Benefits of Virtual Reality in Aged Care

There are many benefits of using Virtual Reality (VR) technology in aged care.

Previously, McKenzie Aged Care have had Dementia Australia conduct education sessions with our staff of an interactive, multisensory world of a person living with dementia. The experience was aimed at increasing empathy by enabling participants to understand the environmental elements that are friendly or hostile. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their own approach to dementia support and to think about ways in which they can make their own environments more supportive.

Many of our lifestyle teams incorporate VR experiences into their activity programs with ‘Armchair Travel’, giving residents an opportunity to visit different countries and landmarks, and reminisce on destinations travelled to previously in their lives. VR also has the capacity for residents to virtually meet with family, friends or other residents in a chosen virtual location, a feature that is particularly beneficial following the challenges faced during the pandemic.

Recently, the Australian Red Cross held VR sessions at our Raffles home in Tweed Heads NSW, where they explored the beautiful scenery in Paris, Portugal, Alaska and Switzerland -to name a few. It was a huge success among residents, who gave some very positive feedback – Barbara said it was “unbelievable” and “magic” as she was hanging onto her chair at the edge of a cliff with absolutely amazing views. Residents couldn’t help but look above their heads when gazing at the amazing roof of the Sistine Chapel. Trish jumped out of her chair with excitement, pointing at the amazing scenes in Malta, saying “Beautiful! Look!”.

Other residents described the experience as “remarkable” and “very enjoyable”.

There was so much buzz around the home following the sessions. Residents couldn’t stop talking about where they would go next, an African Safari or a walk around the pyramids in Egypt.

Over the Christmas period, McCartney Family Funerals provided a ‘Virtual Armchair Travel’ experience for residents at Seaton Place, Cleveland QLD. Residents were transported across the sky on Santa’s sleigh, visiting cities around the world, a session that was thoroughly enjoyed by residents and really sparked the festive season.

It is pleasing to see the positive impact of modern technology used in aged care homes, as both a method of enjoyment for residents and a dementia education tool for carers.