Exploring the Feasibility and Clinical Utility of a Fully Immersive Virtual Reality Shopping Tool for Training Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs): A Pilot Study

This study is testing a custom made, fully immersive Virtual Reality (VR) shopping application called ShopWell VR. The program is designed to support everyday skills like those used in supermarket grocery shopping, such as finding items, moving through aisles, and keeping track of a budget. Taking part may help support everyday functioning, build confidence, and encourage participation in meaningful daily activities. 

Participation involves a 4‑week program, with two 30‑minute VR shopping sessions each week. The activities will be tailored to participant’s abilities and gradually adjusted over time. 

People who meet the following criteria may be eligible to take part:

• Are 65 years or older, and experience some difficulties with memory or thinking but do not have a diagnosis of dementia; OR
• Are 65 years or older, have intact cognition and are independently functioning (healthy control participants) 

Participants will also complete two assessment sessions, before the first VR session and after the last VR session. In addition, participants will be invited to complete a short questionnaire and take part in two interviews, approximately 30 minutes each, to share their experiences using the VR system.
Sessions will take place at the University of Sydney Camperdown campus or, where space permits, in the participant’s home.