Co-designing immersive virtual reality environments with people with dementia

In this thesis, I describe in detail my project focused on the interactive and collaborative development of virtual reality (VR) environments involving people with dementia (PWD), their carers, and dementia care specialists. The aim of the project was to develop a recreational device that could be potentially used by PWD on their own for enjoyment.

The conducted research explored the development of immersive virtual environments based on the memories of PWD, incorporating interviews and feedback to recreate, as closely as possible, meaningful places from their past along with the music they loved.<br><br>In my study, the integration of co-design principles, music therapy, and VR technology was explored to enhance the mood of two participants with dementia. This approach centred around the active involvement of the participants in the design process, ensuring that the VR environments were tailored to their personal preferences.