Virtual Reality and the Elderly: Immersive Experiences for Quality of Life

The ageing population faces numerous challenges, such as social isolation, reduced mobility, and cognitive decline, all of which significantly diminish their quality of life (QoL). This study explores the potential of virtual reality (VR) technology as an innovative tool to enhance the QoL of elderly individuals in Malaysia. Using a qualitative approach, the research involved VR tryout sessions and semi-structured interviews with ten participants aged 65–77 from an elderly care centre (in Malay – Rumah Seri Kenangan ) in Perak, Malaysia. Participants were exposed to VR experiences, including sports games and meditation applications, designed to stimulate cognitive and physical functions. The findings revealed notable improvements in participants’ mood, mobility, and cognitive focus, with the majority reporting a heightened sense of well-being following the VR sessions. However, several barriers were identified, including usability challenges, limitations in grip strength, and the need for culturally and linguistically localised content. These insights underscore the potential of VR technology as a therapeutic tool in elder care, while emphasising the importance of user-friendly design, clear usability guidelines, and enhanced accessibility to ensure broader adoption and effectiveness.