Technology

The Ageless Power of VR and AR

With the recent release of headsets such as Apple’s Vision Pro, which came out in January, interest in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) has increased exponentially. When a user puts on a VR or AR device, they can see virtual content projected on the display screen before their eyes, which can overlay on the real environment around them (augmented reality), or create a completely digital 360-degree environment (virtual reality).

Often seen as merely a toy for children or a gaming platform, the truth is that VR and AR have a wide range of applications and have even been put to use in clinical settings to help ease the effects of aging.

Cognitive Stimulation and Memory Retention

For those who may struggle with memory loss, VR is revolutionizing treatment. Through a pair of VR goggles it is easy, for example, to stroll down the cobblestone streets of your childhood neighborhood. Apps like Oculus Move and Mind VR aren’t just a trip down memory lane, however; they’re a cognitive workout, engaging the brain in a way that sparks memories and keeps those neural pathways firing. It’s like a gym for the mind, but instead of lifting weights, your loved one is flexing their memory muscles in a virtual wonderland.

Apps like Alcove VR, which is available on the Meta Quest 3 headset, have been designed with seniors in mind. The app provides a curated collection of virtual experiences, from reliving historical events to interactive games that challenge cognitive skills. Meanwhile, AR apps like WayAround are making everyday life more accessible. By tagging objects in the environment with virtual labels and reminders, we can effortlessly navigate the world while boosting memory and fostering independence.

Improving Mobility and Balance

Imagine putting on a VR headset and finding yourself on a virtual hiking trail, encouraging you to step, sway, and stretch in ways that not only improve balance but also make fitness feel like a thrilling expedition. It’s not only a workout; it’s a journey through immersive landscapes that keep the body moving and the mind engaged.

Maintaining physical health, especially mobility and balance, becomes both more difficult and more challenging as we age. Apps like Magic Horizons can take your living room and turn it into a dynamic playground. Using AR, we can engage in interactive exercises that challenge balance and coordination.

Technology Provides a Personalized Approach

The beauty of this tech is its adaptability. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution but a dynamic toolbox that caters to diverse needs and personalizes experiences to the user. These emerging technologies are opening up new possibilities for engaging experiences that go beyond the cookie-cutter approach of traditional therapies. The result is that in this digital age, growing older doesn’t have to mean growing less adventurous — it means stepping into a world where the possibilities are as boundless as the imagination.

Today's Transitions Spring 2024 | By Vanessa Hutchison