More than 120 people participated in the first phase of the ‘Blue Sea Sensory’ activity for the elderly and vulnerable groups.

It has been developed in the months of April and May by the company Pesca y Turismo Azul, with the objective of seeking an improvement in the quality of life of the participants through cognitive stimulation using virtual reality. The second phase of this project will begin in September.

The Estepona City Council reports that more than 120 people have participated in the activity ‘Mar Azul Sensorial- Navegando entre Sensaciones y Recuerdos’ which combines real experiences in the maritime environment with immersive technology, to improve the quality of life of the elderly and vulnerable groups.

This initiative, which will have a second phase in September, has been developed for two months by the company La Mar Consultores-Turismo Marinero, with the aim of promoting emotional wellbeing, cognitive stimulation and social inclusion, while valuing the maritime-fishing heritage of Estepona as a key element of local identity.

The project has been developed in six days designed for small groups, which has allowed a personalized attention and adapted to the needs of the participants. Each of these sessions, which lasted three hours, were structured in blocks that combined learning, direct experience and sensory stimulation.

In addition, one of the most outstanding elements has been the incorporation of immersive virtual reality technology, through the use of state-of-the-art glasses and specifically designed contents, participants have been able to live complete sensory experiences that recreate the marine environment, stimulating emotional memory and favoring the connection with memories linked to the sea.

In this regard, it should be noted that one of the most significant results of the first phase of this project has been its direct impact on the digital divide, which affected more than 97 percent of the participants at the beginning of the activity.

This program has also included guided visits to the fishing port and the fish market, where they have learned about traditional sea trades, fish auction processes and the history of the local fishing sector. These activities have been completed with workshops on organic aquaculture and seafood crafts.

Mar Azul Sensorial’ also stands out for its commitment to environmental sustainability and equality, integrating educational content on good practices in sustainable fishing, protection of the marine ecosystem and awareness of coastal biodiversity. The program also makes visible the role of women in the fishing sector, traditionally under-recognized, incorporating the gender perspective as a cross-cutting theme.

The project is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda, especially in areas such as health and well-being, innovation, sustainable communities and the protection of underwater life. It has an investment of 15,00 euros, financed entirely through public aid under the GALPA Costa del Sol (FEMPA 2021-2027).