An Emotion-Adaptive VR Experience for Recreational Use in Eldercare
Adhityan Raja (TU Delft - Knowledge and Intelligence Design)
Christina Schneegass (TU Delft - Human Technology Relations)
Evangelos Niforatos (TU Delft - Knowledge and Intelligence Design)
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Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) technology provides the elderly, and people with dementia, the opportunity to reminisce by exploring places outside their (care) home, free from age-related (physical) restrictions. However, the elderly are particularly vulnerable to overstimulation. Irresponsible VR design can cause stress and anxiety, potentially even exacerbating cognitive decline, and diminishing well-being. We present an electromyography (EMG) driven stress- and emotion-adaptive VR environment for the elderly that provides an immersive but controlled experience targeted at preventing negative emotions. We report our results and insights from a pilot study with elderly participants (N=3). Our system detects and mitigates signs of stress and negative emotions while promoting pleasant recollections.