Camarillo Health Care District’s VR Activity Club encourages group experiences and social connection through an immersive program that combines virtual reality travel and in-real-life (IRL) activities. Participants may take a stroll down memory lane or learn something new by engaging in a group activity, and experience the excitement of virtual travel with guided tours and discussions.

These clubs are made up of six individuals who meet four consecutive weeks. The experiences are one-hour long with an additional 30 minutes set aside for an optional Snack & Chat (participants bring their own snacks for themselves and snack while getting to know each other better, building their connection and possibly leading to a friendship). Cost is $30 for the series.

VR has proven to help improve quality of life and a sense of well-being by reducing loneliness, addressing depression, and reducing barriers to socialization through common experiences. According to the study “Impact of Virtual Reality Experience on Older Adults’ Well Being” published by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Design and Management and MIT AgeLab, "VR is believed to be beneficial to older adults due to its immersive interaction capabilities.

"Participants who used the VR system reported being less socially isolated, being less likely to show signs of depression, experiencing positive affects more frequently, and feeling better about their overall well-being.”

VR Activity Club 7 will be offered on Thursdays, March 26-April 16, 10-11:15 a.m.

March 26: Cliffs & Clover. Experience the breathtaking vastness of the Grand Canyon, where layered rock formations tell a story millions of years in the making. Soar over the canyon's rim, glide through the winding Colorado River, and witness the stunning colors of sunrise and sunset from iconic viewpoints. Also join us in Jasper National Park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. You'll see stunning views of the Pyramid Mountain. We also celebrate Irish culture by touring the Emerald Isle, exploring natural wonders, and taking a private tour of the Guinness Factory. Our activity will be to write an Irish limerick.

April 2: Trail Tranquility. We will use desk cycles as we explore the stunning landscapes of Iowa and the Rocky Mountains. In Yosemite National Park, we will venture deep into the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and marvel at the wonders of one of the most popular parks in the world. We'll enjoy a Snack & Chat while talking about our favorite local trails.

April 9: European Vacation. Grab your VR passport for a trip to Europe! Tour historic castles in Slovakia, explore the stunning nature in Switzerland, and visit landmarks in Berlin. We also will take a guided tour of the bustling city of Prague, visit the relaxing island of Santorini, and explore the beauty of majestic Spain. Wrap up by writing a postcard from your favorite European destination while engaging in a Snack & Chat.

April 16: Happy Earth Day! To celebrate, we'll explore our wonderful planet. The exploration kicks off with snorkeling along the Great Barrier Reef. Then we'll visit mountains around the world, and swim with sea turtles. Appreciate nature as you visit an arboretum, explore animal habitats, and play a round of golf. Our IRL activity will be a poetry reading about the beauty of nature.

 

VR Activity Club 8 will be offered Tuesdays, April 21-May 12, 10-11:15 a.m.

April 21: Historical Figures & History Highlights: Travel through time to learn about some of history's most influential figures. We'll discuss famous musicians, actors and politicians who have changed the world. We'll also uncover the historic journey of Apollo 11, learn about the tragedy of the Titanic, and watch Queen Elizabeth's Coronation Day in 1953. Our activity will be a conversation and sharing of memories of significant events we witnessed in history.

April 28: Nostalgic Tunes & Performing Arts: Enjoy a trio of musical experiences that feature some of the most well-known songs. Learn about your favorite musicians, and listen to compositions by Beethoven and Mozart. We will also celebrate the performing arts by enjoying experiences of talented performers in music and dance. Learn about iconic women in music, join in on a ballet rehearsal, and enjoy a front-row performance of a ragtime classic. Our activity will be "Name that Tune."

May 5: Wonderful Waterfalls & Captivating Coasts: We will explore magnicent waterfalls around the world, as well as captivating coasts in Portugal and Italy. These mesmerizing destinations are true gems of Europe, from Ponta Delgada, an enchanting coastal city and the sun-soaked shores of the Amalfi Coast, to a tour of the Azores, breathtaking volcanic islands. Our activity will be to share our fondest beach memories, from childhood trips to favorite seaside spots.

May 12: Mother's Day & Scenic Safari: Join us for an exciting day of exploration as wew embark on virtual tours of Patagonia, the Galapagos Islands, and Grey Glacier. We'll discover unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Then sit back and relax as we watch a florist create a special arrangement and then join us as we engage in discussion questions all about family. Throughout this experience, we will reflect and express gratitude for the oved ones in our lives. Our activity will be to write a short poem about the importance of mothers based on the prompt, "What does being a mother or having a mother (or significant female role model in your life) mean to you?

 

VR Activity Club 9 will be offered Thursdays, June 25-July 16, 10-11:15 a.m.

Adventures TBD