1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:16,720 Hello and welcome back to The Paddock Room. 2 00:00:16,720 --> 00:00:17,720 I'm Margo. 3 00:00:17,720 --> 00:00:22,900 I'm here with Wayne and this is Talking Tech with Wayne. 4 00:00:22,900 --> 00:00:30,680 The podcast dedicated to discussing smart phones, smart homes, and everything in between. 5 00:00:30,680 --> 00:00:37,320 This show is a promise of information freely given to all that seek it and that is a pact 6 00:00:37,320 --> 00:00:40,240 between us and all of you. 7 00:00:40,240 --> 00:00:51,160 Please log into our website www.talking-tech.org and click the join the discussion button to 8 00:00:51,160 --> 00:00:53,760 join the discussion. 9 00:00:53,760 --> 00:00:58,920 While you're there, you can check out TV shows or click the schedule a call button to 10 00:00:58,920 --> 00:01:06,320 explore how to bring a Talking Tech discussion group to your local church or community center. 11 00:01:06,320 --> 00:01:13,880 We also have a helpline where trained technicians are ready to answer your questions 24-7 and 12 00:01:13,880 --> 00:01:18,240 best of all it's 100% free. 13 00:01:18,240 --> 00:01:23,040 That number is 215-406-HELP. 14 00:01:23,040 --> 00:01:30,080 It's 215-406-4357. 15 00:01:30,080 --> 00:01:36,760 Today we will discuss virtual and augmented reality for seniors. 16 00:01:36,760 --> 00:01:45,000 So Wayne, let's start by explaining what virtual and augmented reality actually is. 17 00:01:45,000 --> 00:01:52,800 Sure, virtual reality VR technology enables you to experience a computer generated environment 18 00:01:52,800 --> 00:01:55,320 as if you were there. 19 00:01:55,320 --> 00:02:01,040 Augmented reality AR is a technology that overlays computer generated images in the 20 00:02:01,040 --> 00:02:06,760 real world enhancing or augmenting the environment around you. 21 00:02:06,760 --> 00:02:10,640 And how can seniors benefit from these technologies? 22 00:02:10,640 --> 00:02:13,160 Well, there are many ways. 23 00:02:13,160 --> 00:02:19,200 For example, VR can provide users a new way to experience travel or adventure without 24 00:02:19,200 --> 00:02:20,720 leaving their homes. 25 00:02:20,720 --> 00:02:26,480 They can explore places they've always wanted to visit or revisit places they've been to. 26 00:02:26,480 --> 00:02:31,280 It can also be a therapeutic tool to help folks deal with certain conditions such as 27 00:02:31,280 --> 00:02:34,560 anxiety or depression. 28 00:02:34,560 --> 00:02:36,680 That's very interesting. 29 00:02:36,680 --> 00:02:40,880 What about augmented reality? 30 00:02:40,880 --> 00:02:43,440 Augmented reality can be useful in many ways. 31 00:02:43,440 --> 00:02:49,680 It can help users navigate their own environment by providing visual aids such as directions 32 00:02:49,680 --> 00:02:53,160 or information about places they visit. 33 00:02:53,160 --> 00:02:59,680 It can be used for education, providing interactive learning experiences that enhance engagement 34 00:02:59,680 --> 00:03:01,000 and retention. 35 00:03:01,000 --> 00:03:03,720 Wow, that sounds amazing. 36 00:03:03,720 --> 00:03:08,360 Wayne, how can listeners access these technologies? 37 00:03:08,360 --> 00:03:10,320 Well there are a few options. 38 00:03:10,320 --> 00:03:15,720 There are standalone VR headsets that don't require a computer or smartphone and there 39 00:03:15,720 --> 00:03:20,320 are also VR headsets that use a smartphone as the display. 40 00:03:20,320 --> 00:03:26,960 AR can be accessed through smartphones or tablets that have AR capabilities. 41 00:03:26,960 --> 00:03:33,240 And what are some examples of virtual and augmented reality applications for seniors? 42 00:03:33,240 --> 00:03:34,880 There are many applications. 43 00:03:34,880 --> 00:03:42,560 For example, VR headsets like the Oculus Quest can be used to explore travel destinations 44 00:03:42,560 --> 00:03:46,960 or visit museums from the comfort of your home. 45 00:03:46,960 --> 00:03:52,720 AR apps like Google Maps can give seniors real-time direction and information about places they 46 00:03:52,720 --> 00:03:54,360 visit. 47 00:03:54,360 --> 00:04:00,000 Some apps like AR Anatomy can provide a 3D interactive learning experience about the 48 00:04:00,000 --> 00:04:02,280 human body. 49 00:04:02,280 --> 00:04:04,800 Those are some great examples. 50 00:04:04,800 --> 00:04:06,920 It's very exciting. 51 00:04:06,920 --> 00:04:12,680 Now let's discuss how listeners can use virtual and augmented reality, Wayne. 52 00:04:12,680 --> 00:04:19,200 One of the most popular uses of this technology is virtual travel and tourism. 53 00:04:19,200 --> 00:04:24,480 With a VR headset, users can visit far off destination and experience the sights and 54 00:04:24,480 --> 00:04:29,040 sounds of different parts of the world without ever leaving home. 55 00:04:29,040 --> 00:04:34,040 They can even explore places they may have always wanted to visit but have yet to have 56 00:04:34,040 --> 00:04:36,760 the chance to see in person. 57 00:04:36,760 --> 00:04:40,960 Another use for virtual and augmented reality is in healthcare. 58 00:04:40,960 --> 00:04:46,720 They can use this technology to visualize and understand complex medical procedures, 59 00:04:46,720 --> 00:04:50,800 making it easier for them to feel comfortable with their treatment. 