Interactive Robotics in Medicine and Care

People with congenital or acquired cognitive disabilities, such as intellectual disability or acquired brain damage, often experience increased anxiety or uncertainty during medical examinations. The "VR-IM" project aims to reduce these fears through the use of virtual reality (VR). Through VR-based training, patients are familiarised with the medical intervention process, the treatment room and the equipment and taught coping strategies to reduce their anxiety and facilitate medical care.

A key aim is to empower patients by enabling them to actively carry out treatment steps themselves in the VR environment. This promotes their self-determination and self-efficacy. We expect that the VR warm-up will not only reduce treatment costs by saving valuable equipment time, but also break down barriers in the healthcare system. The research is relevant for both the clinical and outpatient sectors and can initiate a rethink in the treatment of people with disabilities.