TER066

Synopsis

Learning to use a wheelchair to gain mobility is one of the many specialised skills needed to regain independence after a severe head injury that impairs the ability to walk. However, there is a barrier of entry with not only regaining their independence, but also the costly and resource intensive nature of selecting an appropriate wheelchair. Firstly, there are multiple types of motorised wheelchairs, each with different drive systems that change how navigation and turning works. Further, there is no safe nor cost-effective way to test these different chairs in different situations and environments. Finally, wheelchair users are often locked into their selection after their first choice, unable to change their device. Immersive virtual reality (VR) technologies can provide aid in this area, by creating a safe simulated experience that allows wheelchair users to test different motorised wheelchairs in multiple environments, allowing them to select a device that meets their needs. This project was generated by consumers with lived experience of brain injury to address a problem they have personally encountered. It will utilise three phases to design, develop and evaluate a prototype VR training simulation for wheelchair mobility and selection. This will not only result in knowledge generation, but also a VR simulation prototype that can be used in clinical settings. Which will positively impact the ability of wheelchair users to select their wheelchair, regain their independence and return to their lives in the community.