EFFECTS OF AN IMMERSIVE VIRTUAL REALITY TAI CHI INTERVENTION ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF OLDER ADULTS
2024

Virtual Reality Tai Chi for Older Adults' Mental Health

Sample size: 18 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Kim Jaehyun, Lobos Marcos Ardon, Park Serim, Kim Richard, Seo Jinsil, Kim Junhyoung

Primary Institution: East Carolina University

Hypothesis

Can an immersive virtual reality Tai Chi intervention improve the mental health of older adults?

Conclusion

The immersive virtual reality Tai Chi program effectively reduces stress and depressive symptoms in older adults.

Supporting Evidence

  • Significant reductions in depressive symptoms were observed after participation.
  • Perceived stress levels were significantly decreased after participation.
  • Participants reported high usability scores for the IVTC program.

Takeaway

Older adults can feel less sad and stressed by doing Tai Chi in virtual reality.

Methodology

Eighteen older adults participated in eight 15-minute IVTC sessions and completed surveys before and after the program.

Participant Demographics

Older adults from senior centers in North Carolina, United States.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.3961

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