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On any given day, Valarie Stanley watches members of area’s older residents tackle Mount Everest, explore the streets of Paris or sit in a garden while never leaving Parry Sound and, for some, remaining in their wheelchairs.

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The Parry Sound Health Team virtual reality project takes the world to older adults for increased social connection and improved mental health — to give them some “fun” as Executive Director Peter Istvan said. Stanley, the Parry Sound Family Health Team senior VR project co-ordinator, arrives at congregate living homes and support centres in the area every week with virtual reality headsets.

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“We give them choices. Where do they want to go in the world today? And it’s kind of fun. I thought it wasn’t going to be as successful as it is; it’s unbelievable,” said Stanley.

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While wearing the headsets, the person can turn their head and move to look around the world on the screen, similar to being in the space themselves.

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The virtual reality program is funded by Ontario’s Seniors Community Grant.