# Connecting the Elderly Using VR: A Novel Art-Driven Methodology
## 5 Discussion  
This article introduces an innovative approach for creating a social virtual reality (VR) platform that seamlessly blends art, technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and VR. Developed as part of a European project, the methodology is designed to safeguard and improve neurological, cognitive, and emotional functions, with a particular emphasis on promoting mental health. Our goal was to create spaces that evoked positive cognitive and emotional responses and memories for seniors. By tailoring these environments to the preferences and behaviors of end users, artists aimed to intellectually stimulate seniors, foster positive emotions and memories, and encourage communication to address the emotional and cognitive needs of the elderly population. With the aspiration to inject emotional and aesthetic aspects into the interior design process, we asked architects and artists to improve the perception seniors had of their home environments and their way of communicating with others. In collaboration with computer engineers, design experiences that evoked positive cognitive and emotional feelings and memories were applied, by following design trends and aesthetic values likely to be appreciated by the users living there. With the use of VR, visual analysis, AI algorithms, and simulations, design decisions were taken in relation to a detailed understanding of the users' preferences and collective behavior, stimulating them intellectually and instigating further their communication with others that addressed their emotional and cognitive needs. Increased independence and creativity, to counteract both loneliness and possible lack of daily stimuli of older citizens, was expected as a result. The proposed co-created interdisciplinary methodology of a VR social environment for the elderly, with the support of artists, allowed for a collaborative and inclusive approach to the design and development of the proposed multiuser virtual environment with synchronous interaction among the users. This approach ensured that the final output was tailored to the specific needs and interests of the end users and led to the development of an art-driven social virtual reality (VR) environment specifically designed for seniors. Additionally, we established a co-creation design methodology, aimed at appealing to seniors and enhancing their sense of independence, comfort, and social connection with friends, relatives, and peers, ultimately improving their overall well-being. The societal benefits of improved social contact are expected to extend to caregivers, family members, and social circles, resulting in enhanced quality time spent together. Several technologies, including AI, VR, visual sentiment analysis, and 3D model design, were presented within the context of this study. Unlike the existing literature on social platforms for seniors, this social VR platform represents a  
Figure 12: (**a**) Mean valence and (**b**) fused arousal per subject over all hotspots. unique contribution. Artists play a key role, utilizing interactive installations and designing VR environments enriched with visual analysis and AI algorithms. The literature extensively explores various VR applications for the elderly, emphasizing their potential benefits. Studies, such as [36; 58; 59], highlight the positive impact of VR interventions on the well-being of older adults. The feasibility, safety, and enjoyment reported in community or residential care settings suggest the potential for broader applications. Moreover, investigations into head-mounted display (HMD) VR, particularly in individuals with dementia, as conducted in [37], provide insights into the heightened pleasure experienced during and after VR sessions. This aligns with our findings, indicating the positive emotional and cognitive responses evoked by our social VR platform among seniors. Challenges faced during the experimental design for rehabilitating patients with moderate to severe dementia, as outlined by [PERSON] et al.