AquAbilitation: ‘Virtual Interactive Space’ (VIS) with Buoyancy Therapeutic Movement Training

Therapeutic (re)habilitation intervention within aquatic environments to advantage buoyancy aided movement-training using ‘Virtual Reality’ technologies indicated potentials and next-level challenges through Proof-of-Concept (PoC) ‘beyond-simulation model’ testing. Beyond the buoyancy aspect is a concept built on evidence from field work where profoundly disabled participants after a pool visit exhibited greater awakeness and engagement within intervention. The study builds upon the author’s prior research to empower, motivate and engage interactions to supplement traditional (re)habilitation approaches. Testing took place in a context-specific location with a human subject. Therapists and special pool staff attended and evaluated positively to potentials. This chapter shares the concept, set-up and work-in-progress toward realising next-level research funded consortia to question and address challenges found to date with a goal of advancing the field of (re)habilitation through AquAbilitation.