Phase: |
Challenge Area |
Theme: | Autonomy & Independence (CA3) |
Type: | Research |
Status: | Active |
Start Date: | 2022-07-29 |
End Date: | 2022-07-29 |
Project Leader |
Reber, Michael |
Project Overview
Maintaining good vision allows seniors to stay independent and active, reducing their chances of isolation and developing depression and demenia, and notably helping them age in place. The VRision-system can be an incredibly valuable tool for improving vision in healthy older adults so they can continue their daily activities. The system consists of a stand-alone Virtual-Reality (VR) headset and specially designed activities (stimulations) that train users to follow objects in 3D space while introducing degrees of distractions. Information about the completion of each stimulation is transferred in real-me to a clinic where vision experts and refined algorithms tailor future tasks to appropriately challenge users, thereby improving their ability to maintain eye stability and their field of view. For this project, our team will compare two strategies: (1) Providing a unit in an interprofessional clinic where clients can visit regularly, and (2) creating a loaning system for clients to use VRision in the comfort of their homes. By evaluating the number of users, effectiveness for improving vision and quality of life, adoption by participating settings and staff, adherence to therapy, cost of intervention and adaptations, and project maintenance, we will identify which strategy gets VRision successfully into the hands (and eyes) of more seniors.