Virtual reality as a way of keeping seniors activ in retirement homes.

Czech version

Authors: Mgr. Věra Suchomelová; Th. D. D; Mgr. Karolína Diallo; Ph. D. D
Authors‘ workplace: Teologická fakulta Jihočeské univerzity, České Budějovice
Published in: Geriatrie a Gerontologie 2019, 8, č. 3: 115-118
Category: Original Article

Overview

In this paper we have outlined the development of a set of virtual experiences as a tool for keeping active the residents in senior home facilities. Unlike other technologies, virtual reality (VR) can provide the user with an almost perfect feeling of physical being in an imaginary world or a place representing reality and the user can actively influence the storyline. A quantitative survey among managers of senior facilities and the residents showed that both groups of respondents are interested in this new way of keeping seniors active. As for the content of the virtual reality experience, both groups strongly preferred a forest environment and an environment associated with travel. In addition, a survey among residents showed a strong need to be a part of the community. To some extent, this need may be met by a suitable virtual environment scenario, but even more so by the chance to share virtual experiences with others. Keeping seniors active in virtual reality should support social interaction in the senior’s real world and correspond to the framework of activities in the facility.

Keywords:

activation – elderly – virtual reality – virtual environment – immersivity – interactivity – emotions – needs

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