Evaluation of a virtual travel therapy device in long-term care facilities: A clinical survey in real-life conditions.

Abstract

Virtual travel therapy (VTT) devices have yielded encouraging results as a non-drug therapy for improving behavioral disorders in patients with Alzheimer's disease or related conditions. However, no data are available concerning the real-life use of these VTT devices in long-term care facilities (LTCF) and their efficacy in this population. We conducted a survey of all LTCF equipped with VTT devices. A questionnaire was designed and dedicated on the characteristics of the LTCF. A part focused on the last 10 residents to have made use of the VTT device. Efficacy was assessed with the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAS), the QUALIDEM quality-of-life score and a subjective assessment before and after the session. Fifteen LTCF responded (62%). Six LTCF provided data for 35 residents using the VTT device. The subjective evaluation and the HAS and QUALIDEM scores revealed a positive effect of the VTT device. This is the first multicentre study to present subjective and objective data demonstrating the efficacy of VTT devices in LTCF residents suffering from Alzheimer's disease and related disorders and presenting behavioral disorders. This device was appreciated by the various health professionals working in these LTCF, who were able to use it routinely, confirming its value in this population.