Stroke survivors in the West of Scotland will soon have access to cutting-edge AI and robotics rehabilitation technology thanks to a new partnership between the University of Strathclyde and Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS).
Academics at the university’s Department of Biomedical Engineering are working with CHSS to integrate its research with CHSS’s Hospital to Home services to facilitate a smooth transition for patients discharged from hospital.
The partnership is the first of its kind for stroke patients in Scotland.
Dr Andy Kerr, from Biomedical Engineering at University of Strathclyde said: “We are delighted to have Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland as a partner in our bid to revolutionise rehabilitation.
“Our determination is to develop technology that not only helps recovery but can also be used, easily, at home and in the local community, for example leisure centres. We consider this to be a key factor in improving access to rehabilitation technology.
“Our pilot has gone very well at the Sir Jules Thorn Centre for Co-creation of Rehabilitation technology, and we are well placed, with the support of CHSS, to scale up our efforts in the new year.”
The centre uses AI and machine learning methods used in gaming to tailor exercise programmes for stroke survivors which they can integrate into their rehab when they return home.
Patients in the West of Scotland will have the opportunity to take part in the tech-driven recovery research and support during the first phase of the trial.
The research team will then build on the insight generated to develop the technology. The programmes generated will then be used in community settings across the country.
The CHSS has set up a ‘Stroke Care Revolution Fund’ to support the venture. The organisation hopes to initially raise £160,000 to support the work of the centre and 450 patients over the next 12 months.
Jane-Claire Judson, Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland said: “Every day in Scotland 25 people’s lives are changed forever by stroke. In an instant, the things we all take for granted can be taken away like the ability to walk or talk.
“Rehabilitation is a lifeline that helps stroke survivors get their lives back. But cutting-edge rehabilitation technology and support is out of reach of most people in Scotland.
“This partnership will change that. It will kick start a revolution in stroke care in Scotland that will transform care for survivors and reduce pressures on our NHS.”
