Lucas Kupczik is a PhD student researching virtual reality and technology at the Atlantic Technological University, Letterkenny. He has five years of experience in immersive technologies, developed through his academic journey from bachelor’s to PhD. He has built a strong connection with Virtual Reality (VR) and games development and is currently engaged in research focused on implementing immersive technologies to enhance the wellbeing of older adults through interactive and relaxing virtual experiences.
His current project, “Bringing the Outdoors Indoors – Impact of an AI-driven Avatar within a Virtual Reality Simulation for Older People’s Perceived Loneliness,” explores how virtual reality (VR) and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) can emotionally support the wellbeing of older adults, particularly those isolated in nursing homes. By developing immersive natural environments and integrating a companion AI avatar that talks and interacts with users, his work aims to mitigate perceived loneliness and foster emotional connections between older people, the avatar, and the virtual environment.
