Challenge

HiQ recognized the potential of VR technology to positively impact patient well-being in healthcare settings. However, as an IT consultancy, they faced challenges in establishing direct partnerships with healthcare institutions due to complex public procurement processes. Concurrently, nursing homes were actively seeking new technologies to enhance resident care. Atea, a provider of hardware and infrastructure to municipalities and counties, lacked the internal capacity to develop the requested software solutions. This alignment of needs led HiQ and Atea to join forces, culminating in the development of a VR concept for healthcare applications.

Assignment

Initiated in 2018, the project’s objective was to create a VR concept that could add value to nursing homes by offering experiences that would improve residents’ quality of life. The vision was to utilize VR technology to provide virtual journeys and experiences that could spark memories and encourage social interactions among elderly residents, particularly those who had become socially withdrawn. Atea supplied the necessary hardware, while HiQ developed the software, including a comprehensive system for managing VR headsets and producing tailored VR content.

Solution

HiQ developed a prototype enabling nursing homes to use VR headsets for experiencing recorded events, such as train rides or nature walks. Recognizing that many elderly individuals have impaired vision and short-term memory, the team adapted the films to be enjoyable despite simpler graphics and repeated viewings. To promote social interaction, they implemented features to mirror VR experiences on TV screens, facilitating engagement between caregivers, other residents, and the VR user.

In collaboration with Atea, the concept was introduced to various healthcare institutions, with Hässleholm serving as the pilot site where the VR technology was tested in a terminal care facility. Insights from this trial were used to refine the solution and create more personalized experiences for residents.

Results

The VR solution demonstrated a notable positive impact on residents’ well-being. Many previously isolated elderly individuals became more socially engaged, eager to participate in shared VR experiences. Virtual visits to familiar childhood locations or immersive nature experiences rekindled memories and renewed enthusiasm for life, leading to increased participation in daily activities.

The successful partnership between HiQ and Atea led to the expansion of the VR solution to an additional 14 nursing homes, broadening its impact. A subsequent study was initiated to examine the long-term effects of VR on elderly well-being, continuing to yield positive outcomes. This project exemplifies how innovative technology can be seamlessly integrated with healthcare initiatives to enhance quality of life during a crucial life stage.