WO1996036306A1

WO1996036306A1 - Multi-purpose activity and exercise system

Info

Publication number: WO1996036306A1
Application number: PCT/US1996/006836
Authority: WO
Inventors: Herman James Rottinghaus; Eli Saul Asher; Stephen William Butcher; Anthony Mark Demore; Soo Hyun Ham
Original assignee: Scicare Systems International, Incorporated
Priority date: 1995-05-17
Filing date: 1996-05-13
Publication date: 1996-11-21
Also published as: AU5745796A

Abstract

A multi-purpose activity and exercise system having a multi-function chair and a multi-function tray is configurable to function in a chair application, a walker application, or a rocker application. Various embodiments of activity modules are connectable with the multi-function tray. Various embodiments of exercise modules are connectable with the multi-function tray, and other embodiments of exercise modules are connectable with the multi-function chair. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system is adjustable for use by different size persons, and is adjustable for use by persons having different physical abilities.

Description

MULTI-PURPOSE ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE SYSTEM

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to exercise and entertainment devices and more specifically to a multi-purpose unit that functions as a seat or as a walker, and that also functions as a base platform for mounting various types of entertainment and activity modules and various types of exercise modules with which an individual seated in the seat can safely interact.

Background of the Invention

Due to improved standards of living and significant advances in health care, people are living longer than at any time in the past. Longer life spans, however, are frequently accompanied by a loss of mental abilities, physical abilities, or both. Persons who enjoy the benefit of a long life span often become frail, experience mental and physical functional limitations and can become nona bulatory. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Center for Health Statistics, 62% of nursing home patients are nonambulatory. The majority of the residents of nursing homes have one or more of these infirmities and often these individuals also lose their ability to perform many routine tasks including activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and other routine tasks. The loss of mental and physical abilities of the elderly person is often related to a lack of mental and physical activity. Therefore a great need exists to provide the physical and mental stimulation that elderly people, particularly the frail elderly, need to prolong and to enhance the quality of their lives. For the elderly in nursing homes, in assisted living environments and in private homes these needs are largely unmet.

Numerous medical studies have confirmed the benefits of an exercise program for even the most frail individual. Improvements in flexibility and strength resulting in an enhanced ability to walk and to perform other activities of daily living, reductions in high blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as well as an improved mental outlook have been demonstrated in research studies that involved exercise programs for the elderly. Recent research noted improvements in bone density among a group of 90 year old and up persons who were involved in a regular exercise program thus leading to the hypothesis that regular exercise could help reduce falls and the potential for bone fractures. Exercise has been shown to result in a higher quality of life for the elderly. Current exercise equipment does not meet the needs of the majority of frail and/or nonambulatory persons and is not adaptable for use by these persons. Current exercise devices are not effective in improving a frail and/or nonambulatory person's physical abilities so as to make that individual more independent and more able to perform routine activities of daily living independence.

Despite the evidence of the numerous physical and mental benefits of exercise for the elderly, very few nursing homes, other long term care facilities and assisted living facilities provide an effective exercise program for their residents nor do they have equipment to offer such a program. Furthermore the additional support necessary which would permit the frail and/or nonambulatory elderly person to participate in an exercise program without the risk of falling and injuring themselves does not exist. Falls are a major cause of injury for elderly persons and are, in fact, the leading cause of death by injury for those 75 years and older. Exercise programs in nursing homes, other long term care facilities and assisted living communities can be very cost effective by increasing the muscle strength in the legs and hips of frail individuals thus improving the person's ability to walk and thereby helping to prevent these persons from falling. Individuals who fall frequently incur cuts and broken bones which are very expensive for the long term care facility and for the general medical care system to treat. Treating one person for a broken bone resulting from a fall could easily cost more than the total cost of providing the necessary support equipment and personnel to implement an effective exercise program.

