Immersive virtual reality exergames to promote the health and well-being of older adults: a mixed methods feasibility study

As life expectancy continues to increase globally, so does the number of age-related physical, mental, and social challenges. Despite strong evidence supporting the physical and mental health benefits of physical activity, few older adults meet the recommended physical activity levels. Older adults' physical inactivity has been further worsened with the public health restrictions, including the closure of exercise facilities, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the COVID-19 pandemic provided an opportunity to use innovative technologies in the creating of at home exercise opportunities for older adults. My doctoral research investigates how technology can increase older adults' physical activity at home, especially when access to in-person exercise programs and support is limited. To do so, I use both quantitative and qualitative methods to explore how virtual reality games can encourage at-home physical activity in older adults and benefit their health and well-being. The result of my research will provide critical information on developing and evaluating innovative technological strategies for promoting older adults' physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.