At A Glance
VR can function as a shared social medium that strengthens connection between older adults, caregivers, and intergenerational partners. Evidence includes intergenerational VR storytelling programs, caregiver–care recipient dyadic use, and structured group-based immersive experiences (Appel et al., 2022, intergenerational VR study; Alizai et al., 2025, caregiver usability study).
Across the literature, VR is increasingly positioned not only as a therapeutic tool but as a relational platform that enables communication, storytelling, and shared meaning-making across generations and care relationships.
Key Research Findings
VR increases feelings of social connection and reduces isolation in older adults
Participants in intergenerational VR storytelling programs reported reduced feelings of isolation and increased perceived social connection following shared immersive storytelling experiences (Appel et al., 2022, intergenerational VR storytelling study).
Intergenerational VR fosters meaningful communication across age groups
Grandparent–grandchild VR workshops supported sustained interaction, collaboration, and storytelling, strengthening relational bonds through shared content creation and narrative exchange (Appel et al., 2022, intergenerational VR storytelling study).
Dyadic VR use enhances caregiver–care recipient bonding
Caregiver–dementia dyads reported positive shared experiences and increased emotional engagement during joint VR sessions, supporting relational connection in caregiving contexts (Alizai et al., 2025, caregiver usability study).
Shared VR experiences increase engagement beyond individual use
Dyadic and group VR formats facilitate conversation, reflection, and shared meaning-making during and after immersive experiences, extending engagement beyond the VR session itself (Alizai et al., 2025, caregiver usability study; Malik et al., 2025, caregiver–dyad VR study).
Why This Matters
Social isolation and reduced interpersonal connection are common challenges in long-term care and dementia care settings. These challenges can affect emotional wellbeing, engagement, and quality of life for both residents and families.
VR provides a structured way to create shared experiences where traditional communication may be limited. By enabling storytelling, co-experience, and joint reflection, VR supports meaningful relational interaction between residents, caregivers, and family members.
This positions caregiVR as a tool not only for individual therapeutic benefit, but also for strengthening relationships and reducing loneliness through shared immersive experiences across generations and care contexts.
Our Publications
Intergenerational VR Storytelling Study (2022)
Caregiver Usability Study (2025)
Caregiver–Dyad VR Study (2025)