Strength And BALance (SABAL) Virtual Trainer Prototype Begins Human Participant Testing at the University of Virginia (UVa)

The Strength And BALance (SABAL) Virtual Trainer provides virtual world gaming experiences to motivate users and track adherence to evidence-based exercises for older adults – promoting improved health outcomes and reduction of fall risk in older adults. SABAL activities support satisfaction of basic psychological needs by placing individuals in the role of a hero that overcomes quest-based challenges. The SABAL prototype combines off-the-shelf electronics with intelligent tracking algorithms and state-of-the-art game engine technology to provide a low-cost solution for use in senior centers, retirement communities, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation clinics, and private residences. The program is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute on Aging.

In August 2016, human participant testing commenced at an exercise and sports injury laboratory under the oversight of an IRB. The study includes up to 24 individuals who are over 65 years of age.