DecibelDefender: Using Virtual Reality for Promoting Sustainable Hearing Habits at Concerts and Festivals

Noise-induced hearing loss is a growing concern among young adults attending concerts and festivals, where prolonged exposure to high-decibel environments can cause irreversible damage. DecibelDefender is a multiplayer VR experience designed to promote sustainable hearing habits by immersing users in a simulated concert environment. Participants experience progressive hearing loss and engage in interactive activities emphasizing the importance of hearing protection during concerts. Initial results shows an impact on behavioral intentions, with participants demonstrating greater preference for protective measures after trying the VR experience. This study highlights VR’s potential to foster empathy and encourage preventive health behaviors.