Virtual Reality Meditation for Stress

Recruiting at 1 trial location

Overseen By Karin Cinalioglu

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Lady Davis Institute

Must not be taking: Psychoactive medications

Disqualifiers: Epilepsy, Schizophrenia, Brain tumor, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 8

Duration: 4 weeks

30 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

Virtual reality (VR) allows users to interact within a simulated environment using electronic devices such as a VR headset or goggles. Multiple studies with younger adults have demonstrated that VR meditation can be an important tool in reducing stress, however, this has not been studied in older adults. In this study, the investigators aim to assess the effects of a 4-week program of 15-minutes sessions, twice per week of meditation delivered through VR with the aim of evaluating its impact on stress in older adults.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for older adults over 60 living in the Greater Montreal area who feel stressed, as indicated by a Perceived Stress Score (PSS) of 10 or higher. Participants must be able to speak English or French.

Inclusion Criteria

Perceived Stress Score (PSS)equal or greater than 10

I am 60 years old or older.

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants receive a 4-week program of 15-minute VR meditation sessions, twice per week

4 weeks

8 sessions (in-person or virtual)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for changes in stress, anxiety, loneliness, mindfulness, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life

4 weeks

Post-intervention assessment

Treatment Details

Interventions

• VR Meditation

Trial Overview The study tests if VR meditation can help reduce stress in older adults. It involves a 4-week program with two sessions per week, each lasting 15 minutes, using VR technology.

Participant Groups

Group I: Intervention: Virtual Reality Mindfulness Group Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

The intervention will be 4-weeks, twice per week, 15-minute/session VR-mindfulness intervention group.

Group II: No intervention: Waitlist Control Group Active Control 1 Intervention

These participants will be on a waitlist to receive the VR guided meditation program after data collection has been completed (after the 4 weeks)

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Lady Davis Institute

Lead Sponsor

Trials

50

Recruited

6,600+