VR IN SOCIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY: OPPORTUNITIES AND RISKS

Abstract

The article presents the results of an empirical study on the opportunities of introducing virtual reality technologies into social services for the elderly conducted by the authors in 2019-2020. The authors indicate that the need to implement VR technology is determined by the changes in the worldview, lifestyle, and the role of elderly people in modern society. The authors conducted an observation and subsequent interviewing of social service clients who attended the “Virtual Tourism” classes. The study demonstrates a positive impact on the psycho-emotional state and physical wellbeing of the elderly. However, the authors also indicate possible risks to vision associated with heavy eye strain in the process of using VR glasses.