Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Theme 2: Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care Therapeutic Effects of Electrical Vestibular Stimulation (EVS) on Gait and Balance What if improving balance in older adults didn’t require intensive therapy or hard-to-access services, but could start with a small wearable that helps the brain relearn stability over time? Lead Jocelyn Rempel (Co-Investigator and Advisor) Co-lead Ryan Peters (Chief Science Officer) Additional Contributors John Ralston (CEO & Co-Founder) Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THE CHALLENGE People over 40 face rising fall risk due to reduced balance retention, and falls in seniors often result in loss of independence, long-term health challenges, and increased reliance on family or healthcare services. Limited healthcare resources and workforce shortages further restrict access to post-surgical and long-term recovery support. Sustainable therapies for restoring balance are scarce, and current balance and gait tools cannot prevent falls or deliver lasting results, leaving a major gap in effective fall-prevention solutions. THE CHALLENGE People over 40 face rising fall risk due to reduced balance retention, and falls in seniors often result in loss of independence, long-term health challenges, and increased reliance on family or healthcare services. Limited healthcare resources and workforce shortages further restrict access to post-surgical and long-term recovery support. Sustainable therapies for restoring balance are scarce, and current balance and gait tools cannot prevent falls or deliver lasting results, leaving a major gap in effective fall-prevention solutions. THE INNOVATION Innovation Overview Heading HOW IT WORKS HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. [Innovation Overview] This project focuses on understanding and addressing the technological acceptance barriers among older adults in Central Alberta. By comparing the usage and attitudes of those living independently, with partners, or in care facilities, the initiative identifies gaps and opportunities to design more inclusive, user-friendly digital health solutions. Surveys and in-depth interviews gather insights into older adults’ experiences with existing eHealth and mHealth platforms, with a focus on their potential for improving healthcare access and supporting healthy aging. [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. THE INNOVATION The team at Neursantys has developed a wearable device designed to maintain and restore vestibular balance function and motor control. Originally created to counter accelerated balance aging in astronauts exposed to microgravity, the device now supports balance maintenance, gait restoration, and fall prevention in older adults. Using low-level, non-invasive electrical vestibular stimulation (EVS), it activates long-lasting neuroplastic improvements in balance and gait. Its simple U-shaped form rests comfortably around the neck and shoulders during treatment. Early research shows strong potential for older adults and people with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and cognitive decline. HOW IT WORKS The wearable delivers low-level electrical vestibular stimulation (EVS) to retrain the brain’s balance systems and restore motor control. Users complete 18 guided sessions over six weeks, each lasting 20 minutes. The U-shaped device fits comfortably around the neck and shoulders, making treatment easy to administer in clinical or home settings. THE BENEFITS For Users Improved Balance and Stability: Reduces the risk of falls by supporting vestibular health and enhancing balance retention. Sustainable, Non-invasive Therapy Option: Offers a convenient, non-invasive treatment with long-lasting results, empowering seniors to take an active role in their balance care. Greater Independence: Helps seniors regain control over their mobility, reducing reliance on family and healthcare services. For The System Improved Balance and Stability: Reduces the risk of falls by supporting vestibular health and enhancing balance retention. Sustainable, Non-invasive Therapy Option: Offers a convenient, non-invasive treatment with long-lasting results, empowering seniors to take an active role in their balance care. Greater Independence: Helps seniors regain control over their mobility, reducing reliance on family and healthcare services. THE BENEFITS For Users Improved Balance and Stability: Reduces the risk of falls by supporting vestibular health and enhancing balance retention. Sustainable, Non-invasive Therapy Option: Offers a convenient, non-invasive treatment with long-lasting results, empowering seniors to take an active role in their balance care. Greater Independence: Helps seniors regain control over their mobility, reducing reliance on family and healthcare services. For The System Improved Balance and Stability: Reduces the risk of falls by supporting vestibular health and enhancing balance retention. Sustainable, Non-invasive Therapy Option: Offers a convenient, non-invasive treatment with long-lasting results, empowering seniors to take an active role in their balance care. Greater Independence: Helps seniors regain control over their mobility, reducing reliance on family and healthcare services. Ready to Keep Exploring? If you’d like to learn more or connect about Therapeutic Effects of Electrical Vestibular Stimulation (EVS) on Gait and Balance , reach out to Jocelyn Rempel, Project Lead , at: mailto:jlrempel@mtroyal.ca Get Involved Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. View Portfolio Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together.

Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link / Lead Co-lead Project Contributors Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THE CHALLENGE THE INNOVATION Innovation Overview Heading HOW IT WORKS HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. [Innovation Overview] This project focuses on understanding and addressing the technological acceptance barriers among older adults in Central Alberta. By comparing the usage and attitudes of those living independently, with partners, or in care facilities, the initiative identifies gaps and opportunities to design more inclusive, user-friendly digital health solutions. Surveys and in-depth interviews gather insights into older adults’ experiences with existing eHealth and mHealth platforms, with a focus on their potential for improving healthcare access and supporting healthy aging. [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. THE INNOVATION HOW IT WORKS THE BENEFITS For Users For The System Ready to Keep Exploring? Get Involved Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. View Portfolio Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together.

Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THEME # Title Goes Here [1-2 sentence summary of the project.] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium, praesent ac gravidas. Lead Name Surname Co-lead Name Surname Project Contributors Name Surname, Name Surname Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link Share this project LinkedIn X (Twitter) Copy link THE CHALLENGE [Challenge Summary] In Canada, adults with multiple chronic conditions frequently use healthcare services and experience poor health outcomes, with hospital admissions consuming 30% of healthcare spending. Readmissions are both common and costly, especially for vulnerable populations, underscoring the need for new models that promote continuity of care and reduce reliance on hospitals. Patients often experience fragmented care, moving between specialists and wards without consistent support, leading to repeated admissions and inadequate post-discharge care. Additionally, adults with multiple chronic conditions account for 30% of healthcare spending, with frequent, costly readmissions underscoring the need for models that reduce hospital reliance and promote better care continuity. THE INNOVATION Innovation Overview Heading HOW IT WORKS HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. [Innovation Overview] This project focuses on understanding and addressing the technological acceptance barriers among older adults in Central Alberta. By comparing the usage and attitudes of those living independently, with partners, or in care facilities, the initiative identifies gaps and opportunities to design more inclusive, user-friendly digital health solutions. Surveys and in-depth interviews gather insights into older adults’ experiences with existing eHealth and mHealth platforms, with a focus on their potential for improving healthcare access and supporting healthy aging. [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. THE INNOVATION [Innovation Overview] This project focuses on understanding and addressing the technological acceptance barriers among older adults in Central Alberta. By comparing the usage and attitudes of those living independently, with partners, or in care facilities, the initiative identifies gaps and opportunities to design more inclusive, user-friendly digital health solutions. Surveys and in-depth interviews gather insights into older adults’ experiences with existing eHealth and mHealth platforms, with a focus on their potential for improving healthcare access and supporting healthy aging. HOW IT WORKS [How It Works Summary] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Praesent ac gravida tellus. Nulla ut ex eget odio vehicula rutrum. Curabitur eleifend tortor nec orci placerat, vel tempus lacus euismod. Aliquam rhoncus vel libero vel semper. Suspendisse potenti. Cras hendrerit aliquet dui, vitae dapibus nisi congue vel. THE BENEFITS For Users Enhanced Accessibility: Older adults gain access to specialized care and remote health monitoring without the need for extensive travel. Reduced Anxiety: User-friendly platforms designed for older adults improve confidence and ease of use. Support for Independent Living: Digital tools enable older adults to maintain health and well-being while aging in place. For The System Inclusive Technology Design: Insights help developers create healthcare platforms that better meet the needs of older adults. Improved Healthcare Access: Addressing adoption barriers leads to more widespread use of digital health tools, improving health outcomes for underserved populations. Enhanced Quality of Life: Reduced isolation and more efficient care delivery contribute to better overall health and well-being. Ready to Keep Exploring? If you’d like to learn more or connect about [Project Name] , reach out to [Full Name], Project Lead , at: contact@email.com Get Involved Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet metus sed lorem tincidunt pretium. Learn More View other projects and explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are transforming care across the province. View Portfolio Explore the Health Everywhere Portfolio to see how local innovations are solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of care across the province. ABOUT The Health Everywhere Hub portfolio map showcases academic-led projects tackling real healthcare challenges across Alberta. By highlighting shared goals and commonalities, we hope to spark collaboration and amplify impact across the system. It’s more than a list of projects - this evolving collection shows what’s possible when partnerships, bold ideas, and real-world testing come together.

