Effect of VR for education to promote the social participation of people with cognitive disorders caused by acquired brain injuries

Abstract

Brain injuries will often result in some form of permanent damage and lead to disorders such as cognitive and behavioural problems. Although treatments are available, it is likely that the patient and their family will have to learn to live with the disorder and the patient may face challenges related to workplaces and care networks. Ultimately, this can result in the patient retreating from society, which can be damaging to mental health. Professor Tamami Aida, Mejiro University, Japan, is a Director at the Japanese non-profit organisation Minna no centre Omusubi which seeks to make better, more inclusive lives for people with long-term brain injuries. Aida is currently working on a project to help different people involved in the care and treatment of those with acquired brain injuries (ABI). A key focus is educating stakeholders on the process of vocational rehabilitation (VR), which is the end goal of a long process from initial brain injury representing a return to work. She has created informative materials to enlighten stakeholders on the needs of ABI patients and the process of VR, including a video that explains VR and highlights the necessary input of those involved in the care of ABI patients. Ultimately, Aida wants to ensure that people with ABI have a suitable framework to rebuild their lives.