A New UAE service uses robots to help kids with disabilities walk

The Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) has introduced a new robot-assisted training device at its care and rehabilitation centre in Al Ain to help children of determination walk. This initiative is a result of a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) and is the second device to be added to ZHO’s Smart Rehabilitation Laboratory Devices. The robot-assisted therapy facilitates intensive training that leverages neuroplasticity and recovery potential, thereby enabling children to walk with greater ease.

Abdullah Abdul Ali Al Humaidan, the Secretary-General of ZHO, stated that the organization is committed to providing advanced technology and services to meet the increasing demand for therapy and rehabilitation services. He further added that the device was launched in Al Ain to make the therapy sessions more accessible to the organization’s members in the city.

Eng. Thamer Al Qasimi, the Executive Director of ECA’s Special Projects and Partnerships Sector, emphasized the importance of empowering children with determination and providing them with high-quality services to improve their quality of life. Moza Al Muhairi, the Chair of ZHO’s Al Ain Care and Rehabilitation Center, revealed that six therapists from the Al Ain area were trained to use the device, and the therapy sessions began in early January for 20 beneficiaries.

She added that studies and research would be conducted to review the results of using the device and to determine its effectiveness. The introduction of this new robot-assisted training device is a step towards enhancing the mobility of children of determination and enabling them to lead better lives.