On Tuesday 3rd December, many of the Hobbs Rehabilitation team gathered at our centre in Winchester to take part in the demonstration and training of a new, highly anticipated neurotechnology, SimFit2Drive. Physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists from all our centres convened for an exciting opportunity to dive into the latest innovation. They not only got an exclusive presentation from the company themselves, but they also had the chance to roll up their sleeves and test out the driving kit first-hand.
The SimFit2Drive is an innovative neurorehab device that combines physical and cognitive simulator-based solutions for post-concussion patients and individuals with neurological conditions. It is a one-of-a-kind tool in rehabilitation, with the Winchester location hosting the second-ever unit to be used in a rehabilitation setting. It will be instrumental in our treatments and therapies that we offer patients at Hobbs Rehabilitation.
What is the SimFit2Drive?
Developed by a research-driven, expert team, the SimFit2Drive was created through the collaborative efforts of CEO Jaka Sodnik, along with Kristina Stojmenova, Rob Howland, and Marko Sremec; a multidisciplinary team with a wealth of knowledge stemming from engineering, research, and medical backgrounds.
“We are dedicated to creating pioneering solutions that empower adults with cognitive or physical impairments to be independent drivers for as long as possible.” – SimFit2Drive
While they originally created the SimFit2Drive driving simulator for the assessment of vulnerable drivers, Hobbs Rehabilitation are collaborating with them to adapt the device to work with patients in a neurological rehabilitation setting. The state-of-the-art driving simulator will bring a gamified approach to patients being treated with neurological conditions, or who are having therapy post-concussion. Combining physical and cognitive assisting towards facilitating goal-orientated rehabilitation, the SimFit2Drive has an array of exciting features to support our therapists and patients.
Key Features:
- Realistic Driving Simulation: The device replicates real-world driving scenarios (such as changing speed, steering around obstacles, pedestrian involvement, etc). It includes an adaptable steering wheel with speedometer and indicators, bespoke control pedals, a supportive chair, and an optional driving control stick. The SimFit2Drive can be flexible and adapt to the varying needs of the patient.
- Personalised Feedback: The simulator will provide tailored feedback to clinicians, helping them track patients’ progress and identify areas of improvement. It will serve as a valuable neurorehabilitation tool, complementing other treatments the patient is receiving, allowing clinicians to easily monitor development and results.
- Safe and Controlled Environment: Patients can use the driving simulator in a safe, virtual space without the risks and worry associated with real-world driving, which is essential for those still recovering from, or in, rehabilitation.
“The equipment uses an authentic car driving seat and steering wheel. This, coupled with the functionality of the simulation helps your body and brain remember the functions and moves that driving requires” – Hobbs Rehabilitation Patient
Patient Benefits
The SimFit2Drive is multidisciplinary, meaning that it can be used as a neurorehabilitation tool by most patients at Hobbs Rehabilitation. Our specialist clinicians will be able to tailor treatment plans for patients to include the use of the SimFit2Drive, should they deem it beneficial.
Types of conditions it will benefit:
- Stroke
- Parkinson’s
- Post-concussion
- Brain injury or spinal cord injury
- Long-term neurological conditions
This innovative driving simulator device will be used in combination with the other therapies offered at Hobbs Rehabilitation to create a comprehensive, personalised treatment plan for each patient. The SimFit2Drive device is designed to enhance rehabilitation by offering an interactive and engaging way to work on cognitive, motor, and visual coordination skills that are critical for everyday functioning. For example, if you are a patient with Parkinson’s and have been receiving occupational therapy, the SimFit2Drive device can be incorporated as an exercise within your treatment plan. When combined with other therapies, it offers a more well-rounded and focused approach to your rehab, helping you make real progress and achieve your goals more effectively.
Adding the SimFit2Drive to our therapy treatments can be essential to enhancing patient outcomes. Here are some of the key highlights:
- Boost confidence in everyday tasks, such as driving or managing daily activities
- Gain greater independence
- Enhance quality of life
- Produce noticeable effects from treatment
- Re-establish routine
We have successfully set up the SimFit2Drive at Hobbs Rehabilitation Winchester for patients to start using immediately. The benefits for our patients have been apparent from the very start. For instance, our stroke patient, Bill, was the first to use the driving simulator device:
“Using this simulator after a stroke has given me the confidence I need to start driving again.”
Hobbs Rehabilitation’s collaboration with SimFit2Drive will ensure better patient outcomes, faster response times, and more personalised care.
If you are interested in using it, CONTACT US at [email protected]