Business models for the implementation and provision of services for the elderly using the innovative GRYDSEN therapeutic kit, using virtual reality

Desired outcome

In 2022, a team of innovators-scientists developed a commercial therapeutic solution GRYDSEN, slows down cognitive (memory) and motor (movement) function disorders characteristic of people over 60 years of age. By training these functions we can extend the period of independence and good quality of life of the elderly.

Initial Problem Description

The GRYDSEN therapeutic solution is so innovative that potential buyers (senior and medical institutions) do not know how to improve their functioning implementating this system. Therefore, the solution is not often sold. Unfortunately, because of this, the company does not have money for intensive, long-term promotion. The challenge is to develop a low-cost, and effective promotion plan, with maximum use of modern media, on the Polish, German, French and British markets.

Context

The social need that the GRYDSEN therapeutic product responds to is to keep older people in good physical and cognitive condition for as long as possible, thereby extending the period of their independence and maintaining a high level of their well-being (physical and mental).
We are looking for creative students who should be interested in new media technologies, including VR, and should also have a positive approach to working in the environment of older people.

Connection to cross-cutting areas

The solution includes electronic devices and a proprietary therapeutic application, making it a solution that enables the digitization of the senior care sector.. Customers may include senior clubs, day care homes, hospitals, sanatoriums, clinics, and small psychological and rehabilitation offices.

Input

In 2050, 1/3 of the population in Poland (and comparable in other European countries) will be people aged 65 and over, and the average life expectancy will continue to increase. The number of people with Alzheimer's is growing and will continue to grow faster and faster. Currently, it may already be as many as half a million people in Poland, and it is predicted that this number will increase fourfold. And even in people who age "correctly", without symptoms of disease, cognitive and motor functions also weaken and the quality of life associated with the deterioration of these functions decreases. The aging process cannot be stopped and reversed, but it can be slowed down using appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, such as GRYDSEN.
GRYDSEN is a therapeutic tool using virtual reality (VR) techniques used in advanced computer games, hence the acronym GRYDSEN (Games for Seniors). The solution is used in diagnostics, therapy, prevention, medical rehabilitation and education of ill and healthy people.

So far, solutions offered on this market have been based on intuitive solutions that were not supported by empirical evidence (no publications in scientific journals on the use of virtual reality in the elderly). The GRYDSEN product, compared to existing gaming solutions for seniors on the market, is the only tool for the elderly that simultaneously improves cognitive and motor functions verified in scientific research. This is an innovative therapeutic tool for the elderly, in the form of stimulating exercises with elements of virtual reality. GRYDSEN improves the quality of life and psychophysical well-being, strengthens independence and improves cognitive and motor functioning of people over 60. This is possible thanks to the activity undertaken in the form of training, which is reinforced by the phenomenon of "immersion" in the world of virtual reality.

Expectations

The team that takes up the challenge and develops a concept that proves effective will have the opportunity to implement the program in the company, as employees or interns.

GRYDSEN – current and anticipated challenges:
Challenges in Poland and abroad include:
Lack of funds for marketing and sales network
Key team members receiving other job offers
Long and expensive medical device certification
Specific local conditions for sales abroad (e.g., Germany, USA)
Reluctance of highly qualified personnel to innovate
Technological progress and adaptation costs
Apparent concern for seniors' needs by obligated institutions

Desired Team Profile

The team should include students of psychology or pedagogy of the older and students of marketing and/or e-marketing. Students of international economic relations or international trade would also be recommended.
candidates should be interested in new media technologies, including VR, and should have a positive approach to working in an older people's environment.

Additional Information

GRYDSEN Development Plans/Investment Needs:
Building a national sales network
Establishing a partner sales network (franchise)
Exhibition marketing at trade fairs and conferencesInternet marketing to establish expertise in psychotherapeutic innovations
Promotion at universities for senior care specialists
Finding foreign partners and entering European markets

Related Keywords

• Physical Sciences and Exact Sciences
• Digitalization
• Medical Health related