From: jn@tommy.demon.co.uk (John Nissen)
Subject: Re: SOC: applications for elderly
Date: Thu, 06 Feb 97 09:48:28 GMT
Message-ID: <855222508snz@tommy.demon.co.uk>
Organization: Myorganisation


In article <19970203232900.SAA26485@ladder01.news.aol.com>
           silverco@aol.com "Silverco" writes:

> I am wondering if there are any applications for virtual reality in
> the senior market now?  

I'm considering VR for mobility rather than mental stimulation.

I'm interested in using VRML models of places as maps to help elderly
and visually impaired people (1) study a place before they go - so
they can get to know their way around (2) have information about
objects around them at their fingertips when they visit a place.  For
example, the VRML models could be part of a tourist guide, used (1) to
decide whether to visit a place or (2) to find one's way around and
find things of particular interest to you.

If anybody is developing suitable models of places, or technology to
capture such models, I'd be most interested to know.

> Is our thesis correct, and how can VR be
> integrated into assisted living facilities?  Will it be cost
> effective?

I am developing a PDA system with inexpensive audio-tactile display
to make it cost effective.

Cheers from Chiswick,

John
-- 
Access the word, access the world    Tel/fax +44 181 742 3170/8715
John Nissen, Chiswick, London, UK    Email to jn@tommy.demon.co.uk