The current study aims to explore the feasibility of a nature-based VR systems for improving distress and negative affect symptoms typically reported by older adults. Specifically, the current study aims to assess whether there are age-related differences between older and younger adults before and after a single session of VR nature-based experience. Self-reported measures of distress, positive and negative affect, state anxiety, digital self-efficacy, motivation toward physical activity/leisure time, and self-reported relaxation levels will be measured. Additionally, this study will also focus on some usability-based measures as cybersickness levels, presence, and usability of the VR system, and other accessibility measures regarding the amount of time, resources and number of adaptations needed to train both groups through the different stages of the VR intervention.
Who is Eligible to Participate?
You can volunteer for this study if you:
- Are an adult between 18 and 40 years old OR between 60-90 years old
- Have self-reported anxiety, low mood and stress symptoms
What is Involved?
Your participation will involve a 10-minute pre-screening for eligibility. If eligible, we will schedule 2 meetings at a location of your convenience. The first, a baseline questionnaire. The second, a pre-aseement questionnnaire follwed by the VR intervention and a post-assesment.
Study Title: Nature Exposure Through Virtual Reality (NET-VR): in older adults and young adult students.
Is Compensation Available?
No monetary compensation is avalible.
PI: Rocio Chang, M.A., Psy.D.
IRB #: 23x-022-1