Innovative Rehabilitation Approaches for Veterans in Odessa
The Odessa Department of Health is actively implementing new rehabilitation methods for Ukraine's defenders, particularly through adaptive sports. Recently, a meeting was held at the city council focused on the prevention and treatment of stress-related disorders among military personnel and veterans, emphasizing physical activity and esports.
The meeting included specialists from various medical fields, such as rehabilitation specialists, physiotherapists, sports doctors, and psychologists, along with representatives from the Department of Physical Culture and Sports.
Vasyl Rybak, head of the rehabilitation department, discussed the positive impact of esports and virtual reality on physical and mental health. Sports activities not only improve motor functions but also enhance cognitive skills, emotional regulation, sleep quality, and self-discipline.
The initiative aims to develop a comprehensive program for the prevention and treatment of stress disorders with a focus on social adaptation. Plans include the implementation of international health activity methodologies, drawing from experiences in the USA and the UK, and combining physical and virtual activities.
It is proposed to establish working groups within healthcare facilities providing rehabilitation services to integrate esports. All institutions will receive unified methodological recommendations and will be able to tailor rehabilitation programs to individual patient needs.
It is expected that the introduction of esports in rehabilitation departments will lead to improved physical conditions for participants, reduced stress and anxiety levels, as well as the formation of communities for social support.
Veterans who participated in the meeting also shared their positive rehabilitation experiences through adaptive sports and demonstrated the use of virtual reality systems for individuals with disabilities.
