Crossing the digital frontier: are older adults ready for virtual reality workouts?

• Main Authors: André Ramalho (Author), Pedro Duarte-Mendes (Author), Rui Paulo (Author), João Serrano (Author), João Petrica (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A., 2024-02-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 2296-2565; 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1324004
• Keywords: virtual reality; aging; physical activity; cognition; emotions; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: Frontiers in Public Health, Vol 12 (2024)

In the dynamic web of our digital age, virtual reality (VR) is crystallizing as a promising medium for promoting physical activity in older adults, overcoming age-old barriers. This perspective article explores the intricate synergy between VR and physical activity in older adults and highlights the many challenges of aging within a virtual environment. While VR heralds the potential for multisensory interaction and cognitive enhancement, a thorough assessment of its impact is paramount. The reach of VR goes beyond immediate applications and permeates the emotional and psychological realms of the human journey. Such an exploration requires a comprehensive perspective that goes beyond a purely technical assessment. The aim of this article is not to present clear-cut solutions, but to encourage reflection on the diverse impact of VR on our aging population. We argue for a future in which technology complements, rather than eclipses, the depth of human experience.