26 Jul Fraiser Rehab Institute Week 4

Pushing Boundaries in Adaptive Tech

This week was all about innovation, hands-on problem solving, and seeing real-world results. From diving deeper into adaptive gaming to keeping the clinic running smoothly, it was a week that reminded me why creative thinking is so vital in this field.

Clinical Focus: Adaptive Gaming, VR, and Maintenance

My main focus this week was continuing my work on adapting entertainment systems, expanding into exploring how we can adapt VR headsets for pediatric patients. On top of that, I got my hands dirty with clinical maintenance—including helping repair one of our treadmills—and assisting with everyday clinical tasks. It’s rewarding to see both the high-tech and practical sides of keeping a clinic running!

The Big Win: Real Progress

My biggest win this week was watching my ongoing efforts with these adaptive devices pay off in real-time. It was incredible to see that these modifications are actively helping patients engage and progress, rather than creating roadblocks. Knowing that something I worked on is genuinely making a difference for a kid in rehab is the best feeling.

The Challenge: Solving the VR Weight Problem

The biggest puzzle I’m working through right now is finding an alternative way to utilize VR technology for kids who don’t have proper head or neck control, or who simply can’t support the weight of a standard headset. Virtual reality offers so many therapeutic benefits, so I’m currently brainstorming setup modifications—like offloading the weight or using counterbalances—so every child can safely participate.

Weekly Takeaway

My takeaway from this week comes down to this: Never stop thinking, but never lose your patience. Just when you feel like giving up on a tough challenge or a complex design, staying patient and pushing through might be the exact moment you find your purpose.