An Internet of Things Resource for Rehabilitation

Evolving from a mature body of research titled
SoundScapes, this paper reports on a work-in-progress that is
investigating the need that is evident for improved information
and recommendation infrastructures to assist in healthcare
intervention and communication (including apparatus and
method). The need is due to increased ICT use and the potentials
for positive treatment outcomes from informed decision-making.
A challenge is security of sensitive data, however detailing this is
beyond the scope of this paper. In line with this need, an evolving
cloud-based collaboration infrastructure resource is reported
where global networks of professional subscribers will have
increasing access to specific profile data and recommendation
strategies. The focus on this phase of the work is to network those
using (or considering using) ICT in wellness/QOL, rehabilitation
and habilitation. The resource is being built from real-world case
studies and is envisioned as a developing “feed-in feed-out” entity
where evidence-based findings are submitted and extracted via a
secured ‘gateway’ by expert professional practitioners. The
resource is considered an ‘Internet of Things’ model to also
inform and consult families of people diagnosed with
impairments or patients undergoing treatment. Recommended
intervention apparatus include bespoke/custom systems as well as
commercially available systems. ‘In-action’ and ‘On-action’
models for have emerged from the research. This means that
therapists adopting ICT into their work have a wealth of prior
studies to guide their choices of hardware, software and
intervention method and analysis without having to wade
through academic or scientific articles, papers and book
chapters. Through dissemination of the concept at this early
phase of development in establishing the resource, an open
invitation for peers and related interested parties to critique,
advise, and otherwise contribute toward optimal development
and wide impact is offered.