Benefits of Virtual Reality for Seniors

Virtual reality is becoming an increasingly popular therapy option for seniors facing physical and mental health concerns. Along with supporting memory care, VR may help reduce pain, depression and social isolation.

Ease Chronic Pain, Anxiety and Depression

Research has explored how immersion in virtual environments may help people manage chronic pain, anxiety and depression. This approach may be particularly relevant to people with dementia who experience these concerns.

• Dr. Albert Rizzo’s laboratory at the University of Southern California has used virtual exposure therapy to help military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.
• The Veterans United Foundation has created virtual experiences of veterans’ memorials for people who cannot travel to visit them.
• Scientists at the Chronic Pain Research Institute have tested a virtual meditative walk designed to help manage pain and stress.
• Researchers at the University of Washington developed SnowWorld, an icy virtual environment used to reduce pain for burn patients during wound treatment.

Mitigate Social Isolation

Social contact can decrease with age because of retirement, mobility limitations and the loss of friends or family members. Research suggests that shared and engaging VR experiences could help reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation among seniors.

Explore the World

VR can give seniors the feeling of visiting destinations such as Hawaiian beaches, French cafés and the Swiss Alps. Experiences may also include traveling through the solar system or painting from an artist’s perspective. These activities can provide stimulation and access to experiences that may otherwise be difficult because of mobility or travel limitations.

Spark Memories

Virtual reality has been used to trigger long-term memories and encourage communication. Seniors may also discuss their virtual experiences with friends, relatives and caregivers afterward, creating opportunities for connection.

• At an Australian aged-care home, a virtual tour of Rome and Venice prompted one resident to recall a previous boat journey to Australia.
• An 86-year-old musician who had not communicated for months began tapping her foot during a three-dimensional virtual orchestra tour.