Fraunhofer-GesellschaftGame-based Multimedia Applications for Older Persons
The Internet presents seemingly endless possibilities: social networks, online shopping, and a broad selection of free-time activities, to name but a few. Web-based offerings are still used mainly by a young clientele, however.
The “SilverGame“ project develops attractive and stimulating game-based multimedia applications that are specially designed to facilitate older persons’ interactive participation in society.
It offers seniors the opportunity to experience leisure activities, like singing or dancing, virtually via their computer or television screen, while simultaneously gathering and exchanging information on various subjects through online media. Despite the physical separation, they can arrange to “meet” with others by audio- or videoconference to engage in shared activities. In this way, virtual contacts can give rise to actual social contacts and relationships.
“SilverGame“ is intended not just to offer new free-time activities, but also to promote mental and physical fitness. With this combination, it can contribute to the well-being of older persons and promote the use of Internet-based technologies.
In the “SilverGame“ project, Fraunhofer FOKUS develops and implements algorithms for voice recognition, gesture control, and movement detection, and supports its partners in system integration and testing. The algorithms are utilized in applications such as a playful driving simulator, a virtual song club, and dance and fitness training.
The objective of the project is to develop a multimedia platform and a range of modules to be used on the television. The platform is to be designed as a complete system, with hardware (set-top box, webcam, etc.) that is easy to install and use. Game applications and services are to be made available as separate modules and are to be expandable at any time.
