Nature in a Box

This project explores using immersive VR to provide cognitive therapy for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) patients in Utah. Given the lack of effective pharmacological treatments for MCI, alternative interventions are critically needed, especially in rural areas facing healthcare disparities and limited access to cognitive care. We aim to recruit 30 patient-caregiver pairs and provide them with standalone VR headsets to experience nature environments over a six-month period. Our team will track the results using clinical assessments and MRI brain imaging to measure changes in cognitive health and brain volume. By combining VR with neuroimaging, this study aims to bridge the healthcare gap for rural populations facing limited access to specialists. Results will guide the development of Nature in a Box as a proof-of-concept model for rural healthcare delivery and provide the groundwork for future large-scale clinical trials.

This research is funded by the University of Utah Research Foundation.