An Exploration of Virtual Reality Use and Application Among Older Adult Populations

From Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine

by Julie A. Brown, Ph.D.

It was tough to get through this past holiday season without seeing an ad for some kind of virtual reality (VR) platform.  Commercials for VR tend to show teenagers and younger adults playing in a virtual world – perhaps fighting a fictional nemesis or honing their sword-wielding skills.  However, mobile forms of VR like this aren’t just for younger folks.  In fact, not only have older persons shown interest in VR, but there are growing discussions about how VR may be used to improve their lives as well. For example, this includes virtual tourism where an adult explores a popular vacation destination, such as The Louvre or Grand Canyon.

Photo by Jens Kreuter on Unsplash

Before researchers begin to use VR with older populations, it is important to consider usability, safety, and ethical issues.  This is particularly important for older persons who have notable health concerns, such as the 4.5% of the older adult population who reside in a nursing home. 

There are several mobile VR platforms on the market, but let’s use the Samsung Gear VR as an example.  Samsung’s set-up consists of a headset that is affixed to the head with elastic straps. The weight of the headset can pull on the elastic straps, which can make it challenging for the headset to rest comfortably on the face of the older user.  It may not seem heavy for many people, but it can be bothersome for some older persons.  To help, the older adult can hold the headset up on their face as they view a virtual environment – but is that really enjoyable?  Something else to take into account regarding the headset is whether or not an older adult wears prescription glasses.  Although the Samsung Gear VR headset is large enough to fit around most prescription glasses, caution is advised when placing the headset. 

A critical aspect to consider for any VR user is safety.  Persons who are prone to motion sickness may experience cybersickness, which can cause dizziness, nausea, and fatigue when viewing VR.  Another safety aspect to consider is whether to sit or stand when using VR.  It is suggested that older adults remain seated in the event they become disoriented.  In addition, there is a greater risk of tripping or becoming imbalanced if standing.  One way to help provide movement for the older adult is to use a sturdy swivel chair with arms.  This allows the adult the opportunity to look around with a decreased chance of falling.  Plus, it helps if another person is there to ensure their safety.  Once the older adult finishes using the VR, it is advised that they remain seated for a while after the headset is removed.  This is to help ensure that they feel spatially oriented with their surroundings, especially if they are at risk for falls.

Finally, it is worth noting that there are ethical concerns to take into account when using VR with an older person.  Some VR apps allow a person to virtually visit locations, both familiar and new environments.  This can be a tremendous way to virtually experience these real environments, especially for those older persons who can no longer see or visit them in real life.  Although this may be delightful for some and promote a sense of reminiscence, it has the potential to cause emotional harm to others.  For example, what if they are viewing a familiar area or a city they have always wanted to visit, but know that they will never be able to do so?  Caution must be taken rather than assuming that the older adult will enjoy the VR content. 

Virtual reality has exciting potential for entertainment and therapeutic uses among older persons, especially those who have decreased health or mobility.  Nonetheless, it is important for researchers, technology developers, and health practitioners to consider critical aspects, such as those discussed above, to ensure that an older adult can use VR with ease, safety, and minimal risk to their wellbeing.

Article details

An Exploration of Virtual Reality Use and Application Among Older Adult Populations
Julie A. Brown, Ph.D.
First Published November 5, 2019 Research Article
DOI: 10.1177/2333721419885287
From Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine

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