Exploring the Immediate and Long-Term Effects of Immersive Virtual Reality on Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia and Caregiver Burden: Longitudinal Observational Study

A 1-month immersive VR reminiscence intervention appears to improve neuropsychiatric symptoms and temporarily reduce caregiver burden in people with dementia, with some symptom improvements lasting up to 2 months. These findings suggest that VR may offer a meaningful therapeutic option in day care settings. Future studies with control groups, including nonimmersive 2D conditions, and comparisons to traditional reminiscence therapy are needed to validate and expand upon these findings.