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Older AdultsNCT06864325

VR Gaming and Its Impact on Functional Status and Quality of Life in Seniors

A study testing VR-training in people with Older Adults, run by The Opole University of Technology at 2 sites in Poland.

Completed

Finished. The study has ended and is not enrolling. Results may be posted on the official record.

Official record
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Trial summary

This project examined the impact of virtual reality (VR)-based physical activity on the functional status and quality of life (QoL) of older residents in a nursing home. It is know that VR-related therapy and activation programs help in a positive attitude toward health and emotions, reduce susceptibility to… Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 60 years and olderHealthy volunteers can take part
Conditions the study is for
Older Adults
What is being tested?
VR-training
Could I receive a placebo?
No, everyone receives an active treatment
How many people
39 participants
Where
2 sitesPoland
Study dates
17 Jul 2024to 30 Sep 2024
Phase
Interventional
Are there results?
None posted in the registry

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 60 years and older
  • All sexes
  • Healthy volunteers accepted
  • Adult, Older adult

Who may be able to join

  • age 60 or older
  • signing an informed consent to participate in the study
  • willingness to participate in the therapy program.

Who cannot join

  • lack of consent
  • contraindications to VR headset using (current temporary conditions: fatigue or exhaustion, drowsiness, nausea, anxiety or stress, cold, flu)
  • chronic conditions (cancer in an intensive treatment phase, inability to exercise, visual or auditory disorders preventing VR goggles use, cognitive disorders that hindered understanding exercise instructions or cooperation with the researcher).
  • Eligibility was determined by a physician who assessed each participant's health condition, and screened for contraindications to a head-mounted display VR use.

Trial locations and contacts

2 sites in 1 country.

Poland2 sites
  • Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Opole University of Technology

    Opole, 45-758

  • Faculty of Production Engineering and Logistics, Opole University of Technology

    Opole, 45-758

Other trials in Poland

About this study

Official title: Assessment of Changes in Functional Status and Quality of Life in Seniors Engaging in Virtual Reality-based Physical Activity: Influence of Diet, Oral Microflora Composition, Blood Morphology, and Anthropometric Parameters

This project examined the impact of virtual reality (VR)-based physical activity on the functional status and quality of life (QoL) of older residents in a nursing home. It is know that VR-related therapy and activation programs help in a positive attitude toward health and emotions, reduce susceptibility to depression and social isolation, and enhance engagement in physical activities. As an atrractive and motivating tools, VR have the potential to promote greater physical activity and overall improvement, including functional status and QoL in older adults. Such findings indicate that incorporating VR into exercise programs for the older adults may enhancements in functional status and QoL compared to traditional, non-VR-based therapy.

The primary goal of this study was to assess changes in functional status and QoL in older participants in VR-based physical activity. The project involves a comprehensive evaluation, including assessments of physical and psychomotor fitness, body composition, key blood morphology parameters, lipid profile, blood glucose levels, oral microbiome composition, and overall well-being. Additionally, psychological factors such as anxiety levels is examined, assuming that these parameters may improve through VR-enhanced physical activity.

The investigators hypothesize that VR-based therapy will leads to significant improvements in psychomotor and functional fitness, exercise tolerance, and overall well-being, thereby enhancing the QoL in older adults. The findings of this research may contribute to the development of innovative programs aimed at supporting elderly individuals in maintaining and improving their functional status-whether during recovery, rehabilitation, or in sustaining optimal physical and mental health.

Read the detailed description

The project involved older adults residing in a nursing home, who are randomly assigned to one of two study groups: the intervention group with participants undergo virtual reality (VR)-based training, and the control group with participants engage in standard activities provided by the nursing home. Our study design assumes that the participants will undergo 2 rounds of testing conducted before therapy to evaluate the subjects' initial condition (T0 testing), and after therapy to assess the effects of the intervention (T1 testing). These assessments will be separated by a four-week period during which the intervention group completes 12 VR-based sessions.

Scope of assessments at T0 and T1 includes:

  1. survey studies - introductory custom questionnaire, questionnaires assessing mental health, quality of life, functional fitness in daily activities, complex activities of daily living, and functional independence; II. psychomotor assessments - tests of eye-hand coordination and attention concentration; III. physical fitness assessment - grip strength measurements, general physical fitness evaluation, analysis of body composition; IV. lifestyle and biological assessments - oral microbiota assessment, laboratory tests including peripheral blood morphology, lipid profile, glucose level and C-reactive protein concentration, and analysis of nutritional habits.

Moreover, participants in the intervention group during VR gaming possess evaluation of parameters indicating intervention effectiveness, and measurement of heart rate, energy expenditure, and oxygen saturation levels.

