VIRTUAL REALITY IN TREATMENTS FOR ALZHEIMER'S PATIENTS

The use of virtual reality is becoming more present in the application of new methods and technologies applied in different disciplines. Its benefits are manifested in multiple new options as solutions to complex problems or issues simplifying processes and obtaining more effective results compared to traditional methodologies. The discipline of architectural design and health is not alien to the use of this new technology. Currently, there is a high increase in the use of virtual reality in both sectors and continues to represent a novel and fascinating method applied to specific requirements in the detection, treatment, and cure of diseases, as well as the training of the professionals involved. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. The loss of cognitive functioning—thinking, remembering, and reasoning—and behavioral abilities interferes directly with a person’s daily life and normal activities. Around the world, there will be one new case of dementia every three (3) seconds. Fifty (50) million people worldwide are living with dementia in 2018. This number will be more than triple to one hundred fifty-two (152) million by 2050. [1] In Italy, there are more than six hundred thousand (600.000) people with Alzheimer's disease, equal to 4% of the population over sixty-five (65). It is estimated that in 2050 the over-65s will represent 34% of the population that will make Italy one of the countries most affected by the disease. [2] The thesis is focused on two fundamental aspects: a design proposal for new architectural environments within the Geriatrics area at the Molinette hospital in the city of Turin, Italy; and the development of a treatment program for Alzheimer's patients using virtual reality. The first part seeks to reuse waste spaces within the areas of the current department of Geriatrics at Molinette Hospital, from the hypothesis of a proposal of interior design with a multisensory approach in which patients could have a first approach into a relaxation space where their reactions are stimulated and communication is enhanced. The second part aims to evaluate the results of the use of a VR application in a patient with Alzheimer's disease with the use of a VR device in a pre-established type of treatment program. VR is changing the methods of how architects are designing spaces, as well as doctors and researches, are treating and diagnosing Alzheimer’s care. The thesis aims to implement new technological solutions within the treatment of the disease from the architectural creation of virtual environments, in which multisensory contexts help to improve the quality of people's lives. 1. https://www.alz.co.uk/research/WorldAlzheimerReport2018.pdf 2. https://www.epicentro.iss.it/alzheimer/aggiornamenti