Page 47 - Seniorstoday July 2024 Issue
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realities we cannot overlook among the
senior population. Throw into the mix were asked to complete questionnaires
physical limitations and deteriorating measuring loneliness in offline (real-
health, and this conundrum exacerbates. If world) and online (VR) scenarios. Results
you’re seeking some respite during these indicated that participants generally felt
trying times (and beyond), you’ll want to less lonely and socially anxious in a VR
integrate VR into your lives. environment compared to real-world
Virtual reality opens the digital sphere, settings. Additionally, those who were part
teleporting you into a parallel reality that of a virtual support group (VSG) reported
boosts community interaction, captivating even lower levels of loneliness and social
discourses, and kinetic activities. This anxiety.
facilitates meaningful discussions and Virtual reality applications like Alcove
creates a sense of community among like- VR, Meta Quest 2, and Engage VR provide
minded individuals. immersive environments where older
Although studies are still limited on adults can connect, engage in various
the use of VR in combatting loneliness, activities, and share experiences.
researchers are steadily gaining interest
in it. In a study by Nature, 74 participants VR Is Changing the Game for Seniors
VR does everything from combating
loneliness and keeping the mind and body
in good shape to transporting you to far-
flung places. Sure, there is a slight learning
curve to this technology, but with a little
bit of perseverance, you can immerse
yourself in a vast array of applications
brimming with virtual yet authentic
experiences.
SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #61 | JULY 2024 47
