Digital technologies hold immense potential to transform the field of rehabilitation and enable greater community participation for individuals with disabilities. In the Handbook of Research on Advances in Digital Technologies to Promote Rehabilitation and Community Participation, a comprehensive exploration of these cutting-edge technologies and their impact is presented, and it delves into various digital solutions, such as virtual reality, tele-rehabilitation, mobile apps, rehabilitation platforms, and more. The book sheds light on the applications to promote rehabilitation and enhance community involvement. It provides a profound understanding of how these technologies can facilitate remote rehabilitation, foster self-management of illnesses, support independent living, and enhance communication and social participation. Furthermore, it emphasizes the accessibility of information and resources that digital technologies provide, unlocking new possibilities for individuals with disabilities. However, this research goes beyond mere exploration and also examines the challenges and opportunities associated with these digital advancements. The ethical considerations that arise in the utilization of these technologies are addressed, emphasizing the need for responsible and considerate implementation.

Designed as a compendium of knowledge and theoretical foundations, this handbook offers invaluable guidance for a wide range of readers. Students interested in developing innovative technologies for healthcare can gain insights into novel approaches and methodologies. Health practitioners will discover ways to seamlessly integrate digital solutions into their practices, enhancing the rehabilitation experiences of their patients. Developers, too, will find this resource invaluable, as it deepens their understanding of the specific needs of the target population and guides the creation of solutions that address those needs effectively.

The Handbook of Research on Advances in Digital Technologies to Promote Rehabilitation and Community Participation underscores the immense potential of digital technologies in transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities. It advocates for the integration of these technologies into rehabilitation programs and services, empowering individuals with disabilities to maximize their independence and engagement within their communities. By sharing groundbreaking research and practical insights, this handbook paves the way for a future where digital technologies serve as catalysts for inclusive and transformative rehabilitation practices.

Coverage:

The many academic areas covered in this publication include, but are not limited to:

Accessibility Challenges
Community Participation
Creating Resources
Digital Technologies
Disabilities
Ethical Considerations
Illness Self-Management
Independent Living
Information Access
Rehabilitation and Remote Rehabilitation
Social Participation
Telerehabilitation

Table of Contents

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Editor/Author Biographies

Raquel Simões de Almeida is a professor at the School of Health - Polytechnic of Porto and an invited lecturer at Santa Maria Health School. She has a BSc in Occupational Therapy, an MSc in Mental Health and Psychosocial Rehabilitation, and a Ph.D. in Psychology. She is a researcher in the field of Health and Technologies at the Center for Rehabilitation Research, and she has a postgraduate degree in Digital Health and in Pedagogical Innovation and Educational Change. She was responsible for coordinating several national and international social projects in the areas of health, e-health, and empowerment of vulnerable groups. She developed, for example, a mobile application for illness self-management for people with schizophrenia, a platform for health literacy, and many b-learning courses for health issues. Some of her interests are new technologies transforming healthcare, active living, mental health, and well-being.

Vitor Simões-Silva has a PhD in Education and Behavioral Science since 2015 and currently is Occupation Therapy professor in School of Health of the Polytechnic Institute of Porto (ESS-P. Porto), Portugal, with interest in paediatrics, youth, disability and lifestyle fields. Is also a collaborating researcher at the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Lab (LabRP) of the Center for Rehabilitation Research (CIR) of ESS-P.Porto, integrating the Recovery and Social Innovation investigation group. His main research areas include the well-being in cases of several diseases and the paper of virtual reality and technologies of support to the treatment. Has several contributions to national and international research projects.

Maria João Trigueiro is an occupational therapist and lecturer with interest in the field of pediatrics, neurology and lifestyle redesign. Full Professor at the Health School (ESS-P.Porto). She has contributed in several national and international research projects regarding disability and social exclusion. As Professor she teaches at the degree and master levels both at ESS-P.Porto and at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences – University of Porto (FPCEUP). She participates as a staff member in the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Lab ( ), and on the Porto Interactive Neuroscience Group ( ), Her research interests are related with the wellbeing of people who suffer from neuro, musculoskeletal and motor control dysfunction (children and adults) throughout helping with their Lifestyle Redesign, and the Use of Interactive and Virtual Reality Technologies in the treatment of different pathologies, in both children and adults.

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