Yan LI PhD | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Prof Janelle Yorke; Dr Richard Chen Li; Dr Mengqi Li
Competition Sponsor: Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
Award Year: 2024
Severe mobility impairment (SMI) has a range of negative impacts on people’s lifespan and overall quality of life. SMI is associated with increased rates of medical complications, hospital readmission, and mortality and substantial medical expenses with additional medical expenses increased by HKD 68,318 per case annually. Literature shows that over 50% of people with SMI have depression or anxiety symptoms. People with SMI often have poor mental health, which can lead to harmful behaviours and chronic health conditions and consequently shorten a person’s lifespan. “Digital Strolling” refers to the use of virtual reality technology to simulate the experience of walking or moving around in a digital context. This can be particularly significant for people with SMIs, as it enables them to experience a sense of movement and exploration that they may not be able to achieve in the physical world. This can have positive effects on mental health, including reducing feelings of isolation and improving mood. It can also provide a form of gentle mental stimulation, which can be beneficial for overall cognitive function, and quality of life.
This study aims to develop and test the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of a “Digital Strolling” intervention among people with SMI. “Digital Strolling” is hypothesized to be able to improve depression, chronic pain, and sleep quality of people with SMI. The research findings will lay the foundation for subsequent large-scale trials and provide recommendations for medical staff and rehabilitation experts to develop innovative and comprehensive community healthcare programs for people with SMI.