Training Caregivers to Provide Virtual Reality Intervention for Adults With Severe Intellectual and Developmental Disability

Abstract

Background. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are in need of effective physical fitness training programs, leisure time opportunities, and strategies to improve their participation in daily life activities.1 Purpose. This study sought to present an educational program that enabled the implementation of a virtual reality (VR) program operated by in-house caregivers for adults at a severe level of IDD. Methods. During the initial stages of this series of studies, 2 groups of participants underwent a video-capture, VR-based, game-like, exercise program. The first study group (N = 33; mean age = 28.1 ± 5.3 years; moderate IDD) was trained by an experienced occupational therapist, and the second study group (N = 30; mean age = 52.3 ± 5.8 years; moderate IDD) was trained by occupational therapy students. Changes in physical fitness were monitored for all participants in comparison to matched control groups. A third study group (N = 20; mean age = 48.1 ± 8.6 years; severe IDD) was trained by in-house caregiver staff. An educational program including gathering appropriate caregivers, presenting theoretical background for the program, as well as providing on going technical support was implemented. Results. The strategy used to enable the implementation of a VR program by in-house caregivers was shown to be feasible. The VR intervention program promoted activity and was motivating to and enjoyable by all participants with mild to moderate IDD and to most individuals with severe IDD. Significant (P < .05) improvements in physical fitness were demonstrated for all research groups in comparison to the matched control groups, supporting the effectiveness of this educational program. Conclusion. VR technology was found as fully effective tool to engage adults with mild to moderate IDD, and some with severe levels of IDD, in a variety of activities by caregivers from different educational backgrounds and professions.