Voices From The Community | Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis

My Oculus

Written by Gretchelle Dilán, PhD | May 13, 2022 4:00:00 AM

The Oculus is a helmet-eyeglass-styled device. It features two ergonomic hand controls, where fingers fall naturally on the buttons. You can listen to and see exciting virtual reality experiences through this fantastic invention. For us, this takes on greater value because, in this alternating reality, users do not have mobility problems.

The Oculus exists in the Metaverse. It is a virtual open space between many people, created by the convergence of physical and digital reality. Technology is moving towards making you feel things physically through immersive experiences that feel more real every day. It is an alternate life where you can be who you want, when you want and when you want.

But, while it looks like perfect entertainment, as a person living with a spinal injury, there are things I noticed need improvement. The device is heavy, my neck strains, and after about 10 minutes, I feel some discomfort. My injury is T4, and I do not have much abdominal strength, so I must make a lot of effort with my neck to maintain my posture. I understand that it will be much more difficult for a person living with a cervical-level injury. However, I was surprised and disappointed to realize I could not use the Oculus while lying down. The system does not read that position well and does not allow you to enter the virtual world.

While they seem to have significant limitations, I am always amazed at where the technology is headed and how it could help the different populations with functional diversity. Of course, the Oculus is a growing project, and everything that needs improvement must already be in the works. However, today, you can already do many things in the stationary mode, which can be seated.

The games you can enjoy that have attracted the most attention are:

  • Population One
  • Waltz of the Wizard
  • Space Channel 5 VR: Kinda Funny Flash News!
  • Iron lights
  • Arizona Sunshine
  • Trover Saves the Universe
  • Real Fishing VR
  • Gravity Lab
  • Red Matter
  • The Walking Dead Saints & Sinners
  • Audio Trip