Virtual reality a blast for Perth seniors

Virtual reality goggles are providing senior West Australians the opportunity to explore a new world beyond their aged care homes and in some cases bring back treasured memories.

The 3D goggles and virtual reality software has allowed the elderly residents to escape their Mercy Place Mont Clare facility in Claremont and take a trip to the African savannah and Antarctic ice sheets.

When they put the goggles on, the seniors are immersed in a 360-degree computer-generated world, allowing them to move their heads to look around the environment.

Mercy Health WA state manager Anita Ghose said the $3000 trial had prompted some dementia and Alzheimer's sufferers to recall memories about their lives.

"One resident who spent many years as a sailor has even been able to get back onto a yacht, which was particularly special for everyone involved in his care," she said.