Using mobile virtual reality to empower people with hidden disabilities to overcome their barriers

Abstract

This paper presents a proof of concept for an immersive and interactive mobile application which aims to help people with hidden disabilities to develop tolerance to the environmental stressors that are typically found in crowded public spaces, and more particularly in airports. The application initially proposes the user to rehearse a series of sensory attenuated experiences within digitally reconstructed environments of the Aberdeen International Airport. Throughout rehearsals, environmental stressors are gradually increased making the environments more sensory challenging for the user. Usability and pilot testing provided encouraging outcomes ahead of future developments.