Virtual reality (VR) is fast becoming a powerful tool in elderly care in Hong Kong, transforming how seniors experience the world around them. Thanks to advances in VR technology over recent years, seniors can now explore new and exotic places, relive cherished memories, and engage in stimulating activities, all in the comfort and safety of their own home or care facility. In this blog, we will take a closer look at 5 ways virtual reality is transforming elderly care in Hong Kong.
It is thought that stimulating the brain as we age strengthens neural plasticity and can prevent or slow the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, which is responsible for up to 70% of dementia cases. With 10 million new cases of dementia reported globally each year, it is vital that we harness advances in technology to address the issue.
VR is one of those technologies that can help. VR experiences can help to improve cognitive function by providing engaging activities that challenge the brain. Using VR, seniors can participate in memory-enhancing activities, visit familiar places from their past, or explore new environments, which can trigger memories, promote a sense of wellbeing, and stimulate conversation.
In fact, studies have shown that VR can be especially beneficial for those with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. By revisiting meaningful places, or experiencing calming environments, users’ experience improved mood, and decreased anxiety.
Two more factors thought to contribute to the onset of dementia are loneliness and depression. Through multi-user VR experiences, seniors can engage in group activities such as virtual guided tours, travel, and games. These interactions can foster connections and provide seniors with a sense of belonging, even if they live alone, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and depression.
Physical activity, in particular aerobic exercises, is also associated with a reduction in age-related brain tissue loss. Though some seniors find it difficult to venture outside to exercise, VR experiences can include gentle physical activities that can be performed at home. Walks, dance exercises, or Tai Chi, in VR can help seniors stay active and engaged in a safe environment. These activities promote mobility and help maintain physical fitness without requiring strenuous exertion.
No matter what age we are, adventure, exploration, and new experiences always help to lift our mood. Seniors with mobility issues might feel they are unable to experience this anymore, but with VR they still can. They can virtually visit famous landmarks, cultural events, and even outer space! This ability to explore new places ignites curiosity, brings joy, and gives seniors a renewed sense of adventure in their lives.
For those seniors looking for a more calming experience, VR can transport users to virtual beaches, forests, or mountain settings. Users can immerse themselves in these natural environments, unwind and reduce stress, which is especially valuable for those suffering from anxiety, offering a therapeutic escape from their daily routine and surroundings.
One of the key advantages of using VR to enhance elderly care in Hong Kong, is the ease of implementation and relative low cost. The devices are very portable and easy to set up and use. All facilities need to do when considering using VR to aid with elderly care is to ensure staff are well versed on its use, and provide proper guidance and support to users during VR sessions in order to maximise the potential of the experience.
Virtual reality is reshaping how seniors experience the world and interact with others, providing them with new opportunities to stay mentally, socially, and physically active. GF Technovation’s VR360 solution provides virtual tours specifically designed for elderly users, ensuring they have a comfortable and enriching experience. The customizable content allows for personalized VR sessions for each user, making the experience even more impactful. To learn more about the VR360 solution and other innovative elderly wellbeing devices, click here.
