Recently, the SilVR Adventures team visited Summerset St John’s in Auckland to witness first-hand how virtual reality is transforming the lives of residents across the Care Centre and Memory Care Centre. What unfolded was not just a demonstration of technology, but a moving example of how immersive experiences can unlock joy, evoke memories, and spark meaningful connections.
Residents were transported to Italy, some for the first time and others for a return visit to cherished destinations. Watching the reactions of the group—smiles, storytelling, spontaneous conversation—made it clear that this was more than a passive activity; it was a deeply personal and powerful experience.
At the heart of this initiative is Orquidea Tamayo Mortera, National Recreation Lead at Summerset Retirement Villages. Orquidea is passionate about integrating meaningful technology into recreational therapy programs.
“It’s not just about getting technology for the sake of it — it has to be valuable for the wellbeing and quality of life of the people using it daily,” she explained. “That’s why we chose SilVR Adventures. It’s been designed with older people in mind — with narration, music, the ability to pause and support, and content that sparks what I call ‘gleams’ — those moments of joy.”
Orquidea has spent over six years researching assistive technologies that improve wellbeing in aged care. The decision to implement VR was informed by its ability to provide experiences that are not only engaging, but emotionally resonant.
“We’re not just offering a journey to somewhere. We’re offering the chance to relive a dream, revisit a memory, or explore a place that might have only lived in someone’s imagination.”
The session at St John’s was hosted in a quiet, sunlit showroom overlooking the village—a deliberate choice to ensure a calm and focused environment. Residents responded warmly, many commenting on the realism and sense of presence.
The benefits were echoed by frontline staff. Tannaz, a Diversional Therapist, shared how VR brought a previously non-verbal resident living with dementia and Parkinson’s to life.
“We were exploring Greece, and he started speaking—just a few words, but they were real memories. It lifted his mood for the entire day.”
Paddy, who works in the Memory Care Unit, shared a moment with a resident who virtually visited China.
“When the Great Wall came on screen, he lit up—’I’ve been there!’ he said. After the session, he talked to others about it. You could see how it gave him joy and purpose.”
With VR kits in use across Summerset’s Care Centres and Memory Care Homes, with significant usage across sites. Both staff and leadership see enormous potential in expanding the content library to include New Zealand culture, Māori and Pacific Island stories, and interactive elements to further enhance engagement.
Looking ahead, Orquidea sees VR becoming a standard offering in aged care.
“The future of VR at Summerset is promising. I envision it being as common as a daily walk or an exercise class—especially for people in palliative care or those living with dementia. It gives them the chance to travel, reflect, and feel joy in ways that traditional activities can’t always achieve.”
The visit to St John’s served as a powerful reminder that when done well, technology can be humanising. Through SilVR Adventures, Summerset is not only leading innovation in aged care but also redefining what’s possible in creating moments that matter.
About Summerset St. John’s, Auckland
This brand-new village is a sophisticated retirement haven, with breathtaking views, right in the heart of the eastern suburbs.*
Residents are now able to enjoy the exquisite village centre with a bar and bistro, enviable resort-style facilities, and Summerset’s renowned continuum of care, including serviced apartments (care is subject to certification, availability, and eligibility criteria).
For more information, please visit: https://www.summerset.co.nz/find-a-village/auckland/summerset-st-johns
