Virtual Reality Helps Prevent Social Isolation in Seniors
Contributed by Sarah Imme
Some have traveled far and wide and some have rarely ventured from their own communities, but everyone has a dream destination or a wish to return to a favorite location. Travel can be hindered by many things, whether it be time, money, health complications or a combination of all the other obligations that life throws at us. As we age and care needs grow, it can become increasingly more difficult to travel, which makes that bucket list of destinations look less and less like a reality.
For those who reside in senior living communities, it can be especially taxing to even travel to medical appointments, let alone to go on a vacation or otherwise experience an enjoyable outing. Unfortunately, these changes in health, mobility and cognitive decline also leads to an increase in stress, depression, and social isolation. Thankfully, new research shows that there is a high-tech option available to help combat these negative aspects of growing older: virtual reality. While virtual reality isn’t new, the idea of using it to create meaningful activities to benefit seniors is new and is now available in our very own communities.
Ancora Home Health and Hospice has invested in virtual reality technology and partnered with Rendever as their platform was designed specifically for seniors and has the largest virtually library available. Through immersive experiences, seniors and caregivers alike are able to choose from a library full of destinations and activities, with new items being added weekly. Would you choose to walk along a high suspension bridge? Visit a European Christmas village? Dig your toes in the sand? Get lost in Greece? With time and money no longer a factor, the choices are endless!
Rendever is also user friendly, so for those with a destination in mind, you can search your preferred location and choose your experience. Some prefer to go down memory lane and visit their hometown, college campus, or favorite past vacation spot. This option can be especially meaningful for those seniors who are experiencing cognitive decline and memory issues. For those unsure where to begin, all you need to do is spin the globe! Similar to throwing a dart at a map, this option opens up possibilities someone may not have thought to explore on their own. For someone who is a life-long learner and likes to incorporate history and education into their experiences, there is a choice for guided tours in the region of choice.
We know it sounds like fun (and it is!), but you may be wondering if it’s truly effective. Absolutely! The feedback from recent events has been overwhelmingly positive and moods are visibly lifted. To quote what a recent participant said while swimming with fish: “This is wonderful. This is amazing!”
If you have a family member who lives in a long-term care facility who you think may benefit from the world of virtual reality, or if you work in a facility interested in offering this to your residents, please reach out to Ancora today! You can call either of our locations to learn more about how we can partner to improve the lives of seniors: Anchorage (907.561.0700) or Wasilla (907.561.9240).
Pictured is an Ancora team member with a Marlow Manor resident who was enjoying his experience.