Co-Design and Feasibility Testing of an AI-Based Virtual Reality Application to Prepare People with Intellectual Disability for Healthcare Visits

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Co-Design and Feasibility Testing of an AI-Based Virtual Reality Application to Prepare People with Intellectual Disability for Healthcare Visits
Language: English
Authors: Stefan C. Michalski (ORCID 0000-0002-8542-8246), Jane Adams, Ali Darejeh, Rachael C. Cvejic, Sylvia M. Gustin, Julian N. Trollor (ORCID 0000-0002-7685-2977)
Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. 2026 39(2).
Availability: Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 13
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Computer Simulation, Artificial Intelligence, Intellectual Disability, Health Services, Access to Health Care, Adults, Usability
DOI: 10.1111/jar.70219
ISSN: 1360-2322
1468-3148
Abstract: Background: People with intellectual disability experience barriers in accessing healthcare. A virtual reality (VR) application that includes an intelligent agent powered by generative artificial intelligence (AI) may support preparation for healthcare visits in this population. Objective: To co-design, develop and evaluate the feasibility and usability of an AI-based VR application to improve healthcare preparedness for people with intellectual disability. Methods: Ten adults with intellectual disability completed an AI-VR experience simulating a general practitioner visit across three sequential scenes: checking in with a receptionist, waiting in a clinic waiting room, and consulting with a doctor. Participants interacted verbally with AI avatars. Semi-structured interviews followed each scene. Results: Participants valued the avatars' clear, patient communication and described the system as supportive for learning healthcare content and practising communication and self-advocacy skills. Usability issues were identified. Conclusion: AI-VR appears feasible and acceptable for healthcare preparation in people with intellectual disability. Refinements to system usability are needed to support independent use and broader implementation.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1504076
Database: ERIC
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