The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on people living with dementia. The Alzheimer’s Society reported that nearly half of people living with dementia stated that the pandemic has had a negative impact on their mental health, with over 1 in 3 reporting having lost confidence in going out and carrying out daily tasks.
The Get There Together initiative was established in order to support people living with dementia in Wales, through a series of video resources. The project provides a library of video guides to everyday scenarios and situations that people may encounter in their communities such as attending a hospital appointment, going shopping or engaging in a leisure activity. The videos aim to provide a reassuring walk through of what to expect, aiming to lessen anxiety and help people feel more confident about engaging in activities.
For the next phase of the project, Get There Together decided to utilise the latest 360 camera technology, to investigate how immersive footage could positively impact the user experience of the video guides. This is where the technical expertise of Aspire 2Be was required.
Aspire 2Be was commissioned to produce a series of 360 technology situational videos. These scenarios included a CT Scan, a dental appointment, a hairdressing appointment, visiting a swimming pool, and using the train service. The videos were filmed using the latest 360 camera technology, and with guidance from the experts within each field to ensure the most accurate representation of the user experience.
After filming, the videos were then edited and formatted to allow the viewer to control their experience, by manoeuvring their position within the video. This allows the viewer to explore the scenario in more detail, from every angle, whilst being immersed in the location. The interactive element of the video resources, will provide people living with dementia and their carers with the opportunity to familiarise themselves fully with the environment prior to visiting.
Participating in this project has been a hugely rewarding experience, and we hope that these videos serve to lessen the isolation and lack of confidence felt by people living with dementia, and improve their wellbeing and sense of purpose going forward.
Get There Together video resources can be viewed from the following links:
