MSc Sara Arlati

My work deals with the use of VR and immersive VR technologies for motor and cognitive rehabilitation. My PhD thesis has focused on the cognitive stimulation of older adults showing the first symptoms of dementia; together with my research group in STIIMA, I designed a system to administer physical activity - by using a cycle-ergometer - and stimulate users' visuo-spatial abilities using VR and an interactive finger-touch large screen. Recently, we made an attempt to increase users' sense of presence by creating immersive scenarios with the same aims. Usability tests were promising, and also older adults with mild cognitive impairment accepted the technology and appreciated the experience. I am also working on projects dedicated to the regaining of autonomy in daily life for novice wheelchair users, and to the recovery of upper limb's functions in post-stroke patients. In both cases, I had the chance to integrate VR with robotic devices.