Influence of 'virtual tourism' multisensory stimulation therapy on older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A mixed-methods study.

BACKGROUND

Interventions for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can delay cognitive decline. Sensory deprivation is a risk factor for the development of dementia. Providing multisensory stimulation (MSS) based on 'virtual tourism', a dynamic presentation of natural tourist landscapes to visitors through internet technology that allows them to experience immersive travel experiences without leaving their homes, may constitute an effective management strategy.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a 'virtual tourism' MSS intervention for older adults with MCI using a mixed-methods design to assess attitudes and perceived benefits.

METHODS

Sixty-six older adults with MCI were randomized to either the experimental group receiving 'virtual tourism' MSS for 8 weeks or the waitlist control group. Cognitive function, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs), quality of life, and sleep were assessed using scales at baseline and at 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Semistructured interviews were conducted at 8 weeks.

RESULTS

The attrition and activity attendance rates were 6.06% and 81.25%, respectively. According to the questionnaire results, cognitive function, NPSs, quality of life and sleep significantly improved in the intervention group and continued to improve for up to 16 weeks. Many respondents said that their participation improved their cognition, mood, sleep, physical fitness, and social support and provided suggestions for content enrichment and technological updates.

CONCLUSIONS

'Virtual tourism' MSS is effective for older adults with MCI. Eight weeks of MSS can effectively improve cognitive function, NPSs, quality of life and sleep for >16 weeks. These results contribute to the development of novel strategies to slow cognitive decline.