Age-Friendly Kochi to Pioneer India’s First VR & AR Center for Healthy Ageing Kochi Leads the Way in Digital Innovation for Seniors with the Launch of a State-of-the-Art VR and AR Center

Kochi, Kerala – In an unprecedented move to enhance the quality of life for older adults, the Centre of Excellence for Developing Age-Friendly Communities (CEDAC) is preparing to unveil India’s first-ever virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) center designed specifically for seniors. Located in Kochi, the first Age-Friendly City in Southeast Asia to be recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the new center aims to revolutionize how older adults engage with technology to promote healthy ageing.

Virtual Reality Meets Healthy Ageing: Breaking Barriers, Busting Myths

Historically, virtual and augmented reality technologies have been primarily used by the marketing and gaming industries, with a strong focus on younger generations. CEDAC’s groundbreaking initiative seeks to change that narrative, proving that these advanced tools hold tremendous potential for older adults. The new center will use VR and AR to address key aspects of physical and mental well-being, including brain stimulation, mindfulness therapies, virtual travel, and even rehabilitation. “Our vision is to create a space where older adults can benefit from the latest innovations to enhance their quality of life,” said Dr. Praveen G. Pai, Director of CEDAC. “This isn’t just about medical care; it’s about breaking down the barriers of ageism and showing that seniors can fully embrace and benefit from cutting-edge technology.” “We’re witnessing firsthand how technology can be a game-changer in healthy ageing,” Dr. Pai continued. “The early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and this pilot sets the stage for broader adoption of these tools.”

A Hub for Tech and Healthcare Integration

The center will focus on guided virtual reality tours aimed at preventing deconditioning and offering mental health benefits, while also supporting physical rehabilitation. Seniors will also be able to explore the world through virtual travel experiences, helping them stay engaged and mentally stimulated. Moreover, the center will focus on balance retraining, vertigo management, and even phobia and anxiety treatment—critical concerns for many older adults.

India’s First Age-Friendly VR Center: A Model for the Future

As India’s first dedicated VR and AR center for seniors, this facility in Kochi will serve as a model for other cities in Kerala and across the country. The center will also act as a research hub, focusing on integrating advanced technology into senior healthcare in a meaningful way.

HappyMoves and Age-Friendly Kochi

HappyMoves, a specialized assistive solution for neuro and physiotherapists, has joined forces with Age-Friendly Kochi, India's first VR and AR center for seniors. This partnership aims to revolutionize senior healthcare by combining innovative technology with personalized rehabilitation.