NCT07431164

Augmented Reality-Based Aromatherapy Education for Older Adults With Early-Stage Dementia in Taiwan

The Impact of Augmented Reality-Based Aromatherapy Education on Symptoms in Older Adults With Early-Stage Dementia in Taiwan

• Status: Active Not Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 300 (estimated)
• Sponsor: National Taiwan Normal University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 65 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study evaluates an augmented reality (AR)-based aromatherapy education program designed for older adults with early-stage dementia in Taiwan. Participants are randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which receives AR-supported aromatherapy education sessions, or a comparison group receiving standard activities. The primary objective is to assess changes in neuropsychiatric symptoms and psychological well-being. Secondary outcomes include cognitive function and quality of life. The study aims to explore the feasibility and potential clinical benefits of integrating digital technology with non-pharmacological dementia care approaches.

Detailed description

The study includes multiple phases designed to examine both immediate and longer-term effects of the intervention. Phase 1 - Structured AR-Based Aromatherapy Education (Weeks 1-4): Participants receive the AR-based aromatherapy education program consisting of 12 structured sessions delivered over four weeks. Sessions integrate AR-guided instruction with hands-on aromatherapy learning activities. The Augmented Reality (AR)-Based Aromatherapy Education Module was systematically developed according to the 12 symptom domains of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q). Each unit was designed to align a specific neuropsychiatric symptom with targeted plant-based aromatic stimulation, structured educational activities, and symptom-oriented behavioral goals. The intervention consisted of 12 structured units delivered over four to six consecutive weeks (two to three sessions per week). Each session integrated AR-based digital guidance with hands-on aromatherapy activities to provide multisensory stimulation, cognitive engagement, and structured emotional regulation support. Phase 2 - Aromatherapy Withdrawal Observation (Weeks 5-8): Following completion of the structured sessions, aromatherapy products are discontinued to observe potential maintenance or withdrawal effects of the intervention. Participants continue routine daily activities without additional aromatherapy sessions. Phase 3 - Personalized Aromatherapy Support (Weeks 9-12): Based on symptom profiles and individual preferences, participants may receive guidance on the use of personalized aromatherapy products intended to support symptom management in daily life. Phase 4 - Follow-Up Observation (Weeks 13-16): Participants are followed to evaluate the sustainability of intervention effects. Outcome assessments are conducted to examine longer-term changes in neuropsychiatric symptoms and related health outcomes. The comparison group receives routine care and standard daily activities at the care setting without participation in the AR-based aromatherapy education program.

Conditions

• Dementia
• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
• Neuropsychiatric Symptoms

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Augmented Reality-Based Aromatherapy Education Program	The augmented reality-based aromatherapy education module was developed using the Neuropsychiatric Symptom Checklist-Q (NPI-Q) framework to match specific neuropsychiatric symptoms with corresponding aromatherapy interventions. This intervention program was designed and refined by a multidisciplinary team of experts. The course comprises 12 units, completed over four consecutive weeks through 2-3 units per week. To ensure a systematic approach, each session integrates three units, allowing for comprehensive coverage of symptom clusters within a structured timeframe. Each symptom corresponds to a specific aromatherapy activity and its associated learning objectives.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-05-23
• Primary completion: 2025-10-30
• Completion: 2026-03-01
• First posted: 2026-02-24
• Last updated: 2026-03-09

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Taiwan