Does VR Improve Symptoms of Anxiety & Depression for Older Adults?

Virtual reality (VR) has been investigated as a potential intervention for depression and anxiety in older adults. While research is still in its early stages, there is some evidence to suggest that VR can improve symptoms of depression and anxiety in older adults.

One recent study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research in 2020 investigated the use of VR in the treatment of anxiety and depression in older adults living in long-term care facilities. The study found that after a six-week VR intervention, participants had significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as improvements in quality of life.

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Another study published in the Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking in 2017 investigated the use of VR in the treatment of depression in older adults. The study found that after a four-week VR intervention, participants had significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety.

In 2018, a report in the Journal of Aging & Mental Health investigated the use of VR in the treatment of anxiety in older adults. The study found that after a four-week VR intervention, participants had significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety and improvements in quality of life.

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Overall, while research on the use of VR in the treatment of depression and anxiety in older adults is still limited, these studies suggest that it may be a promising intervention for this population. However, more research is needed to better understand the potential benefits and limitations of VR in treating these conditions in older adults.

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