The William Lennox Neurological Hospital Center (CHNWL) has just acquired, thanks to a donation to the Lennox Fund, a latest generation car driving simulator, intended for neurological rehabilitation. This device, based on virtual reality and integrating various driving scenarios, allows patients to gradually regain their autonomy behind the wheel in a secure environment.
Learning to drive again after a brain injury is a significant challenge for many patients, often requiring a break from driving of six months or more. This cutting-edge simulator, unique in Wallonia, offers an immersive experience that meets the specific needs of neuropsychological and occupational therapy rehabilitation. “For us, offering this innovative technology to our patients was obvious,” explains Olivier d’Arripe, paramedical coordinator at CHNWL. “The simulator helps stimulate and evaluate essential cognitive functions while providing a practical framework for adapting motor skills.”
Technically, the simulator is flexible, making it possible to reproduce various driving contexts: in town, in the countryside, with heavy traffic or difficult weather conditions. “The technology allows us to objectively measure patients’ progress in relation to driving,” he adds.
Therapeutic benefits for cognitive and motor rehabilitation
This simulator constitutes a valuable tool for therapists. “Through real driving situations, we evaluate attentional functions, such as patients’ ability to pay attention and react,” explains Myrte Reniers, neuropsychologist at CHNWL. She adds: “We also measure executive skills, such as impulsivity, anticipation, flexibility and adaptation to sudden changes – for example, when a pedestrian crosses the road.”
The psychological benefits are also significant. The simulator provides patients with a sense of safety and control, reducing the anxiety often associated with rehabilitation. This virtual immersion helps them regain self-confidence and motivation. “The simulator also allows you to work on ‘double tasks’, such as driving while chatting with a passenger or following the instructions of a GPS,” she specifies, emphasizing that these mundane tasks represent challenges for people affected. neurological disorders.
Learning adapted to specific motor needs
The simulator also provides a training environment for patients with impaired motor functions. “They learn to master devices such as an automatic transmission or a steering wheel ball, while continuing the classic actions: putting on their seat belt, using the indicators, etc.,” explains Julie Klinck, occupational therapist at CHNWL. “Patients have the necessary time to train and integrate these devices at their own pace.”
Motivated and confident patients
For patients, this simulator proves to be a valuable and motivating tool. “With the driving simulator, I realize all the little mistakes I make now. Being able to train in a fun way is reassuring and motivating,” confides a patient. “For me, it’s important to be able to drive. Driving is autonomy, freedom.”
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