# Enhancing Cognitive Functions in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment via Virtual Sail 3D: Protocol for a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial

**Authors:** Federica Sancassiani, Alessandra Perra, Veronica Vacca, Roberta Montisci, Mariarita Monni, Stefano Lorrai, Giulia Cossu, Donatella Rita Petretto, Lorenzo di Natale, Diego Primavera, Stefania Redolfi, Angelo Scuteri, Antonio Egidio Nardi, Goce Kalcev, Massimiliano Pau, Mauro Giovanni Carta

PMC · DOI: 10.2196/85089 · 2026-01-15

## TL;DR

This study tests a virtual reality program to improve cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel VR-based cognitive remediation protocol for older adults with MCI.

## Key findings

- The trial will assess feasibility through dropout rates and participant satisfaction.
- Preliminary data will evaluate cognitive and quality of life outcomes in older adults with MCI.

## Abstract

Innovative approaches, such as virtual reality (VR)–based cognitive rehabilitation, are becoming essential to healthy aging.

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and generate preliminary evidence regarding the effectiveness of an immersive VR-based cognitive remediation intervention for older individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

A total of 40 individuals aged 65 years and older, of both genders with MCI, will be recruited and randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. The experimental group will participate in a 6-week VR-based cognitive remediation program, while the control group will receive healthy lifestyle education. Feasibility will be assessed through measures, including dropout rates, side effects, and satisfaction with the program. Preliminary effectiveness will be evaluated using assessments of cognitive functions, quality of life, functional mobility, depression and anxiety symptoms, regulation of social and biological rhythms, body awareness, and physical activity levels.

Recruitment began in May 2024 and is expected to conclude by November 2025; to date, 153 participants have been recruited and screened, with 39 enrolled. Preliminary analyses are planned for January 2026 and follow-up analyses for January 2027.

This trial will provide insights into the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a VR-based intervention for older adults with MCI, with implications for its integration into preventive and rehabilitative care.

ClinicalTrial.gov NCT06579378; https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?term=NCT06579378

DERR1-10.2196/85089

## Full-text entities

- **Genes:** AP2B1 (adaptor related protein complex 2 subunit beta 1) [NCBI Gene 163] {aka ADTB2, AP105B, AP2-BETA, CLAPB1}
- **Diseases:** malignant neoplasm (MESH:D009369), eye strain (MESH:D013180), dementia (MESH:D003704), epilepsy (MESH:D004827), stroke (MESH:D020521), vision conditions (MESH:D014786), neurological conditions (MESH:D019636), behavioral disorders (MESH:D001523), sleep and appetite disturbances (MESH:D001068), retinal detachment (MESH:D012163), psychomotor disturbances (MESH:D011596), difficulty concentrating (MESH:C567712), loss of self-esteem (MESH:D012652), diminished postural stability (MESH:D043171), bodily pain (MESH:D010146), suicidal ideation (MESH:D001072), low energy (MESH:D009800), metabolic disorders (MESH:D008659), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (MESH:C000726808), MCI (MESH:D060825), renal disorders (MESH:D007674), post-COVID-19 (MESH:D000094024), anxiety (MESH:D001007), Parkinson disease (MESH:D010300), dizziness (MESH:D004244), headache (MESH:D006261), Alzheimer, vascular (MESH:D000544), bronchopulmonary disorders (MESH:D001997), depressed mood (MESH:D003866), nausea (MESH:D009325), visual fatigue (MESH:D001248), neuropsychological disorders (MESH:D009358), anxiety symptoms (MESH:D001008), impaired limb coordination (MESH:D001259), glaucoma (MESH:D005901), anhedonia (MESH:D059445), Cognitive Impairment (MESH:D003072), cardiovascular conditions (MESH:D002318), restlessness (MESH:D011595)
- **Chemicals:** AP (MESH:D000667), FS (MESH:D005461)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Figures

1 figure with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12856399/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12856399