Innovative care through the VRCARE Project
The EU-funded VRCARE project explores how virtual reality (VR) can be used as a powerful tool to improve quality of life in elderly care. The project brings together partners from several European countries to develop inclusive and user-friendly VR solutions that promote activation, presence, and emotional well-being among elderly in elderly care. By combining a holistically pedagogical approach, research, technological development, and practical application, VRCARE aims to create sustainable models for integrating VR into care environments.
VR as a response to challenges in Elderly Care
As elderly care faces growing challenges, such as staff shortages, loneliness among older adults, and the need for meaningful activities, interest in virtual reality as an innovative tool is increasing. Research and practical projects show that VR headsets can offer older people stimulation, interaction, and a sense of presence, contributing to improved quality of life.
Lauri Hiltunen (2020) demonstrates in his bachelor’s thesis that VR and augmented reality (AR) can enhance older adults’ physical and cognitive abilities. Through VR-based training programs, improvements have been seen in balance, motor skills, and memory. At the same time, the technology offers emotional stimulation through reminiscence experiences, allowing older adults to revisit places from their childhood or earlier life. These experiences have shown a positive impact on long-term memory and visuospatial ability, crucial for independence and well-being.
The VR CARE project will implement VR solutions in nursing homes and dementia care facilities, using the technology to reduce anxiety and agitation, improve communication between residents and staff, and bring joy and variety to daily life. Through virtual travel, nature experiences, and music, older adults will gain access to experiences that would otherwise be impossible due to physical limitations or institutional settings (VR CARE Project, 2023).
In Finland, the LähiVerkko project has conducted VR workshops in care homes and libraries, where older adults had the opportunity to try VR headsets in a safe environment. Participants described the experiences as highly engaging and immersive. One woman shared that she recognized places in Paris and that memories came alive, while another described the feeling of being in a nature documentary, but more real (Grönholm & Marttinen, 2018). These experiences show us working in VRCARE that VR is not just a technical innovation, but a medium for emotions, memories, and human connection.
Research also revealed that care centers are curious and eager to participate in digital development, even though many lack personal devices. Therefore, it is important to offer shared resources and guidance, especially in care homes and care settings. Participants expressed a need for support during initial use, highlighting the importance of pedagogical introduction and accessible technology.
Despite the positive effects, some challenges remain. VR sickness, nausea during use, can occur, especially with simpler headsets. Acceptance of technology requires introduction and support, particularly for those without prior experience. Individuals with dementia may experience confusion, requiring careful selection of calm, familiar environments. These challenges can be addressed through tailored solutions, such as ergonomic headsets, clear interfaces, and content specifically designed for older users (Hiltunen, 2020; Grönholm & Marttinen, 2018).
The future of elderly care with VRCARE
The VRCARE project aims to take the next step in developing VR solutions for elderly care, from individual pilot projects to broader implementation in care environments. Building on insights from previous research and practical experiences, as presented in this article, the project seeks to create sustainable models for integrating VR into everyday life in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
The goal is to offer elderly who risk institutionalisation access to experiences that stimulate both body and mind, enhance the sense of presence, and contribute to dignified and joyful aging. Virtual reality is not just technology, it is a tool for human connection, memory stimulation, and improved quality of life.
