The City Council organizes the activity ‘Blue Sea Sensory’ for the elderly and vulnerable groups

It will be developed by the company Pesca y Turismo Azul from April to June. The objective is to improve the quality of life of the participants through cognitive stimulation using virtual reality.

The Estepona City Council informs of the activity ‘Mar Azul Sensory’ that 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 be developed by the company Pesca y Turismo Azul from April to June, was born with the aim of promoting emotional well-being, cognitive stimulation and social inclusion, while valuing the maritime-fishing heritage of Estepona as a key element of local identity.

In addition, this project not only seeks to improve the quality of life of the participants, but also to strengthen the links between the community and its heritage, encourage active participation and create an intervention model that can be replicated in other coastal areas.

Some 150 people will participate in this project, distributed over six days designed for small groups, which will allow for personalized attention tailored to the needs of the participants. Each session will last three hours and will be structured in blocks that combine learning, direct experiences and sensory stimulation.

In addition, one of the most outstanding elements is the incorporation of immersive virtual reality technology, which will be developed at the Blue Immersion and Awareness Center CISAT, through the use of state-of-the-art glasses and specifically designed contents, participants will be able to live complete sensory experiences that recreate the marine environment, stimulating emotional memory and favoring the connection with memories linked to the sea.

This program also includes guided visits to the fishing port and the fish market, where they will learn about traditional sea trades, fish auction processes and the history of the local fishing industry. These activities will be complemented 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 less 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 15,000 euros, financed entirely through public aid under the GALPA Costa del Sol (FEMPA 20121-2027).