Beyond the Walls: Comparison of Three Extended Reality Technologies Giving Care Home Residents Access to Tourism and Cultural Content for Health and Wellbeing

Previous research into extended reality (XR) technologies for older adults in residential care was limited. We explored use of three XR technologies giving virtual access to a unique UK visitor centre (Eden Project). Three care homes were able to use over three months either (i) Virtual Reality (VR) headsets, (ii) a tablet option or (iii) a projector and screen. While (i) provided fully immersive VR, both (ii, iii) provided augmented reality content. The participants were 22 residents (mean age 86) and 5 staff. Interview and diary data suggested all three XR technologies provided meaningful activities, with enhanced access to nature experiences, increased conversation, reminiscence, calming behavioural escalations and education. Group viewing of the projector was felt beneficial for group interaction and staff resources but was too passive compared to VR or tablet. Some combination of the projector communal experience with the interactivity of VR and tablets is needed. However, in a sector with major workloads and staff shortages, implementation is problematic.