Research
Objectives
The Community Health Rehabilitation Research Laboratory (CHRRL) is directed by Dr. Stephanie Silveira. Our research program focuses on developing ecologically valid, evidence-based health behavior change interventions that are appropriate for improving clinically-relevant outcomes across the lifespan and in chronically-disabling disorders, like multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury. Our mission is to improve the health and quality of life for individuals across the lifespan and in those living with chronic neurological conditions and mobility impairments through engaging in practical and enjoyable health behaviors. Our lab further focuses on engaging graduate students in all aspects of the research, thus providing pre-professional students with practical work experience through exposure to clinical populations and exercise-based medicine in order to benefit the larger community.
Projects
Feasibility and Initial Efficacy of a Wheelchair Exercise-training Intervention
The Seated Physical activity INtervention (SPIN) study is examining the feasibility and initial efficacy of a stakeholder-informed, home-based, remotely supported and supervised exercise training program for wheelchair users with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Assessment of the Gaitmate Application
The Assessment of the Gaitmate Application for Activities of Daily Living, Gait Metrics, and Falls is a research project directed by Dr. Stephanie Silveira. Our study focuses on utilizing smartphone-based gait analysis and machine learning algorithms for personalized fall risk assessment. The goal is to determine whether the Gaitmate technology can effectively reduce fall incidence among older adults by providing real-time, personalized fall risk assessments and interventions. Through this research, we aim to contribute to the advancement of mobile health technology in fall prevention, ultimately improving mobility, safety, and quality of life for older adults. This is a collaborative effort with faculty in the Schools of Public Health, Nursing, and McGovern Medical School.
