New insight: Virtual reality embraces the world of patients

The limitations and frustrations of those with sight and hearing problems can now be better understood thanks to a virtual reality headset, says Margaret Jennings

The limitations and frustrations of those with sight and hearing problems can now be better understood thanks to a virtual reality headset, says Margaret Jennings

WITH a large dark shadowy patch moving in the middle of the screen and all sounds muffled, it’s irritating to try and figure out what the video is about. We cannot see properly or hear clearly. But Alfred: The Story, a series of scenes featuring the life of a 74-year-old man suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) isn’t badly produced — it’s relating his experience exactly as it is.