Evaluation of Computerized Vi Rtual Reality on Functional Ability and Quality of Life in Elderly

The prevention strategies for dementia are needed because of the increasing prevalence of dementia. People with mild cognitive impairment are high risk of developing disability, even conversion into dementia in later life. Cognitive /memory training programs have shown the potential positive effects for improving or maintaining the cognitive progression. However, the impact of those cognitive progressions on functional ability and quality of life is not well understood. The major aim of this total project is to evaluate the short and long term effects of computerized virtual reality training programs (Xavix Hot-Plus ) on functional ability (cognition, physical and psychosocial function) and quality of life in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. It will be the 4-year study. The experimental research design with three groups, one pretest and four posttests will be conducted to examine the short-term and long-term effects on cognition (primary outcome), physical (secondary outcome), and psychosocial function (secondary outcome) and quality of life (secondary outcome). Independent adults will be recruited from day care center base on sample criteria. The total subjects will be 160 to 190 older adults and the day care centers include all eligible participants will be randomly assigned into computerized virtual reality training programs group (Hot-Plus group) or social interaction group. The subjects for control group will be recruited in the community and be referred by neurological, psychiatric, or gerontological physicians. Participants who are in Hot-Plus group will divide several small group which will be 4 persons with mild cognitive impairment, they will receive computerized virtual reality training program by Hot-Plus as a group activity one hour, once a week for 12 weeks. The participants in the social interaction group will come as a group for social interaction one hour weekly for 12 weeks. The control group will maintain their regular activities. The results will be expected to understand the effectiveness of the computerized virtual reality training, improving or maintaining cognition, physical and psychosocial function, enhancing quality of life and reducing the risk of developing disability even conversion into dementia in later life.