Power wheelchair driving: a multisensory simulator using VR to learn in rehabilitation centers

Power wheelchairs (PWCs) significantly enhance mobility for individuals with disabilities but are often challenging to master, requiring extensive training. Traditional training methods can be risky, resource-intensive, and difficult to implement. Virtual reality (VR) offers a safer, customizable, and effective alternative, as demonstrated in rehabilitation contexts. We developed a multisensory VR simulator incorporating vestibular feedback to enhance the sense of presence and mitigate cybersickness. Our studies show effective skill transfer from the virtual environment to real-world PWC use, validated with actual users in clinical trials. This demonstration highlights the capabilities of our mechanical simulator, featuring navigation scenes from previous trials and ongoing work with virtual agents. The simulator’s immersive and adaptive design addresses the challenges of PWC training, offering a practical and innovative solution for clinicians and users alike.