Rendever and Its Impact on the Residents of Mount Cartier Court

Rendever is a virtual reality headset designed specifically for seniors, and has been proven to reduce the feelings of social isolation and anxiety among seniors in long term care facilities. The transition into long term care is a challenging and complex one for most seniors, being placed into a new location with unfamiliar faces, and starting a new routine can cause social isolation, depression, and anxiety to a senior, especially one with dementia.

To add to senior’s challenges and social isolation in long term care, a world wide pandemic occurred, locking down the most vulnerable population keeping them from friends and lovedones. Recreation departments were tasked with reinventing stimulating activities without breaking the five metre rule. No visits with family and no one from the outside world coming in. This would feel isolating and sad to anyone, especially those with cognitive decline. The Rendever allowed Mount Cartier Court to bring the world to the residents, taking them to places they have always wanted to visit, or a trip down memory lane. They were able to engage with each other within covid restrictions. Walk down the streets of Paris, and wave to the travellers around them. Residents reaching out to touch puppies and kittens, talking to them like they are right in front of them. Hearing “oh lord, look at that thing” as a gorillas passes by. Laughing over the idea of riding a motorcycles and chatting about there old house, reminiscing about the street looking different and there house has been painted. These experiences are so important in having an enjoyable time in long term care, because in the end that is what it’s all about.

Thank you Revelstoke District Health Foundation for making this virtual reality a reality to our residents. From all of us at Mount Cartier court, residents, family, friends and staff our sincerest thanks for what you have gifted us with.

Submitted by Alicia Mele, program coordinator for Mount Cartier Court