Senior VR fitness research launches with successful first session

The project is within the initiative of the BVC Applied Research team, led by Research Manager Zahra Shire, Data Specialist Amos Kafata, and Research Associate Jessamine Keith Pagada. They are working together with the U of A team, led by principal investigator Eleni Stroulia and team members Victor Fernandez and Farnaz Koubasi, who have developed the Virtual Gym, a virtual reality application specifically designed for seniors.

BVC is responsible for data collection in the Calgary area and has partnered with Brain Health Catalyst, headed by Jennifer Mallamo, to recruit participants. The U of A has also hired three Community Studies student research assistants from Bow Valley College to support the project: Desiree Guzman, Kisia Diama, and Simranjot Sekhon.

Following meticulous planning and preparation, the initial session took place on May 12, 2025, at the Bow Cliff Senior’s Club, involving a total of 11 enthusiastic voluntary participants. These seniors are keen to engage in the 9-week program aimed at promoting healthy aging through virtual reality exergames.

The success of the first session can be attributed to the dedicated efforts of student volunteers Maria Papania and Rizabel Balderama, and Brain Health Catalyst volunteer Jenny Feschuk. Special thanks are also due to the Bow Cliff Senior’s Club for providing the venue and their support for this research initiative.

This promising start marks a significant milestone in our journey to improve senior health through innovative technological solutions. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants and partners for their invaluable contributions, and we eagerly anticipate the continued success and engagement in the weeks to come.

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