The improved mental outlook/attitude of the elderly persons participating in a regular exercise program is only partly due to their feeling better physically. A major reason for their improved mental state is the greater degree of independence they develop in being able to care for themselves. Dependence on others to assist with self-care functions and other activities of daily living have a negative affect on an individual's self-esteem and human dignity. These feelings can cause numerous other problems such as depression, anxiety or discipline problems in the living environment.

Most of the residents in nursing homes and other long term care facilities suffer from some form of dementia. This is also a common affliction among the elderly being cared for in assisted living communities and in home care situations . The boredom of living in an institutional setting and the lack of activities for entertainment and/or mental stimulation of the residents often results in behavior problems and/or an acceleration of the decline of the mental abilities of the residents. Activities that entertain, stimulate or occupy the minds of elderly persons help to reduce the onset of depression and more mild forms of mental illness, prevent behavior problems and can help deter the deterioration of cognitive ability. Current equipment and products do not provide the mental stimulus or entertainment needed to help the afflicted individuals.

A need exists for an activity and exercise system that allows the caregiver to offer entertaining and stimulating activities as well as exercise in a safe environment requiring limited individual supervision. The need exists for an activity and exercise system that improves a frail person's mental and physical functional abilities, minimizes the probability of that person falling and becoming injured, maximizes that persons daily living independence, enhances the quality of life of the person and enhances the individual's self-image and human dignity.

Summary of the Invention According to the present invention, a multi-purpose activity and exercise system comprising a ulti-function chair and a multi¬ function tray is provided. The multi-function chair includes a right vertical panel with a first leg extending down from the forward half section and a second leg extending down from the rearward half section. The multi-function chair also includes a left vertical panel with a third leg extending down from the forward half section and a fourth leg extending down from the rearward half section. Each of the four legs has a separate foldable caster connected therewith, and each foldable caster is positionable both below a plane defined by the bottoms of the four legs and above the plane defined by the bottoms of the four legs. The multi-function chair also includes a back vertical panel that is connected with the rearward half section of the right vertical panel and with the rearward half section of said left vertical panel. The multi¬ function chair also includes a seat that is removably connectable with the rearward half section of the right vertical panel and with the rearward half section of the left vertical panel. The multi- function chair also includes a rocker platform that is removably connectable with each of the four legs. The multi-function tray is removably connectable with the forward half section of the right vertical panel and with the forward half section of the left vertical panel. The multi-function chair and the multi-function tray are configurable to function in either a chair application, a walker application, or a rocker application. Various embodiments of activity modules can be connected with the multi-function tray. Various embodiments of exercise modules can be connected with the multi-function tray and still other embodiments of exercise modules can be connected with the multi-function chair by interconnecting with the first leg and the third leg of the multi-function chair.

It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to provide a multi-purpose activity and exercise system that allows the caregiver to provide entertaining and stimulating activities for demented, frail, or nonambulatory persons to achieve treatment objectives while at the same time minimizing the risk of patient injury. It is a further advantage of the present invention to promote daily living independence for demented, frail, or nonambulatory persons by allowing the caregiver to provide activities to entertain and mentally stimulate the person's cognitive abilities and to provide exercise devices and exercise programs designed to help the dependent person to become more independent and to perform daily living activities without requiring caregiver assistance. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to allow the caregiver to provide frail or nonambulatory persons with an exercise program to improve that person's physical flexibility and strength. For example, the caregiver can provide a person with an exercise program that includes resistance training for increasing muscle strength and mass in the legs and hips, and to thus improve that person's walking ability and functional mobility. In addition, the caregiver can provide a frail or nonambulatory person with an exercise program that includes resistance training for strengthening that person's shoulders, arms, and hands while at the same time strengthening that person's leg and hip muscles, and to thus reduce that person's frailty and to improve the individual's overall physical condition. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to assist in restoring function to specific physical areas of a person as part of a rehabilitation program for achieving maximum self-sufficiency. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to provide an exercise program that improves an individual's cardiovascular performance. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to assist both in maintaining an individual's physical abilities and in restoring an individual's physical abilities to a level that allows that individual to function with fewer support devices. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to reduce the time demands and supervision requirements on the caregiver required for providing assistance to frail or nonambulatory persons participating in an exercise program. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to provide a safe system for offering entertaining and stimulating activities to occupy an individual's mind. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to avoid loss of daily living independence, or to delay additional loss of daily living independence, of frail or nonambulatory persons. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to minimize the rate of decline in the physical condition of a frail or nonambulatory persons. It is a still further advantage of the present invention to improve a person's mood, attitude, self-image, and general mental outlook. These and other advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from a detailed description of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings In the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, embodiments of the invention are illustrated, which, together with a general description of the invention given above, and the detailed description given below serve to exemplify the principles of this invention.

