Mercy Health resident Charles Scott with the 3D virtual reality goggles.
Camera IconMercy Health resident Charles Scott with the 3D virtual reality goggles. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

New view on aged care

Laura PondJoondalup Times

Mercy Health is trying virtual reality software in six of its Perth facilities.

Residents can wear 3D goggles that enable them to view a computer-generated 360-degree view of different land-scapes.

They are able to explore by moving their heads to look around the environment, whether it is the canals in Venice or an African safari.

Mercy Health WA state manager Anita Ghose said the organisation had spent more than $3000 on the goggles and software.

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“From the trial being run at Mercy Health’s homes in WA, including Edgewater, 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,” she 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 on to a ‘yacht’, which was particularly special for everyone involved in his care,” Ms Ghose said.