Virtual Reality for Older Adults? Christian Health Leads the Way

Christian Health has introduced innovative virtual reality (VR) technology into its programming for older adult residents and patients to help strengthen their cognitive and physical skills and improve caregiver-resident relationships. The equipment was unveiled and tested on Wednesday at a kick-off event on the expansive Wyckoff campus.

The nonprofit health care organization is slated to receive eight (8) VR headsets as part of a Great American Elderverse grant through Mynd Immersive – a leading provider of Immersive Digital Therapeutics for older adults. Christian Health team members will familiarize resident headset users with a growing library of more than 250 immersive experiences and interactive therapy content. The goal is to enhance recreational, reminiscence, and distraction therapy experiences and interactive modules designed to improve occupational, physical, and speech therapy outcomes.

“Christian Health continually strives to provide high-quality care and access to cutting-edge technology and other means to benefit our residents and patients,” said Douglas A. Struyk, CPA, LNHA, Christian Health CEO. “It is an honor to be the first New Jersey-based organization to receive this technology grant, which will advance our commitment to foster health, healing, and wellness in the lives of those we serve.”

Using VR equipment will help older adults to:

• Strengthen cognitive and physical skills, such as coordination, range of motion, kinesthetic awareness, and physical condition
• Engage in consistent physical therapy exercises without distractions
• Virtually visit historical sites, museums, or other locations in the world that they are curious about
• Practice daily activities, such as navigating homes, making coffee, locating and purchasing items at a grocery store, organizing misplaced household items, and identifying sounds

“From a mental health perspective, artificial intelligence (AI), specifically Mynd Immersive, can decrease feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a lack of connectedness, all now considered national epidemics,” said Alexis Totaro, MSN, RN, WHNP-c, CARN-AP, Christian Health Vice President/Administrator of Mental Health Services and Chief Nurse Executive. “AI also provides individuals, especially older adults, with the opportunity to connect with people and places they might not have otherwise been able to experience.” The initial launch was made possible by the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation’s generous support to the CTA Foundation.

Equipment access will be provided to residents and patients of Christian Health’s long-term care, memory care, and rehabilitation programs, including Longview, Heritage Manor, and Bolger Short Rehab. 

“We are humbled by and grateful for the opportunity to be the first flagship recipient in New Jersey of The Great American Elderverse program,” said Sue Kelly, Director of Christian Health Foundation. “This philanthropic program is such a blessing for those we serve at Christian Health. We are so inspired by the incredible impact that this innovative technology can create, elevating our care delivery and improving the quality of life for our residents and patients.”

“Science is showing this technology is having a profound impact with older adults across mental, physical, cognitive and spiritual health,” said Chris Brickler, CEO and Co-founder of Mynd Immersive. “We are honored to partner with Christian Health of New Jersey to bring the Great American Elderverse to their residents and patients.”

For more information about Christian Health, visit ChristianHealthnNJ.org.

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About Christian Health
Since 1911, Christian Health’s mission has been to offer a listening ear, a helpful hand, and steady, supportive guidance throughout an individual’s wellness journey. As a nonprofit organization founded on the belief that everyone has the right to exceptional care, we continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our community. Christian Health’s comprehensive continuum of mental health services, communities for older adults, and rehabilitation services foster physical health and nourish the spirit. Caring is not simply what we do; it is who we are.

Media Contact:
Christian Health
Kelly Tanis
(201) 848-5921
Media@ChristianHealthNJ.org