Residents at Mercy Place, Mandurah have come up close and personal with lions and elephants during an African safari, as well as taking a gondola ride through the canals in Venice – all without leaving the comfort of their armchairs.
The ‘trips of a lifetime’ for the seniors have come about as a result of the latest virtual reality software which is currently being trialled by not-for-profit provider of aged care, Mercy Health, at its six Perth aged-care homes.
The software involves residents wearing 3D goggles which enable them to view a computer-generated, 360° view of different reality worlds as they move their heads to look around their environment – whether that’s in Asia, Antarctica or the Savannah Plains.
Mercy Health WA State Manager, Ms Anita Ghose, says Mercy Health has spent more than $3,000 on the virtual reality goggles and software after becoming aware of how seniors’ overall well-being could be enhanced as a result of the technology from research carried out overseas.
“From the trial being run at Mercy Health’s homes in WA, including Mercy Place, Mandurah, we have evidence that this new technology not only provides residents with a great deal of enjoyment and pleasure, it also assists those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s to recall memories about their life,” Ms Ghose said.
“Mercy Health is focused on staying on top of technology to assist residents with improved quality of life and this virtual reality technology is proving a fantastic way for them to participate in some unique armchair travel.
“One resident who spent many years as a sailor has even been able to get back onto a ‘yacht’, which was particularly special for everyone involved in his care.”
Mercy Health is a Catholic community not for profit provider of care, founded by the Sisters of Mercy and grounded in a 2000 year history of caring for those in need. The organisation is a national service provider of health and aged care throughout Victoria, Southern New South Wales, Western Australia, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory. In Western Australia, the organisation cares for over 300 people across six residential homes, with 78 independent living units.