Every year, many people rely on vacations to decompress, relax, and take a step back from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives. However, as we age, it becomes increasingly difficult to travel for myriad reasons, including chronic pain, mobility issues, and other health concerns.
Fortunately, strides in technology have opened the gates back up in terms of being able to see the world, regardless of our age or physical proximity. Virtual reality (VR) travel for seniors allows for exciting experiences and the ability to visit new places from the comfort of your own home or living community. Thanks to innovative technology, older adults can still travel the world — virtually, and at any time.
At Wesley Enhanced Living, our team is skilled at assisting our residents make their vacation dreams come true! With this approach to travel, we’ve been able to give residents throughout our independent living communities the opportunity to virtually visit places like Walt Disney World, Italy, and beyond!
Benefits of Virtual Reality Vacations for Senior Citizens
Virtual reality travel for seniors can improve quality of life through significant health and wellness benefits and provide wonderful, memorable experiences that will be cherished for years to come. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of virtual reality travel for seniors:
Visit New and Familiar Places
Virtual reality doesn’t only allow seniors to visit places that are on their bucket list; it can transport them to places that are meaningful to them. Through combined technologies of virtual reality and Google Maps, it feels like you are physically there! Additionally, VR travel isn’t bound by locations just anyone can visit. From truly original composited environments to outer space itself, travel can take on a whole new meaning!
Avoid Physical Aches and Pains Associated With Travel
VR experiences allow seniors to take a break from their chronic pain and instead focus their attention on a vacation to exotic destinations like Egypt, Mexico, or China — without any physical discomfort from travel. Therefore, seniors with mobility issues can enjoy traveling again without the worry of arthritis or joint-related injuries and strains.
This alleviation from physical aches and pains goes beyond seniors being able to be fully immersed in a virtual environment to take in breathtaking views or get a feel of another culture; it lets them participate in activities they would otherwise not be able to. Hiking, roller coasters, ziplining — these and more are all fair game again!
Reduce Social Isolation
For older adults, loneliness and social isolation can put them at a higher risk for physical and mental conditions. However, with the emergence of virtual reality travel for seniors, there is a new way to combat these illnesses. VR paves the way to immersive ecosystems that aren’t exclusive to one person amidst a virtual landscape; “multiplayer”-type spaces connect seniors with friends and family members. What was once barred by cost, time, or mobility constraints can now be replicated virtually; this works to reduce loneliness, help stay in touch with loved ones, and empower seniors everywhere.
Keeps the Brain Active
As we grow older, it’s typical to experience some age-related forgetfulness. However, many older adults experience significant brain changes that can result in significant memory loss. VR can help improve the cognitive health in older adults. From learning and retaining new information to strengthening neural connectors that support sensory, motor, and cognitive skills, virtual reality travel for seniors isn’t just a “getaway” — it provides support and groundedness.
Ease Anxiety and Depression
Virtual reality travel for seniors goes above and beyond the spectacle of a dream vacation — it can work wonders for the mental health of seniors as well. The sensory experience generated by VR can feel so real that your mood can improve significantly! Older adults that cannot physically travel much and are limited to the surroundings of their home due to health-related issues can benefit tremendously from virtual reality vacations and VR programs at large by decreasing anxiety and depression.
Promotes Physical Movement
Virtual reality can be enjoyed sitting still, sure — but there is ample opportunity for seniors utilizing VR for travel to get moving, too! Since virtual reality can be intrinsically interactive, many older adults can experience improved physical health due to extra movement — maybe without them even realizing it!
Fulfill the Virtual Vacation of Your Dreams at Wesley Enhanced Living
With resources and programs in place at Wesley Enhanced Living Upper Moreland, our staff can bring exciting places like Egypt, Walt Disney World, Yellowstone National Park, Sicily, and much more to our residents through virtual reality. We are also able to provide traditional cuisine and themed entertainment as an added bonus to enhance your experience! Choose from our independent living, personal care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing options and discover the endless opportunities that await you in our communities.
For more information about our senior living options in Willow Grove, Philadelphia, or the surrounding regions, contact us today!
Wesley Enhanced Living provides high-quality senior retirement communities for you or your loved ones. Contact one of our Philadelphia area locations and find out why our seniors love where they live. Our staff is happy to discuss your senior’s needs or your own and inform you of our range of services. Virtual tours are now available. Call us today for more information.
