'It feels like you are inside the church': pensioners wowed by virtual reality

The Active Ageing Centre in Qormi was buzzing with excitement on Friday morning, as older people had the opportunity to explore landmarks such as St Peter's Basilica using virtual reality headsets, as part of a new initiative aimed at promoting active ageing. 

With Virtual Reality (VR) technology, the senior attendees virtually visited locations including the Vatican and the historic streets of Rome, and took part in immersive activities such as scuba diving.

Antonia Psaila, who goes by the nickname Nina, was one of the handful of people who giddily queued up to try on the VR headset for the first time.

“The glasses showed me inside the Cospicua church. I saw the Madonna (statue), it was so beautiful," the 77-year-old said. 

She explained that moving her head allowed her to explore different parts of the building, including the organ setup in the church.

“It was my first time using the glasses, and it was such a fun experience. Kien tal-genn! (Amazing!) It is hard to believe that you feel like you are inside the church,” she added.

Psaila said she would like to use the headset again to visit inside the Vatican, which she has never seen in person.

Another participant, Nenu Barbara, said the technology gave him a bird’s-eye view of Rome.

"It feels like you are in the air. Everything is so close and I can see all the houses and streets," the 80-year-old said.

The virtual reality initiative will now be rolled out across 36 Active Ageing Centres, allowing more older people to experience the technology. A roster will be introduced to ensure the VRT equipment will be given out to the different centres. 

It builds on a pilot project launched in July 2025 at a Floriana elderly home. The scheme aims to reduce social isolation, stimulate cognitive function and support rehabilitation.

From the historic streets of Rome to an underwater diving experience, seniors get to try new virtual reality technology. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli

Active Ageing Parliamentary Secretary Malcolm Paul Agius Galea said the project had proved popular, particularly among those unable to travel.

“Many residents loved the initiative, especially those who wished to visit places like the Vatican but could not travel,” he said.

He added that the aim was to extend the experience to older people living independently, not only those in residential care.

Further public demonstrations will be held in St Paul’s Square in Rabat on April 26, where people will be able to try the technology.