There is no denying that the advancement of technology in healthcare has improved many aspects of life. From smart watches and fitness trackers to home monitoring, it seems like everything is connected in this day and age. Virtual Reality is becoming more of a reality, and more common in the senior living setting.
How can virtual reality help impact the quality of life for seniors?
IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE
Seniors are able to avoid boredom, improve their mental and physical abilities while reigniting passions to re-explore and experience the world. Provide life changing VR experiences and personal agency, that allows seniors to feel free and globally mobile.
SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN BENEFITS
Top studies have shown significant mental and physical improvements with weekly VR engagement in both healthy and Alzheimer's adults. Studies also show that VR is a strong tool for combating the development of Alzheimer’s symptoms in aging individuals.
Large improvements were reported in adult brain function & stimulation, as well as wellbeing, pain management, spatial processing and other important categories. The studies also noticed substantial reductions in loneliness, boredom, depression, balance and motor issues among other important results. VR is the perfect fit for adult care.
A MENTALLY STIMULATING ALTERNATIVE TO TV
VR immersive worlds offer captivating experiences that allow residents to forget their chronic pain, anxiety and feelings of isolation. Engaging in light interactive VR experiences provides many health and mental benefits over passive TV watching. Transition from passive watching to immersive engagement.
A LIFELIKE GATEWAY TO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD
Prevent boredom and depression by allowing residents to travel the world and explore life changing experiences together. Visit anywhere in the world, explore outer-space, coral reefs, museums, landmark locations and much more. Reignite residents passion for life.
PROMOTE INTERACTIVE LIGHT EXERCISE
Studies have shown improvements in physical strength, balance and stamina in adults who use VR. Offer an endless amount of locations and experiences that will motivate residents to engage in light exercise.
(information from http://www.seniorcarevr.com/)
Virtual reality can help seniors rediscover the joys of everyday life. It has the ability to allow seniors to “travel” and see places in the world when they are physically not able to travel. VR can also help with memory loss in Dementia and Alzheimers, using certain scenes to jog their memory and help with memory recall.
Here is a list of 5 companies using VR to improve the lives of Senior Citizens: