Travelling to new places shouldn’t stop because of mobility challenges. For residents at Extendicare, virtual reality is offering new ways to explore, connect and rediscover a sense of wonder.
Through the Rendever virtual reality program, residents can take part in guided 360-degree experiences that bring far-flung destinations from around the world directly to them. From swimming alongside colourful fish at the Great Barrier Reef to exploring cities and natural landscapes in Thailand, technology offers immersive journeys without leaving the home.
For Julia, a resident at Extendicare Peterborough, who loved to travel before a stroke made mobility more difficult, the experience has been especially impactful. “You don’t understand how real it’s going to be until you put those goggles on,” she shares.
The sessions run multiple times a month and are designed to be shared experiences, encouraging conversation and connection among residents and team members. In addition to travel, residents can revisit familiar places, including childhood neighbourhoods, or enjoy calming environments that support relaxation and well-being.
The program has also created new opportunities for connection between residents and team members at Extendicare. “Learning a little bit about them and what they’re interested in, and being able to take them right there is such a great experience, and they always leave feeling happy about it,” shares Jayme, the Resident Program Manager at Extendicare Peterborough.
As Julia and her fellow residents look ahead to their next virtual adventure, with Egyptian pyramids at the top of the list, these experiences reflect a simple but powerful idea: with the right tools and thoughtful programming, new ways to explore and connect are possible at every stage of life.
This program was recently highlighted in a Global News feature. View the full segment here.