Virtual reality sessions to promote subjective well-being of institutionalized older adults: Feedback from care staff

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of virtual reality sessions (including viewing a 360° personalized video followed by a time interaction) on subjective well-being, and to control the activation of reminiscence following the video, from the point of view of the care staff. Additionally, the study aimed to gather care staff feedback regarding the implementation and use of VR in residential aged care facilities.

We used a qualitative method with semi-structured interviews. We conducted interviews between March and August 2023 with care staff from 31 institutions that supervised VR sessions with older adults. The voices were recorded, transcribed and analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis.

Fifty-two care staff members were interviewed. Two themes were developed: Subjective well-being and reminiscence, and Utilization of the VR device in institutions. Regarding the first theme, results showed a beneficial effect of VR sessions on the three dimensions of subjective well-being. Care staff also observed activation of the reminiscence. In the second theme, care staff reported that the device was well-supported by older adults and found it useful both as a distraction and for therapeutic purposes. Finally, care staff mentioned several advantages and disadvantages linked to use of the device in their institution.

VR sessions seem to be a potential alternative means of promoting the subjective well-being of institutionalized older adults. The care staff considered the device useful and mentioned several advantages, and a few obstacles to be considered before equipping the institutional structures.