Earlier this week, we talked about how a group called Virtual Ability is using virtual reality to help people overcome disabilities. Above is a video for another project this organization is working on is called AVESS (amputee virtual environment support space):
Virtual Ability, Inc. and ADL Company proudly announce the initiation of the AVESS (Amputee Virtual Environment Support Space) Project. AVESS is funded by the Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center (TATRC) of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (USAMRMC).* The purpose of this project is to establish best practices and protocols for the provision of on-line peer-to-peer support services for military amputees and their families. The first phase of this project created demonstration environments in Second Life®. Phase Two will be the creation of a four-sim supportive environment in SL.
Virtual worlds can provide military amputees with an opportunity to enhance their overall quality of life, expedite their reintegration into society, and improve their physical and mental wellness. While the rehabilitation goal is for the soldier to return to active duty, many return to their civilian communities. Spouses and family members of military amputees often become their caregivers after they are released from military hospitals and rehabilitation programs.
Peer support groups help recent amputees gain the experience and confidence and practice the skills necessary to proceed with their rehabilitation. Support groups can also assist family members and spouses with their caregiving issues and concerns. A virtual world environment may facilitate ongoing care and support, especially for amputees who live far from rehabilitation facilities.
* This work is supported by the US Army Medical Research and Materiel Command under Contract "W81XWH-09- P-0731." The views, opinions and/or findings expressed above are those of the author(s) and should not be construed as an official Department of the Army position, policy or decision unless so designated by other documentation.
Of course, ne of the major issues faced by many combat veterans, whether they have been physically injured or not is PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). Second Life hosts another project, sponsored and managed by the National Center for Telehealth and Technology, called the "T2 Virtual PTSD Experience":
he T2 Virtual PTSD Experience, based in Second Life, is an immersive, interactive learning experience designed to educate visitors about combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It includes a simulation demonstrating how PTSD may be acquired during a combat-related traumatic event, including an explanation of the connections between danger cues and triggers, the role of avoidance in the development of PTSD, and how PTSD is a normal human response to traumatic events. Additionally, this environment includes simulations of PTSD symptoms, helping the visitor learn through interactive activities how PTSD symptoms may show up in a person's life. Finally, the environment includes information to help visitors determine whether they or a loved one is in need of care, and how to access that care whether a DoD or VA beneficiary.
This virtual experience does require some basic "gaming" experience, so anyone who is new to the concept of virtual reality should start with the links provided in Part One of this series. Here's a video to learn more:
I discovered a sim in Second Life this weekend that I found very impressive. It's called "Virtual Ability" Island, and it is an ongoing project to assist people who are facing just about any sort of disability, including physical limitations, visual challenges and mental mental disorders.
The project was begun in 2008, and the above video was created in 2009, shortly thereafter. There have been a lot of changes and improvements since then, so the place is even better, now.
For those unfamiliar with online gaming and virtual reality, the orientation to this island is the best orientation I have ever seen. I would encourage anyone, actually, who is wanting to know more about virtual worlds to start here (be sure to make a donation if you are able). The sim is open to anyone who is experiencing a disability of any sort, or for anyone wanting to learn how to help someone who is facing a disability. Those wanting to better accomodate employees or participants facing disabilities in their workplaces and "real life" (as opposed to virtual life) situations can visit the programs "Health Info Island," which is linked from the main island in-world.
According to the organization's "About" page:
During our unique intake process, we conduct an individualized skills assessment, refer clients for help with assistive hardware and software as appropriate, and provide customized training and orientation.
Once they are "there," Virtual Ability, Inc. helps members of our community integrate into the virtual society, and provides an ongoing community of support. The community offers members information, encouragement, training, companionship, referrals to other online resources and groups, ways to contribute back to the community, and ways to have fun.
We take virtual field trips as part of our curriculum with our new intakes. We also have volunteers who love to go shopping, and enjoy helping folks with virtual makeovers. While almost anyone new to a virtual online world would enjoy a little early guidance, we are finding that this individualized attention is often critical for the success of those who have disabilities.
We also do a lot of dancing. We have taken folks to walk in the virtual woods, climb mountains, go virtual skydiving - all kinds of things that are profound and a pleasure to someone with physical or mental limitations. It's an amazing experience helping someone who will never walk again in real life to jump on a virtual trampoline.
Tomorrow, we'll talk about resources for those facing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
