Eudaimonic media engagement in virtual reality: Memory, identity, and well-being among older Black adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31iConf64204Keywords:
Virtual reality, Older adults, Eudaimonic engagement, Immersive resonance, Restorative reflectionAbstract
Introduction. While virtual reality (VR) is often studied for entertainment, its role in supporting reflection and well-being in later life is underexplored. This exploratory study investigates how older Black adults use VR to engage with personal history, exploring its potential as a restorative technology.
Method. Nine older Black adults who were VR novices engaged with tailored scenarios on an Apple Vision Pro headset. We then conducted semi-structured interviews to explore their reflective experiences.
Analysis. Interview transcripts were analysed using a focused thematic analysis guided by theories of eudaimonic engagement and existential resonance.
Results. The findings show that VR facilitates existential resonance, where generic scenes align with personal values. This turns passive memories into a participatory reliving of the past, described as being ‘in it, not looking at it.’ These resonant encounters were eudaimonically restorative, transforming bittersweet emotions into peace and joy.
Conclusion(s). The study demonstrates that VR can function as a technology of care by facilitating immersive resonance. This process supports restorative reflection with applications in reminiscence therapy and grief support, reframing the medium as a mirror for personal history.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kuo-Ting (Tim) Huang , Yanyun (Mia) Wang
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