Effects of Immersive Virtual Reality and Multicomponent Physical Exercise on Cognitive and Functional Performance in Hospitalized Older Patients With Severe Functional Dependency: A Randomized Clinical Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how immersive virtual reality (IVR) combined with specific physical exercises might help hospitalized older adults who have severe difficulties with daily activities. This study takes place in a Spanish tertiary hospital and focuses on patients over 75 years old with severe functional dependency upon admission. The goal is to see if these innovative interventions can improve cognitive and physical functions, mood, quality of life, and muscle strength during their hospital stay. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: a control group receiving usual care, an IVR group watching 3D videos of Spanish landscapes, a multicomponent exercise (ME) group performing tailored upper and lower body exercises, or a combined IVR + ME group receiving both interventions. The study is conducted in the Acute Geriatric Unit and includes patients who are medically stable and able to communicate and cooperate. Interventions aim to stimulate cognition and physical function through immersive technology and exercise. During the study, participants will undergo various assessments such as cognitive tests including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), strength and mobility evaluations, mood and delirium assessments, and quality of life questionnaires. These evaluations occur at baseline, during hospitalization, at discharge, and one month after discharge. The study will also monitor acceptance of the IVR technology and the length of hospital stay, aiming to improve care and well-being for older adults with severe functional dependency.

Immersive Virtual Reality and Physical Exercise on Cognitive and Functional Performance in Hospitalized Older Patients