Virtual Reality (VR) is already changing how people engage with games, applications, and other digital interfaces, and companies worldwide are constantly working to develop the technology further and use it to create even more immersive virtual experiences. Research and tests with existing technology suggest that virtual reality technology could significantly impact the lives of persons with mobility disabilities, offering new experiences and wellness benefits.
New experiences
One of the exciting things about VR is the ability to experience things that wouldn’t usually be possible. Immersing oneself in games or virtual worlds is one of the first things people imagine when they think of VR. Exploring even further leads to the ability to simulate real-world spaces. A person with a mobility disability could use VR to engage in physical activities or visit a place they may not have access to in the physical world.
Simulation of real-world situations
The simulation of real-world spaces in VR also provides the opportunity to research new places and practice navigating through them. This means a person with a mobility disability could get a realistic idea of what to expect before visiting a location, including seeing how accessible it is and what kind of barriers they may encounter so they can plan ahead.
It could also create a safe environment for practicing tasks that an individual may be attempting for the first time or may find challenging.
Better digital accessibility
As VR becomes more advanced and available, people with mobility disabilities can interact with digital interfaces in customized ways.
It may not be possible to make an application perfectly accessible for every person, but building them to be compatible with innovative assistive devices and VR technology gives users the freedom to access things in the way that works best for them.
Social interaction
Researchers are looking into VR as a potential tool to fight social isolation, which could be helpful for persons whose mobility disabilities create barriers to accessing their community and opportunities for social interaction. Some studies suggest that VR could be even more effective than standard gaming at reducing feelings of social isolation. As people with mobility disabilities are at an increased risk of being isolated from others, virtual interaction could improve their social lives and, as a result, positively impact their mental health.
Interacting with others in a virtual space could also feel safer. In a virtual world, persons with mobility disabilities can interact with others without that disability being visible, so people are less likely to make assumptions or pass judgment. And for those who feel less limited while using VR technology, being in a virtual space could be highly liberating.
Enhanced therapy
Individuals using VR to assist with physical therapy are showing promising results. Getting to in-person appointments can be a significant barrier for some persons with mobility disabilities, and being able to attend appointments virtually can help them overcome this barrier. Studies have even shown that visualization may help improve physical therapy results, suggesting VR could be beneficial in more ways than one.
Are there any downsides?
VR technology offers many possible benefits, but the technology is still young and presents new challenges. Accessible hardware and software are necessary for these devices to be useful to persons with disabilities. Considering accessibility when developing new technology can lead to fewer barriers and ensure the inclusion of valuable experiences and essential services for a broader range of people.
Fortunately, accessibility is becoming more of a priority in the tech industry, and there are organizations dedicated to helping developers understand how to make things more accessible. As VR becomes a more significant part of everyday life, ensuring that it evolves in a way that makes the world more accessible—not less—will be all the more critical.
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