Psychological Effects of 2.5D Photographs on the Well-being of Elderly People

Abstract

This study aimed to clarify the psychological effects of daily viewing and touching the surface of 2.5D photographs. Subjective well-being, sleep quality, health status, the atmosphere of the room, and anxiety reduction were compared between the group that viewed the 2.5D photographs and the group that viewed the conventional flat photos. The subjects of the photographs were either their beloved family members or pets. The results suggested that regardless of the type of photograph, touching and viewing a photograph of beloved family members or pets enhanced subjective well-being and sleep quality. A text mining approach was also used to uncover important topics among reactions to the photo. As a result, the following results were revealed. The participants were surprised and happy when they saw the 2.5D photos. They also found the subjects to be genuine. These effects were not seen in the flat photo group.