VR games developed to support people with dementia, cerebral palsy

Filipino professionals have developed virtual reality games aimed at supporting the rehabilitation of adults with dementia and children with cerebral palsy.

"AXEL Virtual Care: Alagang Pinoy sa Makabagong Panahon,'' developed by a team of healthcare professionals, computer scientists, and game designers including faculty members from UP Manila College of Allied Medical Professions, College of Medicine, and UP Diliman College of Engineering, features games: "Mission to Planet Axel" for children with cerebral palsy and "Suroy-suroy" for adults with dementia.

According to the Mayo Clinic, cerebral palsy is ''a group of conditions that affect movement and posture,'' which is ''caused by damage that occurs to the developing brain, most often before birth.''

''Some people with cerebral palsy can walk while others need assistance. Some people have intellectual disabilities, but others do not. Epilepsy, blindness, or deafness also might affect some people with cerebral palsy. There is no cure, but treatments can help improve function,'' it added.

People with dementia suffer from cognitive and psychological changes, which, according to the Mayo Clinic, include memory loss, problems communicating or finding words, trouble with visual and spatial abilities, poor coordination and control of movements, confusion and disorientation, depression, anxiety, and agitation.

Mission to Planet Axel aims to help improve the balance, strength, and walkability of children with cerebral palsy, while Suroy-suroy seeks to help manage behavioral and psychological symptoms affecting elderly patients with dementia.

''Aside from its user-friendly interface, both sets of virtual reality games bear themes with cultural relevance for Filipinos. The games were described as 'fun and exciting, memorable, meaningful, and relaxing' by volunteers who participated in the early testing phases of the technology,'' the UP Manila Information, Publication, and Public Affairs Office said in a press release on Tuesday.

AXEL Research Group is still seeking volunteers to take part in the continued development of this new technology. Those who are interested in volunteering may reach out to the UP Manila—Information, Publication, and Public Affairs Office (UP Manila-IPPAO) at upm-ippao@up.edu.ph.— Jiselle Anne Casucian/VBL, GMA Integrated News