Immersive VR Environment for Guided Autobiographical Memory Retrieval via Sensory Stimulation

Author : Diana Scurtu, Dragoş Cȋrneci, Ramona Popa, Razvan-Florin Neacsu, Maria Goga, Nicolae Goga, Ioana R. Podina, Ioan Alexandru Bratosin, Cosmin-Andrei Bordea, Laurentiu-Nicolae Pomana, Antonio-Valentin Stan, Bianca Popescu

Abstract :Advances in virtual reality (VR) technology have created innovative opportunities to enhance cognitive functioning and develop targeted therapeutic interventions for mental health conditions. This paper presents a novel IoT-VR system designed to investigate the psychological and immersive efficacy of a multisensory VR exposure protocol for autobiographical memory retrieval, compared with traditional odor-evoked memory techniques. By integrating 3D visual environments, olfactory stimuli, and motion-based interaction, the system stimulates autobiographical recall through personalized stimuli linked to participants’ past experiences of personal fulfillment. We detail the architecture and implementation of this IoT-VR framework, which is part of a multidisciplinary Romanian ARUT-funded research project that is bridging computer science and psychology to explore memory-driven therapeutic outcomes. The study underscores the potential of multisensory VR environments to foster optimism and mitigate stress by reactivating positive autobiographical memories

Keywords :Autobiographical memory, multisensory virtual reality, odor-evoked memory retrieval, VR therapy, stress reduction.

Conference Name :World Conference on e-Education, e-Business and e-Commerce (WC-EEE-25)

Conference Place Nice France

Conference Date 19th Aug 2025