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Siopa

Assessments in occupational therapy, though standardized and essential for decision-making, require human interpretation and are time-intensive. Recent research indicates that VR can significantly benefit elderly patients and those needing cognitive and physical rehabilitation, offering improved confidence, motivation, and safety. The SIOPA project at Howest is working to develop effective VR-based assessments, leveraging advancements in accessible technology and collaborative expertise.

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Quick facts

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    Siopa

Assessments are a crucial part of the occupational therapy process, aiding in decision-making through standardized methods, though human interpretation and external variables still play roles. Despite their benefits, these assessments are time-consuming and intensive for both patients and therapists. Recent research has explored the use of virtual reality (VR) in occupational therapy, particularly for elderly individuals with cognitive and physical impairments, pain relief, and anxiety reduction. Reviews have shown VR's benefits over standard treatments, including improved patient confidence, motivation, enjoyment, and safety. Technological advancements have made equipment like Head-Mounted Displays (HMDs) with eye-tracking more accessible, allowing for better measurement of cognitive and biometric parameters. The SIOPA project, involving multiple departments from Howest, aims to develop effective VR-based occupational therapy assessments through collaborative efforts.

Researchers

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    HIT Lab, research group

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