Rendever, a provider of virtual reality (VR) products for the ageing population has teamed up with US-based senior living services provider RiverSpring Living to use VR to help reintegrate the elderly into their homes after rehabilitation stays.
With videos and images taken of the home environment and uploaded to the Rendever platform, RiverSpring uses VR to aid planning, refamiliarise people with their homes and introduce any changes, such as new railings or large medical equipment, via virtual walkthroughs.
According to a clinical trial that assessed falls after hospital discharge, up to 40% of older adults experience a fall within 6 months of leaving hospital or rehabilitation. Studies show that with proper planning this figure could be reduced.
Historically, the discharge planning procedure included a risk assessment to ensure patients could maintain their own health outside of the hospital setting and perform activities of daily living. The use of VR will give a more realistic, immersive experience of what the patient will encounter.
US-based Rendever also uses its platform to bring RiverSpring residents closer to family events that they would not otherwise be able to attend. The events, such as weddings or family parties, are recorded and uploaded to the Rendever platform to provide an immersive experience and allow moments to be shared with families.
“Virtual reality is a powerful tool that opens so many doors in the healthcare journey,” said Rendever CEO Kyle Rand.
“We’re seeing lives being changed for the better with this technology in so many ways. Our collaboration with RiverSpring is giving older adults the opportunity to transition safely and live independently at home once again.”
Medical Device Network recently reported on the use of VR and other technologies for the ageing population, stating that it benefits older adults, promotes a healthy lifestyle with health-related gaming, maintains social contact via digital interfaces, supports rehabilitation, and aids in everyday life tasks.
According to a report by GlobalData, the VR market is currently valued at $12.3 billion and is expected to be worth $51.5 billion by 2030.
