Proposed Topic (Most preferred): :
Clinical Safety and Quality Service III (Projects aiming at quality service to patients and their carers)
Authors (including presenting author) :
Yuen KL(1), Chan YKJ(1), Lam YF(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Medicine, PYNEH
Introduction :
As the aging population presents the challenges for HA, we strive to improve the quality of care and enhance the well-being of elderly patients. It is essential to explore innovative approaches so, a new Virtual Reality (VR) device was piloted to act as a novel therapeutic tool in Geriatric Day Hospital (GDH) in PYNEH.
Objectives :
The objective of implementing Virtual Reality (VR) stimulation in GDH is to enhance the quality of care and improve the well-being of elderly patients. VR offers unique and immersive experience that can address various therapeutic needs and provides specific benefits in the geriatric care setting, offering potential benefits in cognitive engagement, emotional well-being and rehabilitation.
Methodology :
In the pilot study conducted with 15 participants in GDH, the impact of VR stimulation on rehabilitation outcomes, specifically related to dementia, was assessed. A nurse provided VR stimulation sessions for the 15 patients with dementia at stage 4 (Moderate Cognitive Decline) of Global Deterioration Scale. The study specifically focused on measuring the impact of VR on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the WHO-5 Wellbeing Index.
Result & Outcome :
The mean MoCA score increased from 12.1 to 15.3, indicating a positive impact on cognitive function. Participants also expressed high satisfaction with the VR device. These findings supported the feasibility and effectiveness of VR stimulation in enhancing cognitive rehabilitation and overall well-being in elderly patients with dementia. Further research and development of tailored VR programs can build upon these positive outcomes to enhance geriatric care in the future. RESULTS:
The evaluation of the pilot study involving the VR stimulation in GDH revealed a slight improvement in cognitive function, as measured by the MoCA, among the patients with dementia. The mean MoCA score increased from 12.1 at the beginning of the study to 15.3 after the VR stimulation sessions. This improvement of 3.2 points suggested a positive impact on cognitive function on these patients. Additionally, 87% of participants expressed a high level of satisfaction with the VR device, as indicated by the WHO-5 Wellbeing Index. These findings supported the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing VR stimulation for cognitive rehabilitation in elderly patients with dementia, highlighting the potential benefits of VR technology in improving cognitive function and overall well-being in this population.
