Following a successful launch last summer, Virgin Atlantic has once again partnered with the Women Over 50 Film Festival (WOFFF) to bring a new curated collection of dementia-friendly short films to its inflight entertainment system. These nine additions cater to travelers with dementia and their companions through gentle soundtracks, simple storylines, calming moments and scenes that might spark memories.
“Our customers have told us how meaningful it is to have content that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of cognitive ability,” says Sharon Noyau, Virgin Atlantic’s inflight entertainment content manager. “We’re proud to lead the way in inclusive inflight entertainment.”
The films include experimental dance piece Call of the Cranes, set in the Finnish countryside, and soothing animated work Treasure, about a metal detectorist’s quest in the Shropshire Marshes.
“I am thrilled to be included in this dementia-friendly programme,” says Samantha Moore, director of Treasure. “My mum had early onset dementia, and our experience was that she retained a lot of emotional intelligence, despite losing so much. Music, images, colour, and texture remained potent connectors between us, and I hope that these films will similarly connect with a curious and friendly audience.”
The film collection aligns with Virgin Atlantic’s Hidden Disabilities programme, launched in 2019 to help travelers with non-visible disabilities including dementia, autism, hearing loss and anxiety. Such passengers can pre-arrange further assistance at the airport and onboard, or show the Virgin Atlantic Hidden Disabilities symbol to discreetly request help or reassurance.
Source: Virgin Atlantic adds dementia-friendly films to IFE – Business Traveller
