ASHA Living Winter 2026 Report, Rendever VR for Social Connections 1-27-26
Benjamin Surmi reported on the American Seniors Housing Association’s report, “Surviving to Thriving” for our discussion. The report outlines key principles for senior living: value, inclusion, trust, agency, longevity, and systems (VI-LTS), emphasizing the need for affordable housing, outcome-based metrics, and innovative living formats like modular designs and multi-generational layouts. It highlights the importance of data intelligence and the potential of virtual reality in enhancing social connections and cognitive functions among older adults. The discussion also touched on the challenges of integrating Medicaid into senior living.
Debbie Howard reported on an article featuring Rendever and we discussed how social connection is possible with virtual reality in a senior living environment.
Commentary by Linda Sherman (Founder, Rethinking Aging Club podcasts) and Ray Gordon.
Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Senior Living Expert and Social Gerontologist
Asha Living Winter 2026 From Surviving to Thriving
https://ashaliving.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SIB_From-Surviving-to-Thriving_Winter-2026-DIGITAL.pdf
Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
APNews 12-25-25 by Michael Liedtke
Virtual reality can be an isolating form of technology, but a Boston-based company called Rendever is turning VR into a catalyst for better cognition and social connections for the elderly.
https://apnews.com/article/virtual-reality-senior-living-social-isolation-b20dc156f4aa0735d7f0cc7558de9bfc
Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard
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Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
