UQ Healthy Living is helping over 50s in the fight against Alzheimer’s and Dementia, with a new digital game designed to train the body and brain.
A cognitive training platform, the Dividat Senso is available at UQ Healthy Living’s new Members Studio, launched in partnership with The University of Queensland and UQ Health Care.
UQ Healthy Living Clinical Director Bradley McGregor said the boutique exercise space additional to the facility’s allied health services offers personalised programs using safe, smart, simple to use equipment.
“The Senso trains gait, reaction time and cognitive function to enhance, concentration, memory and spacial awareness.
“This form of training is proving to be effective in improving balance and building cognitive reserve.
“Cognitive health, a focus of UQ Healthy Living, is supported by the latest cutting-edge research on the importance of physical and social activity on promoting brain reserve.”
UQ Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences Executive Dean, Professor Bruce Abernethy said the new studio enables translation of the latest research and emerging advice into practice, for optimal healthy ageing.
“UQ PhD students are working on a number of projects that utilise client data recorded from the smart touch (HUR) technology and client’s performance over time,” Professor Abernethy said.
“A key element of UQ Healthy Living is the unique interprofessional model that addresses cognitive, physical, mental and social wellbeing all under one roof, as well as offering an interprofessional team environment.
“We have students from exercise physiology, exercise and sport sciences, physiotherapy, psychology and counselling working with experienced clinical health practitioners to develop interventions for clients.
“Clients can also attend a range of educational workshops conducted by students providing valuable industry experience for students.”
There are a range of exercise options for over 50s at UQ Healthy Living, from highly supported specialty programs, to independent exercise in the Members Studio.
Intake health assessments determine which services are best suited to new clients.
Media: Kirsten O’Leary, UQ Communications, k.oleary@uq.edu.au, 0412 307 594
