VR for Seniors: How Virtual Reality Can Benefit the Elderly

Virtual reality technology has become increasingly popular in recent years. It opens up new opportunities for business, retail, the medical industry, tourism, etc. But let’s put that aside and talk about more important applications. 

Did you know that even our grandparents can benefit from using VR? Let’s dig deeper and find out how VR can help seniors live more fulfilling and exciting lives. 

Benefits of Virtual Reality for Older Adults

The research results are impressive. In collaboration with Mynd Immersive, a Stanford study found that nearly 80% of seniors reported a more positive outlook after VR sessions. About 60% felt a reduction in social isolation. 

Additionally, over 83% of residents and almost 95% of caregivers noted that discussing VR experiences strengthened their relationships. These compelling statistics underscore the impact VR can have on seniors’ lives. 

Better Social Interactions

Socializing methods, like family visits or community events, are not always feasible for older people. The reasons may differ: distance, mobility issues, health concerns, etc. VR is here to help. Using this technology, seniors can connect with friends and relatives more frequently in virtual spaces.

Mental Stimulation

Cognitive decline often leads to memory loss and overall mental sluggishness. You might think about puzzles or reading. However, these tools do not help in all the cases. Utilizing virtual reality is a different kettle of fish. Unlike conventional activities, it engages multiple senses simultaneously and creates a more stimulating environment for the brain.

Physical Rehabilitation

Monotonous, repetitive exercises are not something that can attract and bring pleasure. Mobility issues, pain, and lack of motivation, which older people often face, also reduce the effectiveness of rehabilitation. Virtual reality transforms physical therapy into a more engaging and enjoyable experience. VR creates a space where seniors can perform their exercises in a fun manner.

Stress Reduction

Stress and anxiety are common issues among older adults. Virtual reality can greatly improve the efficiency of medication or therapy. How come? VR can transport seniors to peaceful settings like serene beaches, tranquil forests, or quiet gardens. They can engage in guided meditation or enjoy the relaxing scenery.

Lifelong Learning

Yes, seniors can read books and magazines and watch educational TV shows. However, with virtual reality technology, you can give them more. People can continue learning new skills and gaining knowledge in an interactive way.

Improved Quality of Life

New places to visit, new knowledge and skills, new hobbies – VR sessions make every day more interesting and exciting. With a single tool, people can engage in activities that are otherwise difficult or impossible due to physical constraints. 

Virtual Reality and Aged Care: The Use Cases of VR for Seniors

One more statistical fact: according to the University of Maryland, using VR for learning led to an 8.8% increase in information retention accuracy. Other studies have shown that VR can enhance neural connections that support sensory, motor, and cognitive skills. What does that mean? These facts prove that virtual reality is a valuable tool in aged care. Let’s talk about common cases of technology application.

Reducing the Feeling of Social Isolation

It goes without saying that loneliness negatively affects a person’s emotional and psychological state, especially an older person. Spending a whole day alone is really hard. 

Yes, there are children and grandchildren, but they cannot always be around because they have their work and family. Loneliness often leads to depression. People become closed-minded.

Examples of using VR for social isolation reduction:

• Virtual meetups.
• Group activities and clubs.
• Virtual tours with family and friends.

Of course, even these activities will not replace live communication. However, VR will definitely make life more fulfilling for your elderly loved ones. That way elder people can stay connected and engaged with others. 

Improving Mental Health and Overall Wellbeing

We often underestimate the importance of mental health, but we shouldn’t. Anxiety and stress are frequent companions of life, especially when it comes to seniors. How can you help them maintain a stable emotional state?

Examples of using VR:

• Guided meditation and mindfulness.
• Virtual nature walks.
• Art and music therapy.

With a VR headset, a senior can sit by a virtual waterfall, listen to calming sounds, and follow a guided meditation session. People can also walk through forests, lie on beaches under the sun, climb mountains, and so on. Isn’t that great? 

Fighting Against Dementia

Memory loss and cognitive decline are two of the main consequences of dementia. This disease affects millions of seniors. Virtual reality technology can help alleviate symptoms and improve a person’s condition.

Examples of using VR:

• Personalized therapy sessions.
• Reminiscence therapy.
• Cognitive training exercises.

One of the most effective methods is recalling past events. It helps to improve mood and cognitive function. VR can immerse seniors in a previously familiar but virtual environment. For example, a person can visit their childhood home or a beloved vacation spot. Can you imagine what kind of feelings such a trip would evoke?

Cognitive Abilities Stimulation

It’s no secret that cognitive functions decline over time. To keep the mind sharp, one has to make serious efforts. Virtual reality is a great way to support brain health.

Examples of using VR:

• Memory games and puzzles in virtual escape rooms.
• Exploring new places and learning about different cultures.
• Practicing spatial navigation by finding their way through virtual mazes.
• Attending virtual classes on history, science, art, etc.

As you can see, VR offers various cognitive stimulation activities. Seniors can train their critical thinking and problem-solving skills and have exciting experiences. After the VR session, one of the Stanford University study participants, Anne Selby, said it stimulated virtually every area of her brain. 

Exploring the World without Leaving Home

This is the most exciting application of VR technology for seniors. Usually, people, especially those in older age, are limited in exploring new places. But what could be more compelling and engaging? Using virtual reality tools, seniors can visit destinations around the globe from their homes.

Examples of using VR:

• A virtual tour of the Eiffel Tower.
• Wandering through the streets of Rome.
• Exploring the Great Wall of China.

Moreover, world-renowned museums and art galleries offer VR tours of their collections. Seniors can virtually walk through the Louvre in Paris for example. Also, they can visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York or the British Museum in London. 

Summing Up

When we talk about the elderly, think about your grandparents. Do you want to make them happier and more satisfied with life? Would you like to see the joy in their eyes? Of course you would. Innovative virtual reality technology is just what you need. 

Compelling research and real-world applications demonstrate the positive impact of VR. Contact us for a consultation to create a fulfilling and connected experience for older adults.