Scientists from the Jacobs University of Bremen have discovered that the elderly, as well as the young, can master new tools and technologies, but at the same time perceive virtual reality in their own way. The research was published in the journal Experimental Brain Research.
It is believed that as people age, they lose their ability to acquire new skills. Therefore, older people often feel isolated from the younger generation and become highly dependent on other people in their daily lives.
In the new study, scientists used augmented and virtual reality technologies. Subjects, consisting of seniors 60 to 84 years old and a group of young people aged 18 to 35 years, had to grasp a virtual object with a virtual tool using virtual reality glasses.
Older participants sometimes needed a little more time and practice, but overall they were just as adept at using the instrument as younger participants. The researchers concluded that age does not negatively affect learning to use these tools. The brain is still able to adapt and learn even complex tasks.
However, the study also revealed notable differences: younger participants perceived virtual grasping tools as part of their body, while older participants perceived it as an external tool for reaching and grabbing an object.
The scientists’ results will help improve learning in a virtual environment for patients with neurological conditions, including those after stroke.
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Source: Gazeta
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