Virtual Reality (VR) and the tech industry are often regarded as a young person’s domain, but the reality says otherwise. VR technology is proving a wonderful and therapeutic resource for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia conditions!
Here are some insights about this breakthrough therapy, from the team at our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey.
As caregivers and family members are all too aware, dementia conditions cause people to lose connection with their lives. From confusion and memory loss to aggression and disorientation, they struggle to relate to the reality around them, especially as the condition progresses.
However, this technology creates a virtual world — one tailored to the specific needs of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Developed in a partnership between gaming studio, Opaque Media and Alzheimer’s Australia Victoria (a non-profit), this technology offers a richly detailed, beautiful, soothing and fully interactive world.
Virtual Reality as Sensory Therapy
While many fantastic therapies are available for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, VR offers something new. Using motion-sensing cameras and powerful gaming engines, it becomes a truly immersive sensory therapy.
Focused on positive, soothing imagery, patients can observe and interact with butterflies and other aspects of a peaceful, nature-rich world. While the application of this technology is still new, therapists from Alzheimer’s Australia Victoria report people became more engaged, more interactive and more communicative — even in cases in which they were previously non-verbal.
With the right support, this technology can advance further, with ideas focusing on tailored media design to help trigger memories, relive personal events and engage with loved ones. By all reports, this kind of therapy is poised to be a functional and practical way of providing critical emotional support to patients as well as their loved ones, fighting isolation and enabling the connections so critical to quality of life.
Become Part of the Community at Our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey
Bristol Glen, a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) and assisted living community based in Sussex County, aims to provide seniors with comfortable, serviced living arrangements that free up time to enjoy life.
Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living in Sussex County, New Jersey, please visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/ and book your visit today.
