Assessing the Feasibility and Efficacy of Virtual Reality Navigational Training for Older Adults

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study evaluates the feasibility of virtual reality (VR) wayfinding training with aging adults and assesses the impact of the training on wayfinding performance. Research Design and Methods: 49 participants were recruited using a convenience sample approach. Wayfinding tasks were conducted by 3 participant groups: active VR training, passive video training, and no training, assigned randomly. The training featured 5 tasks in a digital version of a real building. Post-training assessments used 10 tasks in this same building, half of the tasks familiar from the training and half new. The study was double-blinded, with each intervention lasting 10 min. The primary outcomes include the Distance Traveled and Duration for each wayfinding task, with a fixed 10-min limit. Results: Participants in the VR group reported moderate usability and a high sense of Self Location in the environment with respect to the training intervention. No significant differences were found in performance for the first group of similar wayfinding tasks; however, in the subsequent set of new tasks the VR group significantly outperformed the Control group. This suggests a possible spatial learning effect across multiple exposures (VR training followed by similar task). No adverse effects were reported during or post intervention. Discussion and Implications: This study provides preliminary evidence that VR training can help to improve wayfinding performance in older adults with no reported adverse effects.