Seniors are traveling more than ever before at the Glencroft Center for Modern Aging in Glendale, Arizona.
Glencroft’s new “Coastal Distancing” program uses virtual reality (VR) technology to transport residents to anywhere in the world. They can “climb” Machu Picchu, “ski” the swiss alps, take part in the 7th inning stretch at Wrigley Field, or visit the home where they grew up, all without leaving their home at Glencroft.
Vice President and Director of ZoeLife Operations Steve Heller oversees the program. “Once our resident is connected to safety leads, which remove any risk of falling, they are immersed in an alternate world of their choosing,” explained Heller, who is also an exercise physiologist. “Most will stretch, pull, jump or climb far beyond what they would try in the “real world,” which improves their balance, flexibility, motor skills, core strength, and their confidence. They don’t even realize what a workout they’re getting because they’re so engrossed in the experience.”
Glencroft’s VR program not only provides an entertaining “escape” for aging adults, it is frequently used as a physical therapy tool for residents diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, stroke survivors, and seniors with a variety of other physical and cognitive challenges.
Virtual reality is one of many programs available at Glencroft, which is “powered by ZoeLife,” a holistic approach to senior care and successful aging. For more information, contact Steve Heller at sheller@glencroft.com, or follow Glencroft on social media.
