Virtual Rehab System Helps Older Adults Step Up Their Game
From: Physical Therapy Products

A new virtual reality system is helping older adults achieve improved
strength, balance, movement, and endurance. 

The OmniVR, from Accelerated Care Plus, uses a 3D camera and specialized
software to capture a patient's image or avatar in real time, and introduces
it into a virtual, game-like environment displayed on a large monitor. Under
a PTs supervision, patients can play games that mimic therapeutic activities
selected for their specific physical condition.  

Therapists can choose among six therapeutic exercise categories: seated
exercise, wheelchair propulsion and control, upper extremity, balance,
walking, and cognitive activities. Exercise protocols target large motor
movements such as leaning, knee extension-flexion, reaching, sit to stand,
squatting, stepping, and marching. At the end of each session, the system
produces a performance summary to help guide treatment. 

Read the entire article at:
http://www.ptproductsonline.com/SOAPNotes/2010-11-24_04.asp

Links:
Accelerated Care Plus
http://www.acplus.com/

Accelerated Care Plus Products
http://www.acplus.com/products.php

Omni VR Demonstration (video)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5rQvLPmKeQ

Virtual Rehabilitation for Geriatric Patients
http://www.rehabpub.com/news/2010-10-18_01.asp

Portland Seniors First to Test New Rehabilitation Technology
http://www.marquiscompanies.com/marquislife/newsletter/portland-seniors-first-to-test-new-rehabilitation-technology