Figure 1 is a front perspective view of the multi-function chair in a chair application according to the present invention; Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the multi-function chair in a walker application according to the present invention;

Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the multi-function chair in a rocker application according to the present invention; Figure 4 is a sectional view of the multi-function chair taken along the line 4-4 of Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a removable and interchangeable sling seat for use with the multi-function chair in the walker application of Figure 2;

Figure 6 is a removable and interchangeable platform seat for use with the multi-function chair in the chair application of Figure 1 and in the rocker application of Figure 3; Figure 7A is a side view of a telescoping leg adjusted to a full extension position;

Figure 7B is a side view of a telescoping leg adjusted to a partial extension position; Figure 8A is a side view of a foldable caster on the bottom of a telescoping leg folded in a down position for use in the walker application of Figure 2;

Figure 8B is a side view of a foldable caster on the bottom of a telescoping leg folded in an up position for use with in the chair application of Figure 1 and use in the rocker application of Figure 3 ;

Figure 9 is a front perspective view of the removable headrest;

Figure 10 is a top view of the multi-function tray; Figure 11 is a perspective view of the tactile stimulator module;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the shape sorter module;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the driving station module; Figure 14 is a perspective view of the communications board module;

Figure 15 is a top view of a portion of the series of pictures of the communications board module of Figure 1 ;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of the hand pulley exercise module;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of the bicycle pedal exercise module;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of the foot pump exercise module; Figure 19 is a perspective view of the hand wheel exercise module; and

Figure 20 is a perspective view of the hand squeeze exercise module.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment

According to the present invention, a multi-purpose activity and exercise system for providing mental stimulation and physical exercise for demented, frail, or nonambulatory persons is disclosed. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system includes a multi- function chair, a multi-function tray, entertainment and mental stimulation modules, and exercise modules that can be configured with the multi-function chair and used by an individual seated in the chair. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system can be used to provide the degree of mental stimulation and physical exercise required for a range of demented, frail, or nonambulatory persons to enhance each such person's daily living independence and self-image.

The multi-purpose activity and exercise system functions both in an activity mode and in an exercise mode. In the activity mode, modules can be connected with the multi-function tray to allow a demented person to engage in a series of mental stimulus activities, including tactile stimulation, puzzles, shapes sorters, keys and locks, and other similar activities. Activities that allow a person to "connect" to his past, such as a typewriter or a calculator, can be connected to the multi-function tray and can function to stimulate the use of that person's hands to improve his manual dexterity while at the same time providing a stimulating and entertaining way of occupying his time. In the exercise mode, either the multi-function chair alone, or the multi-function chair in combination with exercise modules connected to either the multi- function tray or the multi-function chair, allow the person to safely engage in a series of physical exercises. For example, in the exercise mode the multi-function chair can function alone as a walker or as a rocker for exercising the person's legs, or the multi-function chair can function in combination with exercise modules connected to either the multi-function tray or the multi¬ function chair for exercising his body, including his ankles, legs, hips, hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, and other parts of his body utilizing a range of resistance devices. The exercises also provide enhanced cardiovascular performance. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system can be selectively adapted for accommodating a range of persons requiring varying mental stimulation activities, and for accommodating a range of persons requiring varying physical exercises. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system assists persons in improving both their mental functional abilities and their physical functional abilities, and allows caregivers to safely provide mental stimulation activities and physical exercises that cannot be provided using the prior activity and exercise systems. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system provides a stable platform for assisting the caregiver in providing demented, frail, or nonambulatory persons with both safe and effective mental stimulation and entertainment programs and physical exercise programs.

