Jim Holtshouse watches video through a Rendever virtual-reality headset at the Forum at Rancho San Antonio retirement community in Cupertino, Calif. on June 11, 2025.
Like many retirement communities, The Terraces in Los Gatos offers peace and comfort to older residents. Most no longer travel far or seek physical adventures. Yet through virtual reality, their sense of exploration is returning in surprising ways.
With a headset and a chair, residents in their 80s and 90s revisit oceans, cities, and skies. These shared VR moments are helping seniors form stronger real-life social connections.
Virtual Reality Brings the World Back
Caretakers at The Terraces regularly organize virtual reality sessions for residents. Within minutes, participants can explore Europe, dive underwater, or glide through the air.
The programs come from Rendever, a company bringing VR experiences to more than 800 senior communities across North America. Its goal focuses on cognition, memory, and meaningful social interaction.
Shared Experiences Spark Laughter
During one session, residents paddled their arms while swimming with dolphins. Laughter filled the room as they reacted together.
“We went underwater without holding our breath,” said 81-year-old Ginny Baird, smiling after the experience.
Another session featured a hot-air balloon ride. Gasps and nervous laughter echoed as residents reacted to the height.
Revisiting Childhood Memories
Virtual reality also allows seniors to return to places from their past. For many, it is the first visit in decades.
An 84-year-old resident, Sue Livingstone, took a virtual walk through her childhood neighborhood in Queens. The experience changed her perspective on VR.
“It isn’t just seeing it again,” she said. “It brings back memories you thought were gone.”
Encouraging Participation Through Curiosity
Staff members noticed that once one resident tries VR, others follow. Word spreads quickly through conversations and shared excitement.
Community life director Adrian Marshall says VR often replaces familiar games for the day.
“It becomes a conversation starter,” he explained. “It creates a human bridge between residents.”
Backed by Research and Funding
Rendever recently received nearly $4.5 million from the National Institutes of Health. The funding supports research on reducing senior isolation at home.
Studies suggest VR can improve cognitive engagement, memory recall, and emotional well-being when used thoughtfully. Experts stress moderation and purpose.
Experts Support Responsible Use
Neuropsychologist Katherine Dupuis warns against excessive screen time. Still, she sees strong benefits when VR encourages interaction.
“It creates shared wonder,” she said. “That connection matters deeply as people age.”
VR also simplifies technology use for seniors who struggle with smartphones. Headsets reduce buttons and confusion.
Changing Perceptions of Aging
Researcher Pallabi Bhowmick believes older adults are more open to technology than stereotypes suggest.
“They want tools that feel meaningful,” she said. “VR can reduce stress and strengthen family bonds.”
She added that VR also builds intergenerational connections, surprising younger relatives.
A Personal Mission Behind the Technology
Rendever CEO Kyle Rand co-founded the company after helping his grandmother cope with aging. He studied neuroengineering at Duke University.
“Our brains depend on social connection,” Rand explained. “VR helps people rediscover that together.”
Helping Those With Dementia
Other communities use VR to support residents with dementia. At the Forum, VR offers calming, familiar scenes.
Resident Bob Rogallo, who is largely nonverbal, smiled during a virtual hike through Glacier National Park.
His wife said the experience revived shared memories from decades of travel.
Joy Beyond the Headset
In another session, 93-year-old Almut Schultz laughed while attending a virtual concert. She later reached toward a playful puppy.
“That was quite a session,” she said, smiling as she returned to reality.
