Virtual reality system recreates real-life tasks to improve patient development

Saebo, a producer of medical devices focused on engagement and development, has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its SaeboVR software system. The system is a rehabilitation program designed to use virtual reality to help patients engage in physical and cognitive activities.

"As an occupational therapist working with individuals with neurological diagnoses, I want to provide realistic and meaningful activities that also offer many repetitions of movements to promote neuroplasticity," stated Allison Ellington. "SaeboVR is a motivating, engaging, and occupation-based product that allows for customizable and safe practice of activities that are meaningful to clients. Individuals who have used this system tell me they notice improvements in how they are able to use their impaired arm more functionally, which is so important."

The VR system portrays everyday environments such as going grocery shopping, making breakfast, taking care of a pet and planting a garden to engage patients in performing self-care tasks and provide additional therapy. The system can be further customized to change the task time, endurance, speed, range of motion and coordination to further improve success in treatment.

"As the world's only provider of a virtual reality system solely focused on simulated self-care tasks, SaeboVR opens new possibilities for clinicians and patients," said Saebo's co-founder, Henry Hoffman. "Prior to this break-through technology, motion capture programs were primarily focused on games rather than real-life functional tasks. Although computer-based exercises can be beneficial, often times, therapists report that games are not always appropriate for a certain patient population or lack significance to maintain a client's motivation and engagement. Thankfully, SaeboVR fills the void by not only being meaningful and relevant, but truly functional and appropriate for all ages."