60 00:04:50,800 --> 00:04:56,640 For example, VR technology can help patients with anxiety disorders by providing a virtual 61 00:04:56,640 --> 00:05:00,480 environment that helps them relax. 62 00:05:00,480 --> 00:05:05,560 Virtual reality can be used to help users with everyday tasks. 63 00:05:05,560 --> 00:05:11,160 Smart glasses or other devices can overlay information in the real world, making it easier 64 00:05:11,160 --> 00:05:15,720 to see and understand things like directions or instructions. 65 00:05:15,720 --> 00:05:21,720 Also, virtual and augmented reality can be used for entertainment. 66 00:05:21,720 --> 00:05:27,920 Seniors can play games, watch movies, or even attend virtual concerts all from the comfort 67 00:05:27,920 --> 00:05:29,920 of their own homes. 68 00:05:29,920 --> 00:05:35,920 What are some considerations seniors should consider when using these technologies? 69 00:05:35,920 --> 00:05:41,760 Well, they should always consult their doctor before using these technologies, especially 70 00:05:41,760 --> 00:05:47,080 if they have health conditions that may be affected by AR or VR. 71 00:05:47,080 --> 00:05:52,680 They should also take regular breaks to avoid eye strain or discomfort. 72 00:05:52,680 --> 00:05:54,360 That's good advice. 73 00:05:54,360 --> 00:05:59,400 Are there any privacy or security concerns with these technologies, Wayne? 74 00:05:59,400 --> 00:06:00,400 Yes. 75 00:06:00,400 --> 00:06:05,840 Any technology always has the potential privacy and security risks. 76 00:06:05,840 --> 00:06:10,160 Users should always make sure to use reputable apps and websites and they should be careful 77 00:06:10,160 --> 00:06:14,600 about sharing personal information or financial information online. 78 00:06:14,600 --> 00:06:17,280 That's good to know. 79 00:06:17,280 --> 00:06:21,680 So what's the future of virtual and augmented reality? 80 00:06:21,680 --> 00:06:26,520 The future looks promising as these technologies become more and more advanced, they'll become 81 00:06:26,520 --> 00:06:29,040 more accessible and easier to use. 82 00:06:29,040 --> 00:06:34,360 They'll also become more integrated into our daily lives, providing new opportunities 83 00:06:34,360 --> 00:06:39,400 for education, entertainment, and healthcare. 84 00:06:39,400 --> 00:06:44,800 Another way users can benefit from VR is through VR gaming. 85 00:06:44,800 --> 00:06:51,640 In VR gaming, players are immersed in a virtual environment using a VR headset and other equipment. 86 00:06:51,640 --> 00:06:58,840 VR gaming can be a fun and engaging way for seniors to stay mentally and physically active. 87 00:06:58,840 --> 00:07:05,880 Many games are designed specifically for seniors, including puzzle games, exercise games, and 88 00:07:05,880 --> 00:07:12,040 games that can help with memory and cognitive function. 89 00:07:12,040 --> 00:07:17,160 Another way users can benefit from AR is through virtual assistance. 90 00:07:17,160 --> 00:07:25,000 AR technology can provide users with various helpful tools, including medication reminders, 91 00:07:25,000 --> 00:07:29,160 safety alerts, and even virtual assistance in the home. 92 00:07:29,160 --> 00:07:35,440 AR technology can also enhance their shopping experience, allowing them to try on clothes 93 00:07:35,440 --> 00:07:41,120 virtually or see how furniture will look in their home before making a purchase. 94 00:07:41,120 --> 00:07:45,600 One of the most significant advantages is the ability to experience activities that 95 00:07:45,600 --> 00:07:48,680 may be physically challenging. 96 00:07:48,680 --> 00:07:53,880 Seniors can use VR to explore virtual environments, travel to different places, and participate 97 00:07:53,880 --> 00:07:58,280 in activities they may not have been able to do before. 98 00:07:58,280 --> 00:08:05,880 AR technology can help them by providing real-time information on various objects, environments, 99 00:08:05,880 --> 00:08:08,440 enhancing their everyday activities. 100 00:08:08,440 --> 00:08:14,280 Wayne, what's on the horizon for virtual and augmented reality? 101 00:08:14,280 --> 00:08:19,600 The future of virtual and augmented reality is bright and the technology is continually 102 00:08:19,600 --> 00:08:22,440 evolving to meet users' needs. 103 00:08:22,440 --> 00:08:28,040 In the coming years, we can expect to see more advanced VR and AR technology that cater 104 00:08:28,040 --> 00:08:35,080 to seniors, making it easier for them to say engage and connect it with the world. 105 00:08:35,080 --> 00:08:36,580 Absolutely. 106 00:08:36,580 --> 00:08:42,320 As with all of the information we share here, flex your Google search muscles, log into our 107 00:08:42,320 --> 00:08:54,640 website www.talking-tech.org or call our helpline and that number is 215-406-HELP. 108 00:08:54,640 --> 00:09:00,240 That's 215-406-4357. 109 00:09:00,240 --> 00:09:03,800 Well I see that's all the time I have for today. 110 00:09:03,800 --> 00:09:09,240 It has been my pleasure to be here and I look forward to the next time we can do it again. 111 00:09:09,240 --> 00:09:13,680 I wish you all a farewell. 112 00:09:13,680 --> 00:09:20,200 Talking Tech with Wayne podcast was produced by Grey Geek Productions, hosted by Margo 113 00:09:20,200 --> 00:09:23,200 Jones and Wayne Hunter. 114 00:09:23,200 --> 00:09:40,240 It was Transparser Blue Jazz by Steppen Cartonburg.