McMaster University

Purpose

The team aims to develop and assess a novel vision-based guided augmented reality exercise system tailored for older adults. Leveraging collaborative efforts from the National Research Council's vision-based skeletal technology, McMaster University Geras Centre for Aging Research's clinical evidence-based movement protocols, industry expertise, and experts by experience, the prototype will take the form of an augmented reality interface. This interface aims to guide older adults through balance and resistance exercises, employing real-time vision-based technology to monitor 3D movement patterns. Phase one involves the development of a co-designed movement protocol emphasizing cultural sensitivity and user-friendliness.Phase two will see the launch of a fully functional visual feedback system prototype using standard PC and RGB- D cameras. The third phase will involve rigorous reliability and validity testing in collaboration with healthcare professionals, with the goal of creating a low-cost, technology-driven solution to improve balance and reduce fall-risk.