A pilot study of a nature-based virtual reality program on mental health among Korean immigrants during the COVID-19 pandemic
Yongseop Kim MPH*, Junhyoung Paul Kim PhD, Richard Kim, Sungho Yoon
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AbstractBackground: The health disparity between non-immigrant and immigrant adults in utilization of formal health services as well as community-based programs has been a critical issue. The social contact restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic have been an additional contributor to mental health problems as Asian immigrants encounter barriers to interacting with others and engaging in meaningful activities.
Objective: The purpose of the study was to capture health benefits reported by Korean, immigrants after experiencing a nature-based VR program.
Method: We carried out semi-structured in-depth interviews with six participants.
Results: Four important themes were identified as health benefits that nature-based VR participation provided for the participants: (1) enjoyment, (2) positive emotion, (3) reduction of stress, and (4) positive interaction.
Conclusion: These themes indicate that nature-based VR can be an effective treatment program for health promotion among Korean immigrants.Keywords: health, immigrants, nature-based intervention, virtual reality, COVID-19, qualitative approach
Yongseop Kim MPH*, Junhyoung Paul Kim PhD, Richard Kim, Sungho Yoon (2023). A pilot study of a nature-based virtual reality program on mental health among Korean immigrants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gerontechnology, 22(1), 1-8
https://doi.org/10.4017/gt.2023.22.1.831.06