Prof. Camillo Di Giulio Department of Neuroscience and Imaging CHIETI University

It is a great pleasure to invite you to the 10^th IBRA Conference organized by the International Biophilia Rehabilitation Academy.

The Conference will highlight the most relevant issues in the management of a spectrum of disabilities related to diseases as well as those developing in the process of ‘normal’ physiological aging. The aim will be achieved by presenting the latest developments in basic and clinical research and in technical progress concerning the rehabilitative aids.

The term ‘Biophilia’ literally means ’love of life`, which pertains to human desire to live as long and well as possible. That is actually what medical rehabilitation is all about, i.e., to counteract disabilities developing as a result of disease or aging process and to make the quality of life better.. The IBRA is an international body uniting rehabilitators, physicians, and other medical professionals as well as engineering experts in designing rehabilitation aids. The organization advocates `motivated rehabilitation`, a unique approach to rehabilitation in which the rehabilitant actively expresses a desire to lessen disability, as opposed to passive rehabilitation performed by rehabilitators.

The IBRA 2013 will address rehabilitation practices across different countries and hopefully will provide some guidelines for the best practice of rehabilitating programs. Rehabilitation is contemporarily understood not only as improvement or repair of lost physical functions due to diseases, but also as part of specific treatment, prophylaxis, or antiaging strategies, all of which is expected to increase physical and mental agility.

The IBRA 2013 will provide a unique environment to network with colleagues from various parts of the world, offering an interactive venue for exciting scientific exchanges. Participating in the IBRA 2013you endeavor to contribute to the improvement of people's lives and welfare, in particular, those who live into old age. You will share your wisdom and keep up with the latest developments in basic and clinical aspects and innovations in rehabilitation medicine.

Welcome to IBRA 2013