Nostalgia-Driven Design: Creating an Inclusive VR Experience for Older Black Adults

This study examines the technological feasibility and emotional efficacy of a Virtual Reality (VR) platform tailored for older Black adults; a demographic often marginalized in the realm of digital technology. Using a participatory design methodology grounded in user-centered paradigms, theories of nostalgia are integrated with practical technological elements to create a prototype that meets both functional and emotional needs. A total of 28 participants were involved through five stages of the design thinking process, culminating in evaluations at a local senior center. The results reveal enthusiastic user engagement, not only with the platform's interface and functionalities but also its emotional and cultural resonance. These findings highlight the platform's role in fostering digital inclusion among older adults, transforming them from mere consumers to active co-creators, thereby enriching a collective narrative and cultural heritage. The study offers valuable contributions to intersecting fields of human-computer interaction, gerontology, and cultural studies, demonstrating the potential of emotionally and culturally resonant technology to enhance the quality of life for older adults.