Intensive therapy centre offers the latest tech in WA first

WA-based disability service provider, Therapy Focus, is set to open an intensive therapy centre offering access to state-of-the-art equipment and assistive technology, including a device that is the first of its kind in the state.

Known as ReFocus, the therapy centre is designed to support people with disability who require access to complex equipment for rehabilitation. Project Lead and Senior Physiotherapist, Shannen Stanes said ReFocus will support people who are unable to access mainstream gyms.

“ReFocus provides a safe and controlled space where people can work on their skills in areas like mobility, communication and environmental control with consistent support from their therapist,” Shannen said.

“The centre accommodates short, intensive blocks of therapy suitable for people who haven’t seen success with ongoing therapy at home or in community environments. Evidence has shown that delivering therapy this way helps people develop the functional skills and confidence they need to eventually transition to community-based therapy and rehabilitation.”

With funding support from Telethon and the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation, the centre has been fitted out with gym-style equipment, including a reformer, cross trainer, and a weight-bearing device called a LiteGait. It also offers access to communication devices and access technology, including switches, eye-gaze, environmental controls and adaptive gaming.

ReFocus is also the only therapy centre in Western Australia to offer access to an immersive, multi-sensory device called a Magic Mirror™. The interactive projection system displays motion-responsive games and activities on a wall.

“The Magic Mirror’s camera sensor detects 26 joints of the human body and any number of these joints can be configured as controllers. This means, when a user moves part of their body, they can interact with objects displayed in the projection,” Shannen said.

By bringing together such a wide range of equipment and technology, ReFocus also hopes to reduce lengthy wait times for device trials and support trialling of a number of items in one convenient location. People are also able to practice using devices at the centre while they wait for funding and delivery.

The benefits afforded by the centre extend beyond what is on offer for people with disability. ReFocus also enables flexibility in service delivery, increased efficiencies and learning opportunities for therapists.

“We’re proud to offer therapists access to evidence-based equipment and assistive technology they may not have the opportunity to use otherwise,” Shannen said.

“Not only are they able to have a greater impact when it comes to helping customers achieve their goals, but they are also exposed to new and innovative technologies – and with that comes a world of learning and development opportunities.

ReFocus is just one of the ways we’re working to transform the way therapy is delivered in WA.”

The ReFocus centre has been utilised by Therapy Focus customers and therapists since May 2023 and will open its doors to the public from June 2023. For more information or to make a referral, call 1300 135 373 or email [email protected].