Conditions
Older Adults
Being tested
VR-training
Keywords
virtual reality, functional statut, quality of life, older adults

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • VR-trainingOther

    Also called VR-gaming

    The VR gaming experience is based on the commercial rhythm game Beat Saber, featuring songs by Queen with varying rhythms and tempos. Players receive visual stimuli in the form of colored square blocks and must slice them in time with the music using the corresponding right or left hand. The blocks must be cut with a lightsaber of the same color. To ensure the safety of older adults, heart rate and energy expenditure were monitored throughout each session, while oxygen saturation was assessed before and after the exercises. Participants playe the game in comfortable conditions: the game loaded directly into the headset and VR glasses synchronized with portable screens to allow monitoring and assistance if needed. Before each session, the headset was adjusted to fit the participant's head dimensions, and corrective glasses were provided if required. The VR setup included a Meta Quest 2 headset with goggles and user-friendly controllers equipped with sensors (Meta Platforms, U.S.).

Study groups in NCT06864325
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
VR groupExperimentalThe VR group underwent a four-week training program, with sessions held three times per week, each lasting 20 minutes. Initially, an introductory session was organized to familiarize the participants with virtual reality. Following this, the structured training program consisted of 12 sessions over the four-week period. All sessions were conducted in a seated position to ensure comfort and safety.
Receives: Other: VR-training
Control groupNo interventionThe control group was a passive group that do not receive any specific intervention, engaging only in the standard daily exercises provided at the nursing home.

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Own survey research

    The study included a custom questionnaire assessing demographic data, physical activity, quality of life, diet, oral prophylaxis, existing diseases, and medications taken, administered before intervention (at the T0). A follow-up questionnaire evaluated participants' impressions of the VR intervention is conducted after intervention (T1).

    Measured: 76 days

  2. Survey research - the levels of anxiety and depression

    At both T0 and T1 time points mental health was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

    Measured: 76 days

  3. Survey research - quality of life

    At both T0 and T1 time points quality of life was measured with the World Health Organization's short Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BRIEF)

    Measured: 76 days

  4. Survey research - functional ability

    At both T0 and T1 time points a functional ability in daily life was assessed through Activities of Daily Living (ADL) according to the Katz Index.

    Measured: 76 days

  5. Survey research - activities of daily living

    At both T0 and T1 time points Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) using the Lawton Scale.

    Measured: 76 days

  6. Survey research - functional independence

    At both T0 and T1 time points a functional independence was measured with the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).

    Measured: 76 days

  7. Psychomotor assessments - tests of eye-hand coordination (EHC) and attention concentration (AC),

    The cross visual motor test using the Piórkowski apparatus (PIOR/ATB 2.0) was used to assess EHC and AC. During the test, the participant was seated comfortably in front of the apparatus with their hands positioned over the buttons. The following test pattern was used: a duration of 90 seconds, with 1-second light intervals and stimulus frequency of 90 stimuli per 90 seconds. On the device's panel, lights were illuminated in random sequences, and the participant had to respond immediately by pressing the corresponding button as quickly and accurately as possible. The device recorded the subject's movements, reaction times and errors for each light stimulus. The test was conducted over three consecutive trials and an average score was calculated for each metric.

    Measured: 76 days

  8. Physical fitness assessment - grip strength measurements

    The test was conducted in a sitting position with the forearm resting on a table and the elbow bent at a 90-degree angle, The participant clenched their hand for 3 seconds; the test was repeated 3 times. The average result was then compared to normative values for muscle strength

    Measured: 76 days

  9. Physical fitness assessment - upper body strength

    The assessment was conducted using a Arm Curl Test - a part of Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. The participant sits on a chair, holding a weight (approximately 2.27 kg for women and 3.63 kg for men) in the dominant hand. The arm was positioned downward alongside the chair, perpendicular to the floor, with the palm facing inward. Upon the "start" signal, the participant bends the elbow, lifting the weight toward the shoulder, and then returns to the starting position. The total number of correctly performed repetitions within 30 seconds was recorded.

    Measured: 76 days

  10. Physical fitness assessment - shoulder flexibility

    The assessment was conducted using a Back Scratch Test - a part of the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. Performed in a standing position. The participant attempted to touch the middle fingers of both hands behind the back using a 30 cm ruler. One arm was positioned over the shoulder, reaching down the middle of the back with the elbow pointing outward, while the other arm reaches up from below. The distance between the fingertips was measured to assess flexibility.

    Measured: 76 days

  11. Physical fitness assessment - lower body strength

    The assessment was conducted using Chair Stand Test - a part of the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. The participant sited on a chair with arms crossed over the chest. Upon the "start" signal, they stand up fully and then sit back down. The number of complete stands performed within 30 seconds was recorded.

    Measured: 76 days

  12. Physical fitness assessment - lower body flexibility

    The assessment was conducted using Chair Sit-and-Reach Test - a part of the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. While sitting on the edge of a chair, the participant extended one leg straight forward with the heel resting on the floor. Keeping the back straight and arms extended toward the toes, they lean forward as far as possible, attempting to reach their toes. The distance between the fingertips and toes was measured to assess lower body flexibility.

