Using Immersive Virtual Reality to Enhance Social Interaction Among Older Adults: A Cross-Site Investigation

Abstract

Background and Objectives Virtual reality (VR) applications are increasingly being targeted toward older adults as a means to maintain physical and cognitive skills and to connect with others, especially during the COVID-19 era. Our knowledge about how older adults interact with VR is limited, however, since this is an emerging area and the related research literature is still rather slim. The current study focused specifically on older adults’ reactions to a social VR environment, examining participant’s views about the possibility of meaningful interactions in this format, the impacts of social-VR immersion on mood and attitude, and features of the VR environment that affected these outcomes. Research Design and Methods The researchers designed a novel social-VR environment with features intended to prompt conversation and collaborative problem-solving among older adults. Participants were recruited from three diverse geographic locations (Tallahassee, FL; Ithaca, NY; and New York City), and were randomly assigned to a partner from one of the other sites for social VR interaction. The sample consisted of 36 individuals aged 60 and older. Results Reactions to the social-VR were quite positive. Older adults reported high levels of engagement in the environment and perceived the social VR to be enjoyable and usable. Perceived spatial presence was found to be a central driver of positive outcomes. A majority of the participants indicated a willingness to reconnect with their VR partner in the future. The data also identified important areas for improvement that were of concern to older adults, such as the use of more realistic avatars, larger controllers more suited to aging hands, and more time for training/familiarization. Discussion and Implications Overall, these findings suggest that VR can be an effective format for social engagement among older adults.

The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality–Based Training on Cognitive, Social, and Physical Functioning in High-Functioning Older Adults (CoSoPhy FX): 2-Arm, Parallel-Group Randomized Controlled Trial

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“…VR-based training may also have a beneficial influence on physical activity, with research suggesting it can improve balance performance and functional mobility [ 14 ]. Additionally, the potential of VR interventions to promote social engagement and combat social isolation has also been studied among older adults [ 15 ].…”

Crossing the digital frontier: are older adults ready for virtual reality workouts?

“…Combining VR with the essence of nature paves the way for holistic enrichment. This fusion of cutting-edge technology and the therapeutic essence of nature opens new avenues for combating isolation and creating revolutionary therapeutic paradigms ( 27 , 28 ).…”

“…The innovative integration of virtual natural environments clearly increases older adults’ motivation to exercise, as evidenced by their increased participation in virtual cycling, for example ( 19 ). This technological alchemy captures the rejuvenating essence of nature and makes it accessible even to people with pronounced physical limitations ( 28 ). It entices us to imagine a world where the boundaries between reality and the digital are blurred and our understanding of limits is redefined.…”

“…In a world where social isolation among older adults is on the rise, VR is a beacon that revives the community bonds of the past. It offers more than digital panoramas; it creates spaces that encourage interaction, kinetic activities, and stimulating discussions ( 13 , 28 ). Applications such as Alcove VR, Meta Quest 2 or EngageVR epitomize this, offering virtual environments where older adults can gather, participate in diverse activities, and share experiences, thereby facilitating meaningful connections.…”