Gulf Coast Village introduces virtual reality memory support program at Palmview
CAPE CORAL, Fla. (Nov. 27, 2018) – Residents of Palmview, an assisted living and memory support residence in Cape Coral, will now have access to a virtual reality program designed to combat the effects of memory loss and dementia, announced Gulf Coast Village. Utilizing virtual reality technology, Palmview has implemented a new program that is geared to spark positive cognitive results for those with various forms of memory loss, creating pleasant and meaningful sensory experiences, reducing anxiety, improving spatial awareness and providing a unique cognitive exercise.
A technique growing in popularity, the use of virtual reality can help boost levels of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter that is typically lower for seniors with forms of memory loss, like Alzheimer’s. Incorporating Gulf Coast Village’s multi-pronged approach to care, which encompasses seven dimensions of wellness including physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, vocational and environmental aspects, the latest memory support program offered within the Palmview community explores how the recreational use of this technology can serve as a therapeutic activity for residents.
A peaceful beachfront view, a rolling countryside or a lively music concert are just some of the settings that residents can encounter via the virtual reality program. With Palmview’s medical professionals and nursing staff working in conjunction with each resident’s family, the program pulls from residents’ past experiences or individual preferences in order to create a virtual reality environment that helps prompt positive emotional responses.
Residents simply don a pair of virtual reality goggles and settle in for a five to 20-minute display of nature scenes, an animated boat ride through the Grand Canyon, or interactive arcade experience using hand controls, during which residents are closely monitored. Positive experiences using this technology could result in welcome residual effects, including improved sleep patterns, mood, appetite, adherence to medication regimens and improved participation in daily living activities, such as eating, bathing or dressing.
“We are pleased to begin implementing the use of virtual reality within the Palmview community, utilizing the latest technologies to provide personalized memory care support for each individual,” said Kevin Ahmadi, area director of operations for Volunteers of America. “We are committed to implementing immersive, engaging strategies here at Palmview, and look forward to seeing the many ways that this program will enhance overall quality of life for our residents.”
To learn more about the memory support program, call our Memory Support Manager at 239-500-1433.
About Palmview
Palmview is part of the Gulf Coast Village community, a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that offers the full continuum of care for adults over 62, encompassing independent living, assisted living, specialized memory support, skilled nursing, outpatient services and home health care. Inspired from the natural elements of the Florida coastline, the new assisted living and memory care residences at Gulf Coast Village is designed as a place where residents can discover a mix of engaging opportunities, encouraging an active lifestyle and enriching their daily experience. The new state-of-the-art, 130,980-square-foot residence is located on the Gulf Coast Village campus at 1433 Santa Barbara Blvd. in Cape Coral. For more information about Palmview, visit www.gulfcoastvillage.com or call Laura Borror, senior living counselor for Palmview at 239-217-4224.
