At NeuronsVR, we are passionate about creating immersive virtual reality therapy experiences that transcend boundaries and reconnect individuals with their cherished memories. Our client at Milpara Residential Care Home in Rostrevor, South Australia, took one of their residents named Josie, on an incredible journey to her hometown in Italy using our specialised virtual reality headset.
Josie’s Italian Roots
Josie was born in Italy, where she lived until the age of nine, when her family moved to Adelaide. Despite the distance and the passing years, Italy has always held a special place in Josie’s heart, filled with fond memories and beloved family members.
Embracing Heritage and Community
Living at Milpara, a community with a large Italian population, Josie’s love for her heritage is evident in her daily life. Despite her Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Josie is deeply rooted in Italian culture and enjoys sharing stories about her homeland and passion for Italian food and cooking.
Building Shared Experiences through Virtual Reality
In the video included in this post, you can see the joy and nostalgia on Josie’s face as she recounts her childhood experiences in Italy. Virtual reality therapy experience has not only allowed her to vividly recall specific events but also brought her closer to her fellow Italian residents at Milpara.
With Italian events already a staple at the residential care home, the introduction of NeuronsVR virtual reality experiences has taken these cultural activities to the next level. After virtual reality sessions, Josie and her fellow residents often reminisce about their shared heritage, creating a sense of community and belonging. These sessions have become a treasured part of their routine, and Josie’s ability to articulate her memories in such detail has amazed everyone around her.
The Magic of NeuronsVR Therapy through the use of Virtual Reality
At NeuronsVR, we believe in enhancing lives through the power of therapy through the use of virtual reality. Our innovative headsets and armchair travel virtual reality experiences have enabled Josie and other residents to “travel” back to their hometowns or beloved travel destinations, offering them an immersive experience that has reignited their memories with astonishing clarity.
Senior Team Leader at Milpara, Taylor, commented that “Josie reminisces about her time living in Italy almost daily, but the Virtual Reality therapy has opened her eyes and made her able to vocalise events and things more specifically which is just amazing”.
What Research Says About Virtual Reality and Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Cognitive Decline
Research has shown that virtual reality can significantly benefit people living with Alzheimer’s, dementia and cognitive decline. Virtual reality has been found to help stimulate memories, reduce agitation, and improve mood among individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease. By providing a safe and controlled environment, virtual reality allows users to explore familiar settings and engage with meaningful activities, leading to improved overall well-being.
At NeuronsVR, we are dedicated to exploring innovative ways to enrich lives and foster connections. Josie’s story is a testament to the profound impact of virtual reality in rekindling old memories and forging new relationships. We hope you’ve loved recounting Josie’s journey back to Italy, one virtual step at a time just as much as we have.
Ready to see where NeuronsVR could take your residents?
Contact our team today and book in for a free demonstration. With offices in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide, our library of approved and tailored therapy programs empower occupational therapists, registered nurses, and carers across Australia to enhance resident independence, well-being, dignity, and purpose, providing personalised experiences that bring joy and fulfillment.
References:
Appel, L., Ali, S., Narag, T., Mozeson, K., Pasat, Z., Orchanian-Cheff, A., & Campos, J. L. (2021). Virtual reality to promote well-being in persons with dementia: A scoping review. Journal of Rehabilitation Assistive Technologies Engineering, 8, 20556683211053952. https://doi.org/10.1177/20556683211053952