Using Immersive Virtual Reality to Enhance Social Interaction among Older Adults: A Multi-site Study

TL;DR

This multi-site pilot study demonstrates that social virtual reality can be engaging and enjoyable for older adults, including those with cognitive impairments, potentially fostering social connections and engagement.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel multi-site social VR program for older adults, assessing its feasibility, acceptability, and impact on social engagement, including those with cognitive impairments.

Findings

High engagement and enjoyment reported by participants.

Perceived Spatial Presence linked to positive outcomes.

Participants willing to reconnect in future sessions.

Abstract

Research examining older adults interactions with Virtual Reality (VR) and the impact of social VR experiences on outcomes such as social engagement has been limited, especially among older adults. This multi-site pilot study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a novel social virtual reality (VR) program that paired older adults from different geographic locations (New York City, Tallahassee, and Ithaca, N.Y) who engaged in virtual travel and productive engagement activities together. The sample included 36 individuals aged 60 and older, 25 percent of whom had cognitive impairment (CI). Older adults with and without CI reported high levels of engagement in the VR environment and perceived the social VR program to be enjoyable and usable. Perceived Spatial Presence was a central driver of the positive outcomes. Most also indicated a willingness to reconnect with their VR partner in the future. The data also identified important areas for improvement in the program, such as the use of more realistic and responsive avatars, controllers with larger controls, and more time for training. Overall, these findings suggest that VR social applications may foster social engagement among older adults.