    Measured: 76 days

  13. Physical fitness assessment - speed, agility, and balance

    The assessment was conducted using 8-Foot Up-and-Go Test - a part of the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. The participant started seated in a chair. Upon the "start" signal, they stand up, walk as quickly as possible to a marker placed 2.44 meters (8 feet) away, turn around, return to the chair, and sit down. The time taken to complete the task was recorded, assessing agility and dynamic balance.

    Measured: 76 days

  14. Physical fitness assessment - aerobic endurance

    The assessment was conducted using 2-Minute Step Test - a part of the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. The participant marched in place for two minutes, lifting their knees to a height midway between the kneecap and hip. The number of times the right knee was raised is counted, providing an estimate of aerobic endurance.

    Measured: 76 days

  15. Lifestyle and biological assessments - oral microbiota

    For assess oral microbiota, the oral swabs were collected by qualified medical personnel. Biochemical identification of bacterial species present in the oral cavity, including Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Leptotrichia buccalis, and Propionibacterium ssp., were conducted using API biochemical strip tests.

    Measured: 76 days

  16. Lifestyle and biological assessments - laboratory tests

    The laboratory tests included blood morphology and biochemical analysis (lipid profile, glucose level and C-reactive protein concentration). The assessment were conducted using standard analyses in the diagnostic laboratory.

    Measured: 76 days

  17. Lifestyle and biological assessments - adherence to healthy eating principles

    The adherence to healthy eating principles was performed via nursing home menus evaluation and using the Healthy Diet Index (HDI). HDI was expressed in point scale.

    Measured: 76 days

  18. Lifestyle and biological assessments - compliance with dietary recommendations

    The compliance with dietary recommendations was performed via nursing home menus evaluation and using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI). HEI was expressed in point scale.

    Measured: 76 days

  19. Lifestyle and biological assessments - quantitative diet analysis

    A quantitative diet evaluation determined nutrient content, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The analysis was performed via nursing home menus evaluation. The diet was assessed according to nutritional standards for the older adults.

    Measured: 76 days

  20. Lifestyle and biological assessments - qualitative diet assessment

    A qualitative assessment was performed via nursing menus evaluation analysis and using Food Quality Index (DQI), Starzyńska-Bielińska test, Szewczyński's classification, and Block's questionnaire. The results were expressed in point scales.

    Measured: 76 days

  21. Anthropometric data - height

    Height was measured using a heightmeter in centimeters.

    Measured: 76 days

  22. Anthropometric data - weight

    Weight was carried out using the InBody 120 analyzer. Body weight was measured in kg.

    Measured: 76 days

  23. Anthropometric data - body mass index

    Weight and height were combined to report body mass index (BMI). BMI was expressed in kg/m^2

    Measured: 76 days

  24. Physical fitness assessment - body composition analysis

    Body composition was carried out using the InBody 120 analyzer, which utilizes bioelectrical impedance analysis. This method enables an objective evaluation of muscle mass, body fat percentage, body mass index, stored energy, and water content in the body.

    Measured: 76 days

  25. Anthropometric data - body circumferences

    Waist and hip circumference were measured using an electronic measuring tape in centimeters.

    Measured: 76 days

  26. Anthropometric data - skinfold thickness

    Skinfold thickness was measured using a professional caliper.

    Measured: 76 days

Secondary outcomes (3)
  1. Heart ratio

    To ensure the safety of older adults, heart ratio was monitored throughout each session of VR-based training. Data were collected using fitness trackers, specifically the Fitbit Charge 6, known for its accuracy in data collection during moderate physical activity.

    Measured: 76 days

  2. Energy expenditure

    To ensure the safety of older adults, energy expenditure was monitored throughout each session of VR-based training. Data were collected using fitness trackers, specifically the Fitbit Charge 6, known for its accuracy in data collection during moderate physical activity.

    Measured: 76 days

  3. Saturation

    To ensure the safety of the elderly, saturation was monitored during each VR-based training session. Data were collected using a fingertip pulse oximeter

    Measured: 76 days

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted7 Mar 2025
  2. Study start17 Jul 2024
  3. Primary completion30 Sep 2024
  4. Study completion30 Sep 2024

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Interventional
Phase
Phase N/A
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomised
Intervention model
Parallel groups
Model description
Parallel Assignment
Masking
None (open label)
Enrolment
39 participants (actual)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT06864325
Sponsor's protocol ID
OpoleUofTech5
Status last verified
Feb 2025
First submitted
24 Feb 2025
Last updated
7 Mar 2025
Results posted
No
Data monitoring committee
No
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
Yes: It was decided to provide free access to the analysed data. The data will be available upon request sent to PI: z.grzywacz@po.edu.pl

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

A study testing VR-training in people with Older Adults, run by The Opole University of Technology at 2 sites in Poland.

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 3 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 7 Mar 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 2 sites in Poland. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Own survey research (time frame: 76 days). The study lists 26 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 7 Mar 2025.

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