Exploring the Strengths and Weaknesses of Virtual Reality Systems in Supporting Health and Wellbeing of the Elderly (Research Paper Sample)

Exploring the Strengths and Weaknesses of Virtual Reality Systems in Supporting Health and Wellbeing of the Elderly
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Abstract
Virtual reality systems are mainly used in video games, advertisements and in entertainment industry. However, the technology is being adopted in promoting health habits such as physical exercises and health education. This research was conducted to identify the strengths and weaknesses of using virtual reality systems to support wellbeing and health of the elderly. This research was of interest due to the high rising number of elderly and the high number of reported falls among the elderly. The research aimed at finding out how virtual reality systems have led to the reduction of such cases by improving health and wellbeing of the elderly. The research also assessed the weaknesses that are associated with the use of virtual reality. The study used peer reviewed studies conducted between 2013 and 2018 to achieve its objectives. This research identified the strengths of virtual reality systems as: improved muscle strength, increases concentration and motivation, it creates joy and fun, it is safer way of exercising compared to conventional training, and it is promotes postural control and sensory reaction. The weaknesses of virtual reality were identified as being expensive, minor injuries such as sore muscles, lack of realism and motion sickness.
List of Figures
TOC \h \z \c "Figure" Figure 1: Virtual reality system components.. PAGEREF _Toc509333797 \h 11
List of Tables
TOC \h \z \c "Table" Table 1: Strengths and benefits of using virtual reality systems PAGEREF _Toc509333753 \h 26
Table 2: Weaknesses associated with the use of virtual reality systems PAGEREF _Toc509333754 \h 28
Exploring the Strengths and Weaknesses of Virtual Reality Systems in Supporting Health and Wellbeing of the Elderly
Virtual reality systems are used in many fields especially in video games and advertisements but they are slowly being introduced to promote health and wellbeing of the elderly (Robinson, MacDonald, & Broadbent, 2014). The topic is of research interest because of the effects of the use of virtual reality in supporting health are unknown. The technology is being used as many elderly people do not have the strength to exercise or engage in rigorous physical activities such as jogging which might expose them to lifestyle diseases. A descriptive qualitative research methodology will be employed to collect data from previous research materials and other archive data related to virtual reality. The research will focus on how virtual reality systems can be improved to support the health and wellbeing of the elderly.