Virtual reality isn’t just for gamers.
Seniors are using virtual reality (VR) to connect with the outside world more and more. Concerts, museum tours, and plays can all be experienced through the world of virtual reality, allowing people who have difficulty getting around more of a chance to experience culture and entertainment than ever before. Not too long ago, this would have been impossible. Today, it is easier than ever. Not only does it help provide entertainment for the elderly, it also helps to keep them engaged and mentally active. This can go a long way toward helping to promote mental health and happiness.
This isn’t for every senior, just like not everyone is interested in VR technology. But many will benefit from it. Even if it offers just a little bit of support, it’s still beneficial.
Care centers that have been early adopters of this technology have reported positive outcomes with patients. There is not any sort of official research on the usage of VR in senior care homes at this point, but anecdotally, it appears like there is some benefit. As this sort of technology becomes cheaper and more easily accessible, it is very likely that we are going to see it grow in popularity. Intuitive and easy to use software will only enhance the experience for those that use it, too.
But no matter how advanced virtual reality becomes in the future, it’s not a replacement for human contact. It’s not a replacement for real life interactions and experiences. But it can be a good fill-in when these other things are not fully accessible. Homebound seniors are likely to be one of the primary audiences that this technology can help. Additionally, VR could be a good fill in for helping individuals escape the type of loneliness and solitude that was rampant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Again, it’s not nearly the same as a real life interaction. But it is better than nothing. It could be another weapon in our arsenal to help seniors fight loneliness, isolation, and feelings of abandonment.
And virtual reality cannot replace the necessity for in-person senior care. VR can do a lot of stuff for people, but it can’t fully replace the need for human contact. High quality senior care isn’t just about meeting physical needs. That’s one of the many reasons why we are such vehement supporters of in-home care. Emotional needs tend to be met much better in the home setting. The person receiving care is in a place they are comfortable in and happy with, and they typically are closer to family here. Removing someone from the home setting for more intensive care is sometimes necessary, but most of the time, this is done before it is necessary. Sometimes, a professional in-home caregiver is all that is needed to bridge that gap. This sort of human interaction can go a long way towards improving both health and happiness.
Do you have questions about care? We’d love to help. Give us a call today to get started with a free consultation.
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