non-inferiority, randomized controlled trial. Study setting This study will be conducted in the LTCF. Participants will be recruited from Care \& Attention Homes for the Elderly and Nursing Homes under the governance of the Social Welfare Department in Hong Kong. Eligibility criteria Inclusion: 1) Aged 60 years or above; 2) LTCF residents; and 3) Physical disability, defined as the Modified Barthel Index (MBI) score of ≤ 90 (i.e., moderately dependent or worse). Exclusion: 1) Probably dementia, as defined by a Montreal Cognitive Assessment score of \< 20, 2) Severe visual impairment, as defined by a lens-corrected visual acuity score of \< 6/60, 3) Severe hearing impairment, as defined by failed whispered voice test, 4) Bilateral upper limb paralysis, as defined by the Medical Research Council Muscle Power Scale of \< 4, or 5) Participated in any VR activities in the past six months or concurrently. Consent All participants will be asked to give their written informed consent to participate in the proposed study. Groups Participants allocated to the intervention group will participate in the 6-week VR experience programme. Participants allocated to the control will receive the usual care provided by the LTCF, such as personal care, regular basic medical and nurs