Using VR to connect, stimulate and bring joy to seniors

The lockdowns and resulting isolation of the last 12 months have been a significant challenge to many seniors. For many in aged care facilities, this period will have been especially difficult.

The risk of experiencing loneliness and social isolation increases as we get older, and studies show that living in an aged care facility can contribute to those feelings (Neves, Sanders & Kokanović 2019). Seniors, and especially those living in aged care homes, need extra support in maintaining positive physical and mental health right now.

At SilVR Adventures, our mission is to enrich the quality of life for seniors through meaningful and joyful virtual reality (VR) experiences. Initially offering in-facility VR sessions to groups of seniors, we adapted to the needs of our customers and their residents when the pandemic hit. We launched a self-service model, enabling care teams with everything required to deploy as and when they needed – no need for an outside facilitator, no integration with IT systems, and full customer and technical support.

This innovative solution delivers our full range of virtual content and activities. An extensive library of guided virtual tours around the world, lets groups of up to 40 participants experience incredible adventures like swimming with dolphins, or gazing with wonder at the Northern Lights. Residents can be transported to our virtual cafe where they can chat, share stories and play games with peers in separate locations or even other facilities.

By combining best-in-class VR headsets and content with an accessible and robust training and support program, we empower care teams to match VR experiences to their residents’ identities – to put smiles on faces and create something truly meaningful.

Seniors can watch their favourite classic movie or musical together in our virtual theatre. They can even revisit a childhood home, wedding venue, or reminisce by sharing special photos and music among the group in a relaxing virtual environment.

To date, more than 2,000 seniors across Australia and New Zealand have taken part in our shared VR experiences, and we’re proud of the significant contribution we’ve made.

In a customer satisfaction survey carried out in December 2020, 85 per cent said that our solution helped significantly drive social engagement among residents. 88 per cent of customers said SilVR Adventures helped stimulate memories and shared stories among residents, while 82 per cent said they are running group VR sessions at least once a week with the same residents.

About SilVR Adventures

SilVR Adventures is a Melbourne-based technology company which provides products that connect, stimulate and bring joy to seniors through virtual reality.

SilVR Adventures works with aged care facilities, retirement living communities, hospitals and related services across Australia and New Zealand.

Contact the team today to schedule an online demo and let’s discuss a solution that suits your needs: sales@silvradventures.com.au | 1300 192 552 | www.silvradventures.com.au