Spatial Memory and Emotional Experience in Immersive Multisensory Environments: A Comparison Between Young and Older Adults

Spatial representations rely on two reference frames: egocentric representations, based on the observer’s body, and allocentric representations, based on object-to-object relations. While egocentric processing tends to remain relatively stable across the lifespan, allocentric processing often declines with age. Research in environmental psychology suggests that natural environments may support cognitive functioning and emotional well-being, potentially influencing spatial representations. This exploratory study examined whether different environmental configurations influence spatial memory and emotional experience in two groups: young adults (23–34 years) and older adults (65–85 years). Participants explored four immersive virtual environments: two urban settings (Grandstands and Basket Playground) and two naturalistic settings (Garden and Park). After each environment, they performed a spatial memory task requiring egocentric judgments (e.g., what object was closest to you?) or allocentric judgments (what object was closest to another one). Participants also evaluated each environment’s emotional impact using Likert-scale ratings of pleasantness and activation. Preliminary findings suggest higher spatial memory accuracy in naturalistic environments. In particular, allocentric judgments appeared to improve after exploration of the Garden in both age groups. Natural environments also tended to elicit lower negative emotional evaluations, particularly among older adults. These findings suggest that natural environments may support spatial processing and emotional experience, with potential implications for healthy aging.