Culturally Familiar Nostalgic VR Cognitive Training for Older Adults

This randomized controlled trial investigates the effects of a nostalgia-based cognitive training intervention delivered via Virtual Reality (VR) on emotional well-being and cognitive functioning among community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) in northern Taiwan, specifically targeting those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia. The study, conducted at National Taiwan Normal University, aims to assess whether engaging older adults in nostalgic VR experiences can enhance nostalgia proneness, life satisfaction, and psychological well-being, while also reducing depressive symptoms and improving cognitive functions. Participants who meet inclusion criteria (aged 65+, capable of communicating in Mandarin or Taiwanese, without severe psychiatric conditions, with sufficient vision/hearing) will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group receiving the "Brain Health Nostalgic VR Program" or a control group engaged in routine weekly activities. Each session, scheduled twice weekly, spans 25-35 minutes in total, including setup, support, and breaks, while the actual VR usage time is 15-25 minutes depending on individual tolerance. Research staff will provide close support and safety monitoring during all sessions. Pre- and post-intervention outcomes will be measured using standardized assessments: Southampton Nostalgia Scale (SNS), Short-Form Life Satisfaction Index (LSI-SF), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), Short-Form Chinese version of Ryff's Psychological Well-being Scale (PWB-18), and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Taiwan Version (MoCA-T). The study emphasizes participant safety and data confidentiality throughout its duration. Findings aim to demonstrate VR's potential as a non-invasive, preventive strategy for cognitive decline and mental health enhancement among older populations.

NCT Number	NCT06973551
Lead Sponsor	National Taiwan Normal University
Conditions	Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Dementia, Cognitive Decline, Psychological Well-being
Enrollment	64 participants
Start Date	2025-04-29
Primary Completion	2026-02-10 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-03-30 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-04-21