Tech-based Respite Care for Caregivers and Homebound Older Adults

All participants will provide informed consent at the time of enrolment. Both caregivers (CGs) and care recipients (CRs) will complete assessments at baseline. CRs are assessed for cognitive function (using Mini-Mental State Examination - MMSE) and other health indicators. CGs are assessed for mental health, quality of life, and caregiving burden. Participants are randomized into three groups: VR intervention (n=30 dyads), video control (n=30 dyads), or usual care (n=30 dyads). Randomization is stratified by CG age (\<60 vs. ≥60) and CR cognitive status (MMSE \<24 vs. ≥24). As the intervention, the VR group receives 4 weekly 30-minute sessions of immersive VR experiences (e.g., virtual travel and social activities) facilitated by trained research staff. The video group receives 4 weekly 30-minute sessions of non-immersive videos with similar themes, also facilitated. The usual care group receives no additional intervention beyond community services. At the end of the intervention, participants complete assessments again to measure changes in physical and mental health. All participants will be contacted for follow-up assessment 3 months after the completion of intervention.