Co-create Virtual Reality in Long Term Care

What is the purpose of this study?

To collaboratively develop a Virtual Reality Immersive Program in partnership with older adults, individuals who are living with dementia, their care partners, staff, and decision-makers in long-term care.

What is Virtual Reality (VR)?

Virtual Reality is a simulated 3D environment that allows you to explore, interact, and experience different surroundings

Why are we doing this project?

Previous studies highlight the potential of virtual immersive experiences to bring joy and promote the well-being of individuals living with dementia
To implement Collaborative Action Research (CAR) and develop a sustainable and inclusive health tech intervention

What are the goals of the VIP project?

Alleviate feelings of loneliness and enhance social connection among individuals with dementia
Examine the positive outcomes and challenges encountered by engaging residents, families, clinical staff, and leaders in the co-creation process
Create a person-centred, needs-driven, accessible, adaptive, and sustainable program specifically tailored for individuals with dementia in long-term care settings

Who is engaged in the VIP project?

The Virtual reality Immersive Program (VIP) project engages residents, families, clinical staff, and leaders in participatory planning. Using human-centred design, the project ensures accessibility, adaptability, and sustainability for diverse individuals living with dementia.

An interdisciplinary, integrated approach engages users, staff, patient and family partners, trainees, and researchers, merging expertise for impactful outcomes.

The Team

Principal Investigator: Dr. Lillian Hung

Co-Investigators: Dr. Ben Mortenson, Dr. Angelica Lim

Project Coordinator: Please contact Joey Wong at joey.wong@ubc.ca if you have any questions/interest.

Research Assistant: Mary Van. You may contact Mary Van at mary.van@ubc.ca.

Current Team Members: Albin Soni, Bonnie Huynh, Christine Wallsworth, Jamie Lam, Janna Zeid, Jim Mann, Joelle Rivera, Kara Yeh, Karen Wong, Kayla Wen, Lily Ren, Lily Wong, Sena Kholmatov, Shilam Patel, Sonia Tang, and Sungyou Park