DREAMING is a conceptual immersive virtual reality (VR) platform designed to support First Nation Australian elders in maintaining cognitive vitality and mental wellness. Developed as an individual project for the RSA Student Design Awards 2024 under the "Caring Culture" brief, DREAMING envisions using VR to create culturally immersive experiences that help elders stay connected to the Australian landscape and Indigenous traditions.

 

Indigenous Australians experience disproportionately high rates of cognitive impairments and dementia compared to the general population. Aging-related mobility limitations make it increasingly difficult for elders to engage with the land and cultural heritage, which are central to their identity and well-being.

 

DREAMING proposes a VR platform that provides a virtual connection to the Australian environment, offering activities such as exploring landscapes, identifying native species, creating Indigenous art, and interacting with other community members. These experiences are designed to promote cognitive engagement, enhance well-being, and maintain a cultural connection to country, even for elders who face physical limitations.

 

The design process was guided by user-centred principles, including:

1. Participatory Design (PD): Imagining a collaborative approach where key stakeholders, such as First Nation elders and their carers, would provide input to shape the platform. This would ensure the platform’s design addresses user needs, cultural expectations, and accessibility requirements.

2. Research through Design (RtD): As a concept, DREAMING is built on the idea of iterative prototyping, with continuous testing and feedback to refine the product. If developed, this would involve creating various VR environments and activities that are culturally meaningful and cognitively enriching.

3. Accessibility: The conceptual design prioritises accessibility to cater to older users with potential visual, auditory, or motor impairments, ensuring the platform is inclusive and easy to use.

 

DREAMING envisions a transformative way for Indigenous elders to reconnect with their culture through virtual experiences. The project imagines a future where technology enables the preservation of traditions and supports cognitive health for aging populations.