Improved spontaneous outings of elderly residents during seasonal light-emitting diode pixel mapping entertainment in a nursing home courtyard

As we age, the various biological mechanisms that govern our physical and mental functions decline, leading to the deterioration in our sensory, motor, cognitive, and other functions. Before we realize it, the combined effects of these changes may diminish our motivation to live well. In today’s increasingly diverse and complex society, it is important to support senior citizens in maintaining their prosocial motivation and to help them sustain this throughout their lives. To address this, the present study explored the effectiveness of light-emitting diode (LED) entertainment as a tool to promote physical activity and mental well-being among nursing home residents. In December 2023, LED pixel mapping entertainment using digitally controlled illumination was held in the courtyard of a Japanese nursing home for elderly residents. The results showed that approximately 97% of the facility’s residents reported improvement in mood as a result of the show. In addition, most residents typically spent most of their time in their rooms, except when gathering in the dining room for meals or in-house events. However, during the light show, many residents were observed visiting the location where the illuminations were set up or moving to the windows to watch the show, with other spontaneous outings also occurring.