Emerging Technologies: Exploring the health and well-being benefits of using VR with adults living in long-term care communities

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Much has been written about the global demographic shift and its corresponding impact on nearly every sector of society. While, statistically, we often consider individuals over the age of 65 (traditionally defined "seniors") as one large category, it is important to note that this group is by no means homogenous; older adults represent an extremely diverse group with varied characteristics, behaviours and needs, requiring specific and detailed consideration from researchers and service providers. As individuals over the age of 65 represent fully 16.9% of Canada's population, the importance of understanding the needs and interests of this group cannot be overestimated, especially as one considers the impact an aging population is expected to have on the health and social service sector. The proposed research, led by the Centre for Elder Research, an applied research institute based out of Sheridan College, will explore innovative ways in which emerging technologies can be leveraged to support older adults. Specifically, the research team at the Centre will investigate how virtual reality (VR) experiences and environments can be used to enhance the health and well-being of adults 70+ residing in congregate living facilities such as long-term care homes (LTC). We intend to discover the systemic barriers and facilitators faced by service providers with respect to integrating VR-based technologies into these environments, while also exploring which types of VR-based experiences are of most interest to older residents and clients and then evaluating their impact. We will extend the impact of this work by exploring the generalizability of these outcomes to individuals living with dementia and those providing day program services to them. Expanding the VR possibilities beyond traditional entertainment purposes holds considerable potential for the older adult market in general, and for residents of LTC in particular. This partnership, bringing together researchers from Sheridan College and the Centre for Elder Research, service providers and technology developers, will result in the creation of unique programming options for residents with diverse needs, giving them a new way to support their health and well-being in congregate living communities.