A game of Chinese chess in virtual reality may offer older adults something simple and hard to come by, a stronger sense of connection.

A new study from researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology found that virtual reality gaming can reduce social isolation in seniors and boost their mental fitness.

With input from 18 older adults, the researchers created a virtual space modeled after a public park. In that space, the participants played Xiangqi, or Chinese Chess, and spent time in a “Cultural Corridor” to chat after their games.

Overall, users said they felt more connected after playing. Many also said the experience felt more engaging because they could take part as a player or as a spectator.

Lead author Qianjie Wei said the choice of game mattered.

“In China, Chinese chess is a highly popular form of social entertainment among older adults, as it offers a familiar and intellectually stimulating pastime. In order to win or play well in the game, players need to coordinate and work with various abilities such as attention, memory, logical thinking, and decision-making,” wrote Wei, who is now enrolled as a PhD student in Computer Science at the University of Rochester.

Wei said repeated use of those skills can support older adults’ cognitive health.

“Repeated use of these abilities during gameplay can help maintain and improve cognitive functioning in older adults. Moreover, the social aspect of the game is equally significant; Chinese chess facilitates social interaction, providing a platform for emotional support and community bonding among seniors.”

The researchers also looked at what long-term use of virtual reality social spaces could involve. Wei and her peers recommended that future research expand into other social games and hobbies.

“Future work could explore a wider variety of cultural activities, such as music, calligraphy, or other highly interactive cultural projects,” Wei said, who has also studied how virtual shuttlecock games can help improve balance in older adults. “This would help cater to the interests of older adults from different backgrounds and provide a richer social experience.”

📸 credit: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2502.11627