Post by : Badri Ariffin

Upon entering The Terraces in Los Gatos, California, it may resemble many typical retirement communities—peaceful, accommodating, and tailored for the daily requirements of seniors. For residents in their 80s and 90s, the possibility of long trips and adventurous outings has largely faded. However, thanks to virtual reality (VR), those barriers are being dismantled, allowing exploration of the world.

On special occasions, caregivers at The Terraces activate VR headsets, granting residents the opportunity to revisit places and moments they believed were long gone. In mere moments, seniors find themselves transported to European landmarks, vibrant underwater realms, or exhilarating hang-gliding escapades—all while comfortably seated among companions.

These VR experiences are provided by Rendever, a firm dedicated to utilizing immersive technology for a human-centered goal: enhancing mental health and fostering social bonds among the elderly. Rendever's platform currently serves around 800 senior living facilities across the U.S. and Canada.

From Tranquil Rooms to Ocean Adventures

During a recent VR session, residents could be observed mimicking swimming motions as they "dove" with dolphins in a 3D aquatic setting. Joy and amazement echoed throughout the space. "We went underwater without even needing to hold our breath," remarked 81-year-old Ginny Baird, grinning after the virtual expedition.

Other simulations elicited equally strong emotions. A hot-air balloon excursion drew gasps of wonder, while some participants clutched their seats as if bracing for wind. The feelings stirred within them are authentic, even though the journeys are indeed virtual.

Rediscovering Childhood Memories

Beyond thrilling experiences, VR has shown remarkable potential in reconnecting seniors with their formative years. The technology enables residents to revisit childhood neighborhoods, local streets, and well-known landmarks—sometimes after decades apart.

Sue Livingstone, 84, shared that a virtual journey to her childhood neighborhood in Queens, New York, affirmed VR's importance. "It’s not merely about seeing it again," she noted. "It’s about the flood of memories that return."

Livingstone believes the experience could entice residents who usually prefer their comfort zones. Once intrigue kicks in, many are keen to try the headset themselves.

A Catalyst for Social Interaction

According to Adrian Marshall, the community life director at The Terraces, VR sessions frequently transform into conversation starters. Residents discuss their experiences, compare memories, and build connections over shared moments—sometimes opting for VR over favored activities, such as the well-loved Mexican Train dominoes game.

"It fosters connections," Marshall observed. "People come to realize they share interests and life experiences. The virtual realm becomes incredibly tangible for them."

Research Backing and Growing Interest

Rendever recently secured approximately $4.5 million in support from the National Institutes of Health to examine how VR might alleviate social isolation among seniors living independently and their caregivers. Preliminary findings suggest that, when utilized purposefully, VR has the potential to enhance cognitive function, bolster memory recall, and promote meaningful social interactions.

Experts caution that VR should serve as a complement to traditional engagements, not a substitute. "Excessive screen time always poses a concern," cautioned neuropsychologist Katherine "Kate" Dupuis. "Yet when employed thoughtfully, it may help seniors engage, connect, and feel a sense of wonder."

Simpler Than Smartphones

For many older adults, VR can actually be more user-friendly than navigating smartphones or tablets. Researchers have noted that headsets eliminate the complications of small buttons or intricate menus, making technology more accessible.

Pallabi Bhowmick, a researcher analyzing VR implementations among older populations, emphasized the need to shift outdated perceptions. "Seniors are receptive to technology when it enriches their lives," she stated. "It can also nurture bonds between generations—grandchildren enjoy discovering that their grandparents are using VR."

A Mission-Driven Company

Rendever was born from deeply personal intentions. CEO Kyle Rand co-founded the company in 2016, aiming to assist his grandmother in addressing the emotional hurdles of aging. With expertise in neuroengineering, Rand recognized how shared virtual experiences could unite individuals.

"When seniors engage in VR together, something shifts," he remarked. "Initially, they might start as strangers, but soon they're sharing lunch and continuing their dialogue."

Benefits for Individuals with Dementia

VR is also under investigation as a resource for supporting those diagnosed with dementia. In another retirement residence in Silicon Valley, the Forum, residents are utilizing VR to enrich memories and heighten emotional engagement.

Bob Rogallo, 83, dealing with dementia and limited speech, demonstrated visible engagement during a virtual hike across Glacier National Park. His wife, Sallie, mentioned the experience rekindled their memories of traveling the U.S. in their RV together. "I wished I could be 30 years younger," she expressed.

In another instance, 93-year-old Almut Schultz laughed joyfully as she experienced a virtual classical concert at Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre, reaching out as though to pet an imaginary puppy in her virtual environment.

"What an incredible session that was!" she remarked afterward, beaming.

A New Route to Experience Life

For a significant number of seniors, virtual reality transcends mere entertainment. It grants them autonomy, revives memories, fosters connections, and brings joy—all within reach. While these experiences are digital, the feelings they evoke are undeniably authentic.

#Global News #AI #Technology