Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a neurocognitive condition, progresses to Alzheimer's in about 50% of cases within five years. Traditional Reminiscence Therapy (RT) benefits MCI individuals by improving mood and self-esteem, but it faces issues of accessibility and personalization. This study explores the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Embodied Conversational Agents (ECAs) to provide a more personalized RT experience.
RT's positive impact on MCI individuals, including mood enhancement, is well-established. VR technology, offering immersive experiences, can further enhance overall well-being. To address accessibility, the study focuses on ECAs, which increase engagement and personalization.
Previous research has used life storybooks detailing personal histories in RT, which have improved quality of life and social interaction for MCI individuals. Combining life storybooks with VR and ECA presents a promising approach, though research in this area is limited.
The research aims to use an ECA to act like a real therapist in RT by facilitating and guiding conversations and co-designing life storybooks with MCI individuals. The methodology includes collecting personal and timeline information, designing personalized conversation templates, and co-designing life storybooks based on the gathered information.
The prior evidence suggests that this ECA possesses transformative potential to elevate the RT experience for those with MCI, paving the way to notably enhance their quality of life. This research, though preliminary with a prototype, offers insights into ECA's role in VR and has potential for future development. Upcoming RT sessions with MCI participants will provide data for further system refinement.