A study evaluated a nurse-led immersive virtual reality program aimed at improving mental health outcomes for older adults with physical disabilities in residential care homes. This randomized controlled trial involved 265 participants who were divided into an intervention group, receiving a 12-session virtual reality program, and a control group, continuing standard care. The program featured natural scenes, tourism, and reminiscence activities. Assessments were conducted before and six weeks after the intervention, focusing on mental well-being, depressive symptoms, loneliness, health-related quality of life, and perceived social support.

Results showed significant improvements in mental well-being, depressive symptoms, and perceived social support within the intervention group. Health-related quality of life also improved significantly compared to the control group after the intervention. Although the immersive virtual reality program enhanced the quality of life and mental health for participants, some contamination may have affected the results. The study highlights the need for culturally adapted content for such interventions and suggests further research into long-term effects and cost-effectiveness is necessary.