Virtual Reality-Assisted Breathing Exercises to Support Symptom Management and Rehabilitation in Interstitial Lung Diseases

The study is structured into three phases. Phase 1 involves the development of a VR application co-designed by an interprofessional team, including rehabilitation researchers, a biomedical engineer, and a patient partner. The application will deliver guided breathing exercises with real-time biofeedback, specifically tailored to the needs and limitations of individuals with ILDs.

Phase 2 evaluates the feasibility of the intervention. A total of 32 adult participants diagnosed with fibrotic ILDs will be recruited. Inclusion criteria are: (a) age ≥18 years, (b) ability to understand English, and (c) a confirmed diagnosis of fibrotic ILDs. Exclusion criteria include: (a) recent acute exacerbation or hospitalization, (b) inability to provide informed consent (e.g., due to cognitive impairment), and (c) conditions that prevent safe use of VR, such as significant visual or auditory impairments.

At the intake visit in the Respirability Lab, an RA will obtain informed consent, explain the study procedures, and conduct a practice session based on the participant's assigned group. Participants will also receive individualized safety parameters, including target heart rate limits, minimum oxygen saturation thresholds, and training on the use of a pulse oximeter and associated mobile application.

The study uses a randomized crossover design, where each participant completes both the VR intervention and the control condition in a randomized order, separated by a 2-week washout period.

The intervention group will use the VR-based breathing application at home for approximately 10 minutes per day, five days per week, over a 4-week period. The program includes a gradual transition from supervised to independent use to ensure safety and correct technique wherein in week 1, participants complete two supervised laboratory sessions and three home sessions; Weeks 2-4 are primarily home-based, with one additional lab session in Week 3 for reinforcement and monitoring.