Video games and a robotic glove that help stroke survivors regain dexterity in their hands and arms. A robot named Casper that assists older adults with everything from fixing a tuna sandwich to communicating with loved ones.
These are just some of the technologies being developed by University of Toronto researchers to help people live comfortably in old age, easing the burden on caregivers and the health-care system as a whole. And, tomorrow, some of those researchers will have an opportunity to meet with legislators at the first in a series of MPP Public Policy Breakfasts.
The event at Queen's Park, hosted by the Council of Ontario Universities, will focus on how university experts are helping to end “hallway medicine” – a term that refers to hospital overcrowding and the practice of treating patients on stretchers in hallways while they wait for a bed.
“By working together, universities, health-system partners, the private sector and government can address the medical challenges facing us today and in the future,” said Vivek Goel, U of T’s vice-president of research and innovation.
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Image via Geoffrey Vendeville.