Stay up to date about the most recent developments from Health Everywhere and the wider innovation community by accessing the latest news. News Filters Publication Year All Years 2023 2022 Theme 4 2024 Articles All Articles Theme 1 Theme 2 Theme 3 Theme 4 General Articles UCalgary-based program expands province-wide GENERAL SPARK program receives grant from Alberta Innovates, supporting post-secondary innovators across Alberta. September 11, 2023 3 UCalgary projects receive $20.3M in provincial innovation grants GENERAL UCalgary's innovation ecosystem just received a $20.3-million boost, thanks to Alberta's Major Innovation Fund. September 6, 2023 Theme 1 - Bridging Community and Acute Care Uniting researchers, decision-makers, and digital health innovators to ensure seamless, inclusive, and scalable healthcare implementation in acute and community-based care settings. Advancing eHealth innovation to enable intelligent patient monitoring THEME 1 Partnerships with Xsensor and Baxter to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on patient outcomes and detect early... January 2024 Health innovation for infection prevention and control THEME 1 This bundle of projects focuses on industry partnerships and the application of eHealth tools to... Date TBD Theme 2 - Remote Monitoring and Virtual Care By leveraging academic research, industry collaboration, and community engagement, Health Everywhere creates a foundation for scaling virtual and mobile health innovations for virtual care. Enhancing recovery after surgery THEME 2 An international program with Alberta leadership that aims to use rehabilitation both prior and following... January 2024 Improving specialist access programs THEME 2 Leveraging new technologies and workflows to provide rural and remote patients access to specialized... Date TBD Theme 3 - Connectivity and Data Access We face significant challenges with the lack of health data integration, leading to interoperability issues among patients and care providers. This theme seeks to establish secure and seamless data access and interoperability for improved healthcare. Building the basic infrastructure to allow data to flow securely THEME 3 Evaluate distributed data vending (DDV) with blockchain to transform electronic health records (EHRs) by encouraging... Date TBD Developing a pipeline for exceptional analytics and research THEME 3 Develop a synthetic data sandbox that drives innovation by allowing innovators to develop products using synthetic... Date TBD Theme 4 - Integrated Innovation Ecosystem Support By addressing gaps and opportunities in the current ecosystem, our aim is to create a dynamic eHealth and mHealth ecosystem, by identifying resources, matching them with innovators, and improving overall integration. Evaluating the current eHealth and mHealth ecosystem THEME 4 A series of projects to better understand the factors, processes, and tools needed to support a vibrant ecosystem. This... Date TBD Bespoke ecosystem support services THEME 4 While innovators experience challenges navigating the support available to them, there are also unique services... Date TBD

Our Operations Team Alex Baron graduated from the University of Alberta Augustana Campus in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts – English, and then completed a Bachelor of Arts – Communications from the University of Calgary in 2016. In his career, Alex has had the opportunity to work in some truly unique places, allowing him to pursue his two key interests – creating memorable guest experiences and telling great stories . This includes working at the Walt Disney World Resort, Heritage Park Historical Village, and the University of Calgary. His interests outside of work include travel and photography. Communications Advisor Alex Baron  alex.baron@ucalgary.ca Jill de Grood jointly leads the W21C Research and Innovation Centre with Dr. Jaime Kaufman, PhD. Together, Jill and Jaime support the strategic direction of the initiative, promoting W21C’s value proposition as an organization dedicated to research, innovation, and education . They support day-to-day W21C operations and processes, and lead specific portfolios. ​ Jill completed her Master’s degree in Sociology at the University of Calgary. Her thesis project examined factors impacting lawyer’s physical and mental health. She completed a Certificate in Professional Management in 2015 and received her Project Management Professional Certification in 2018. ​ Jill has been in an evolving leadership role with W21C for more than nine years, and became Director of the Centre in 2013. Over the years, Jill has led and been involved in numerous industry partner projects in areas such as technology assessment, infection prevention and control, and examining the effectiveness and impact of health care innovations for patient care. Jill is a published author with fourteen journal publications along with a number of knowledge translation pieces. ​ As Director of Development and Partnerships, Jill continues to bring a strategic perspective to the W21C, to solve challenges and identify opportunities for the Centre. Jill is responsible for establishing and enhancing new and existing community partnerships with government and external organizations. Jill oversees the clinical trials and human factors teams in conjunction with Michelle Wright. She is also accountable for externally focused innovation support programs like SPARK Calgary. W21C Leadership Representative Jill de Grood  gjde@ucalgary.ca Maryam has a Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation degree and a Master of Management degree, both from the University of Calgary. Specializing in strategy, project management, and stakeholder relations, Maryam has successfully led teams, managed projects, and executed plans within diverse business domains. Her expertise includes strategic analysis, client communication, and a detail-oriented approach to data management . Maryam brings a unique blend of academic excellence, professional acumen, and a passion for community service to every project, making her a dynamic and versatile contributor to the W21C team. Operations Coordinator Maryam Ali  maryam.ali1@ucalgary.ca Shane holds a master’s degree in Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University and is a Project Management Institute certified Project Management Professional. He has extensive experience in leading interdisciplinary teams, strategic planning, and working with various stakeholder groups . Prior to joining the W21C, Shane developed and managed a variety of projects relating to pediatric health outcomes, health technology, and neuroscience with the Alberta Children’s Hospital Neuropsychology Service. He has also previously worked as a Research Coordinator with the University of Calgary Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre and as a Research Associate with the Simon Fraser University Injury Prevention and Mobility Lab. Prior to his role as Program Manager, Shane coordinated the W21C Digital Health Colloboratorium initiative. Outside of work, Shane enjoys participating in a variety of sports including hockey, basketball, and skiing. Hub Manager Shane Virani  shane.virani@ucalgary.ca