Research

Virtual reality (VR) systems provide an immersive and engaging experience that give users the realistic impression of being present in a context or situation outside their home, alone or with others. To date, few studies have examined usability and acceptance of VR applications or their efficacy with older adults or examined social or cognitive engagement applications. The purpose of this project is to evaluate and fill in crucial gaps in knowledge to ensure that individuals of all ages can use and benefit from emerging technologies to support important outcomes related to health, well-being, and cognition. The goal is to enable older adults to benefit from VR in their homes.  We will first examine usability and acceptance of VR applications by older adults to identify preferences for applications within the targeted four domains of the planned VRT CAST program: training and new learning, cultural opportunities, social support, and leisure opportunities.