PH experts develop VR games to help people with dementia, cerebral palsy

MANILA, Philippines – A multidisciplinary team comprised of healthcare professionals, game developers, and computer scientists, which includes faculty members from UP Manila College of Allied Medical Professions, College of Medicine, and UP Diliman College of Engineering, have developed a rehabilitation technology system to help children with cerebral palsy and patients suffering from dementia.

The Augmented eXperience E-health Laboratory (AXEL) is a multidisciplinary research laboratory that designs and develops immersive technology systems to help gamify experiences that aid in healthcare.

In this case, AXEL has two interactive virtual reality games that are part of a rehabilitation technology called AXEL Virtual Care: Alagang Pinoy sa Makabagong Panahon (Philippine care for the new age).

In Mission to Planet Axel, children with cerebral palsy are able to play while they improve their balance, strength, and walking ability.

Meanwhile, Suroy-suroy is meant for adults with dementia. The game aims to help manage their behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as restlessness and agitation, among others.

“With over 50 million people in the world who have cerebral palsy or dementia, like Isa and Lolo Pepe (patient models), who experience years of healthy life lost due to disability, the need for AXEL Virtual Care is ripe with potential users,” program leader and former dean of the College of Allied Medical Professions, Professor Maria Eliza Ruiz Aguila said.

The AXEL Research Group is currently open for volunteers to participate in the ongoing development of AXEL Virtual Care so further improvements can be made.