Experiences with the Use of Video Bikes and Virtual Reality in Nursing Homes – a Qualitative Study

Abstract

Håkon Johansen,1,2 Bjørg Elisabeth Hermansen,2 Ann Karin Helgesen2 1Centre for Development of Institutional and Home Care Services Østfold, Mysen, Norway; 2Faculty of Health, Welfare and Organisation, Østfold University College, Fredrikstad, NorwayCorrespondence: Håkon Johansen, Centre for Development of Institutional and Home Care Services Østfold, Edwin Ruuds vei 4, Mysen, 1850, Norway, Email [email protected]: The aim of the study was to explore how health personnel experience use of video bikes and VR (Virtual Reality) in nursing homes.Methodology: The study had an explorative design with a qualitative approach.Results: Nine individual interviews were conducted with health personnel. Analysis of the data yielded four categories: 1. the activity promoted engagement and well-being; 2. the activity promoted a sense of community; 3. the activity contributed to person-centred practice by being proactive and adaptive to the resident’s preferences and needs; 4. the activity was promoted and hindered by several factors.Conclusion: This study illuminates that activity with video bikes and VR promoted moments of engagement, and a sense of well-being and community between the nursing home resident and the staff member. It seems reasonable to assert that the activity resembles person-centred processes and yielded person-centred outcomes. However, it is essential to have the right personnel in place and effectively allocate responsibilities.Keywords: nursing home resident, engagement, well-being, sense of community, environmental care in nursing homes

Keywords

• nursing home resident. engagement. well-being. sense of community. environmental care in nursing homes.