Virtual reality enhances elders well-being
Wednesday 28 February 2018
655 Visit
Approaches to Cognitive Stimulation in the Prevention of Dementia” is a report by gerontologists at Loughborough University (UK) and German Sports University Cologne. They analyzed studies of cognitive intervention strategies for people with mild memory loss or moderate dementia. They concluded that the practice of cognitive stimulation has 3 fundamental goals, each involving multiple strategies:
- educational training, which teaches people who develop problems about their symptoms, such as onset and duration of memory decline, and ways to cope.
- functional memory improvement, including memory aids (calendars, memory books, etc.), reality orientation (repeated presentation of name, date, time, place, weather, other basic info), and method of loci (mnemonic system for linking an item with a place).
- cognitive functioning techniques, exercising ability to memorize, calculate, perceive, and react, including reminiscence therapy, a clinical intervention that evokes discussion of positive nostalgic experiences, increases motivation and focus, and fosters self-worth, psychological resilience and improved well-being.
Yes, there’s a scientific reason that our elders love to tell and re-tell old stories — it gives them pleasure. Recalling and sharing life experiences produces the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a role in human motion and emotion. Low dopamine levels lead to lack of motivation, fatigue, addictive behavior, mood swings, and memory loss. Hence, increasing dopamine levels likely reduces memory loss.
And if an elder is struggling with short-term memory loss (peoples’ names, meals eaten), the ability to recall and share long-term memories is a gift.
Virtual reality-based cognitive rehabilitation systems support procedures for mitigating behavioral and psychological symptoms of patients having mild cognitive impairment and early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
It’s exciting to bring virtual reality-based experiences to our elders, and all people who no longer freely have access to the outside stimuli that normally would enhance motivation and focus. These are the people for whom virtual reality applications can provide excitement and wonder that would otherwise be impossible for them to experience.
Medical Simulators
Virtual Reality Department
Virtual Reality
SiMedix
