Samira Mehrabi

Research Interests: Sam worked for several years as a physical therapist before returning to academic in order to keep up with emerging knowledge in the field of geriatric exercise and well-being. She knew she could translate her clinical experience and expertise into practical research innovations. Sam is interested in exploring the impact of exercise on older adult’s physical and mental well-being. In particular, her research focuses on using technological innovations (such as virtual reality [VR] and exergames) to promote exercise engagement among older adults with cognitive impairments and mood disorders. She hopes to encourage older adults to stay physically active and engage in exercise regularly to benefit their physical and psychological health and build social connections. 

Current Studies: In addition to assiting in clinical assessments and SYNERGIC exercise interventions, Sam is involved in designing, developing, and evaluating a set of VR exergames that are tailored to the unique needs and abilities of persons living with dementia to encourage physical activity participation and improve quality of life in dementia, and explore what facilitates/limits their engagement in VR exergames. In this project, she is collaborating with experts in assistive technologies, the Games Institute, VR technologists, exercise professionals, and persons living with dementia. Sam is also working toward recruitment for a study examining barriers, facilitators, and the role of technology in promoting and maintaining home-based physical activity participation for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. She hopes to inform adaptability of future home-based exercise programing to prepare exercise professionals and older adults for other unexpected situations such as inclement weather or a pandemic.