A new $3.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health is helping UC Santa Barbara scholars reimagine how virtual reality can support older adults who are aging at home — and the family members and professionals who care for them.
“Our goal has always been to figure out how technology can help older adults thrive, despite cognitive and physical challenges,” said communication professor Tamara Afifi, who is co-leading the project with psychological and brain sciences professor Nancy Collins.
“Virtual reality isn’t meant to replace relationships — it’s a tool for relationship maintenance and social bonding,” Afifi said.
The project builds on nearly a decade of work with Rendever, a VR company that designs lightweight, cord-free headsets and shared experiences specifically for older adults…