The Effects of Virtual Reality Greenspace on Stress Among Adults With Mobility Impairments

The Effects of Virtual Reality Greenspace Exposure on Physiological and Affective Acute Stress Responses Among Adults With Mobility Impairments: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this project is to examine the effects of virtual reality greenspace exposure on physiological and affective acute stress responses among adults with mobility impairments.

Exposure to greenspace is known to yield numerous mental and physical health benefits such as improved mood, decreased stress, and increased levels of physical activity. Regular access to greenspace however is difficult for various segments of the population including individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions. Numerous factors contribute to this difficulty including architectural barriers, shortage of accessible trails, and limited transportation options. These challenges have led to a growing interest in exploring the use of virtual reality (VR) greenspace environments. Studies have demonstrated that VR greenspace exposure can reduce stress and improve mood and mental well-being in various populations but has not been tested among individuals with mobility impairments who experience high levels of stress. During a single lab visit, participants will be randomized to VR greenspace activity or control, undergo the Trier Social Stress Test. The VR group will then engage in a series of nature-based VR activities. The Control group will sit quietly. Assessments will be collected at 4 timepoints. Physiological stress responses will be measured via changes in BP, HR, and two saliva measures (salivary alpha-amylase, salivary cortisol). Affective response (stress, affect, anxiety) will be assessed using self-report surveys. This study will provide insight into the influence of VR greenspace exposure on stress recovery (physiological and affective responses), among individuals with mobility impairments.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 18 and 75 years
• A self-reported lower extremity mobility impairment (e.g., cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, stroke) with partial or full use of the upper extremities.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Impairment in visual acuity as measured by a Snellen eye chart <20/70 after correction
• Regular engagement (>20 minutes/week) in virtual reality greenspace activity
• Having an endocrine disorder (that can affect cortisol levels)
• Taking oral corticosteroids
• Score below 24 on the Mini Mental State Exam