Feasibility and User Experience of Virtual Reality Positive Psychological Intervention in Older Korean Immigrants

TL;DR

This study explores how well older Korean immigrants in the U.S. respond to a virtual reality mental health program designed to reduce stress and improve well-being during the pandemic.

Contribution

The study introduces a culturally tailored VR-based positive psychological intervention for older Korean immigrants.

Findings

The VR intervention showed high retention and engagement rates among participants.

Users found the VR experience culturally relevant and emotionally engaging.

Technical and physical challenges, like headset discomfort, were reported but did not hinder overall acceptance.

Abstract

Older Korean immigrants in the U.S. face significant mental health challenges, particularly discrimination-related stress, anxiety, and depression, exacerbated by anti-Asian racism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Limited access to culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health care necessitates innovative approaches, such as virtual reality (VR)-based positive psychological interventions. This study examined the feasibility, acceptability, and user experience of a culturally tailored VR-based positive psychological intervention for older Korean immigrants during the pandemic. A mixed-methods approach was employed. The three-week (four-module) intervention assessed feasibility through recruitment, retention, adherence, and dropout rates. Acceptability and user experience were evaluated using surveys and semi-structured interviews. Feasibility was supported by high retention (96.9%) and engagement. Participants reported positive emotional engagement, cultural relevance, and ease of use. Participants found the VR intervention engaging, particularly enjoying the immersive nature-based environments and interactive exercises, which fostered a sense of achievement, gratitude, and a positive mindset. However, some faced technical difficulties and physical discomfort, such as pressure from the headset and eye strain due to blurred screens. A VR-based culturally tailored positive psychological intervention is a feasible and acceptable tool for addressing mental health disparities in older Korean immigrants. Future research should refine usability and assess long-term effectiveness for broader implementation.