Memory care facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive impairments; however, residents can sometimes feel isolated and disconnected from the outside world.

Virtual reality (VR) tours offer an innovative solution to help seniors in memory care explore new destinations and engage in enriching experiences right from the comfort of their community.

See also: Lifestyle Activities That Seniors With Alzheimer’s Can Benefit From

Why Virtual Tours Benefit Memory Care Residents

Virtual tours utilize VR headsets to transport users to 3D simulated environments, making them feel immersed in real-world locations. For memory care residents, these virtual experiences provide a variety of benefits:

• Cognitive stimulation: Interacting with new environments keeps the mind active and engaged. VR tours can help slow cognitive decline.
• Reminiscence therapy: Tours of familiar places can trigger positive memories and emotions, boosting mood and self-esteem.
• Sense of freedom: VR allows residents to travel the world virtually from their facility. This gives a sense of independence and adventure.
• Socialization: Tours can be enjoyed as a group activity, promoting social engagement.
• Stress relief: Immersive natural environments lower anxiety and improve relaxation.

With VR, the possibilities for virtual experiences are endless. Let’s look at some of the top tour options for memory care residents.

Virtual Tours of Favorite Destinations

VR tours are a great opportunity for seniors to revisit treasured locations from their past. Destinations might include:

• Childhood homes: Tour homes where residents grew up for a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
• Honeymoon spots: Relive romantic honeymoons and anniversaries from earlier in life.
• Previous travel locations: Return to favorite vacation destinations around the world.
• Home countries: For residents who immigrated to the US, explore their homeland cities and landscapes.
• Historical sites: Tour monuments, museums, and places of cultural significance.

Reexperiencing meaningful places through VR often brings joy and comfort to memory care residents.

Experience Breathtaking Natural Wonders and Thrilling Cultural Adventures

VR eco tours let residents immerse themselves in awe-inspiring natural landscapes like Yellowstone’s geysers, Caribbean beaches, mountain peaks, redwood forests, and vibrant underwater reefs. These tranquil sensory experiences transport residents out of the care facility and into the peaceful wilderness.

For an extra dose of excitement, VR can also deliver adventurous cultural experiences like touring world landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, attending a concert at Carnegie Hall, watching a game at Yankee Stadium, going on an African safari to see wildlife up close, and even blasting off into space to gaze at stars and planets.

The possibilities are endless for using VR to show residents natural wonders across the globe and the thrill of faraway cultures and adventures.

The Whole World Awaits Your Residents

Virtual tours require basic VR equipment—a headset, headphones, and a smartphone or controller. Many tours are free or low-cost through apps like Google Expeditions. Facilities simply need to purchase the gear and set aside space for the activity. Consider the following tips:

• Choose tours tailored to residents’ interests and abilities. Prioritize destinations they long to experience.
• Schedule your sessions regularly as part of the activity calendar. Consistency helps make it a rewarding habit.
• Help residents with gear and guide them through the experience—getting comfortable with VR may take practice.
• Invite residents to share memories and reflections after tours to foster discussion.

At Dellwood Gardens, we understand the importance of mentally and emotionally stimulating our residents. That’s why we’re constantly exploring innovative ways to enhance their quality of life. Schedule a personalized tour to explore our amenities and activities. Contact us today.