Multi-Purpose Activity and Exercise System 10 comprises Multi-Function Chair 100, Multi-Function Tray 200, Activity Modules 300, and Exercise Modules 400. Multi-Function Chair 100 is shown in a chair application in Figure 1, and can function both in an activity mode and in an exercise mode when configured as a chair. Multi-Function Chair 100 is shown in a walker application in Figure

2, and can function in an exercise mode when configured as a walker. Multi-Function Chair 100 is shown in a rocker application in Figure

3, and can function both in an activity mode and in an exercise mode when configured as a rocker. Multi-Function Chair 100 is preferred to be made of strong, lightweight materials so it can be handled easily by a single person. In addition, Multi-Function Chair 100 is preferred to have a design profile that allows it to be easily moved through doorways.

Referring to Figure l, Multi-Function Chair 100 includes Right Vertical Panel 102, Left Vertical Panel 104, and Back Vertical Panel 106. Back Vertical Panel 106 interconnects with the aft section of Right Vertical Panel 102 and with the aft section of Left Vertical Panel 104. It is to be appreciated that Right Vertical Panel 102, Left Vertical Panel 104, and Back Vertical Panel 106 can be made as a single-piece device forming a unitary structure, or as a multiple piece device interconnected using tongue-and-groove, friction fit, snap fit, or other connection means forming a unitary structure. Right Vertical Panel 102, Left Vertical Panel 104, and Back Vertical Panel 106 are preferred to be made of materials having a high strength-to-weight ratio as well as good wear resistance. Multi-Function Chair 100 also includes a removable and interchangeable sling-type chair seat for use in the walker application, and a removable and interchangeable platform-type chair seat for use in the chair application and the rocker application.

Referring to Figure 5, Sling Seat 108 functions in the walker application of Multi-Function Chair 100. Sling Seat 108 includes Front Mount 110, Rear Mount 112, and Seat Loop 114. Rear Mount 112 slides into Rear Channel 116 of Back 106 and slides down into Rear Channel Slot 118 for coupling Rear Mount 112 with Rear Channel Slot 118. Front Mount 110 slides into Right Channel 120 of Right Vertical Panel 102 and into Left Channel 122 of Left Vertical Panel 104 and slides down into Right Channel Slot 124 (not shown) and down into Left Channel Slot 126 (not shown) for coupling Front Mount 110 with Right Channel Slot 124 and Left Channel Slot 126. Front Mount 110 and Rear Mount 112 are preferred to be made of materials having a high strength-to-weight ratio as well as good wear resistance. Seat Loop 114 is preferred to be made of a material that is both water and dirt repellant, and that has sufficient strength to support the weight of a person using Multi- Function Chair 100 in the walker application. It is to be appreciated that other designs are contemplated for incorporating a removable and interchangeable sling-type chair seat. For example, a sling-type chair seat having a front mount could slide down into a slot in the right vertical panel and down into a slot in the left vertical panel of the multi-function chair. By way of further example, a sling-type seat having a pocket-shaped rear mount could slide over the top of the back vertical panel of the multi-function chair.

Referring to Figure 6, Platform Seat 128 functions both in the chair application of Multi-Function Chair 100 and in the rocker application of Multi-Function Chair 100. Platform Seat 128 includes Right Mount 130, Left Mount 132, Rear Mount 134, and Seat Belt 136. Rear Mount 134 slides into Rear Channel 116 of Back 106 and slides down into Rear Channel Slot 118 for coupling Rear Mount 134 with Rear Channel Slot 118. Right Mount 130 slides into Right Channel 120 of Right Vertical Panel 102, and slides down into Right Channel Slot 124 for coupling Right Mount 130 with Right Channel Slot 124. Left Mount 132 slides into Left Channel 122 of Left Vertical Panel 104 and slides down into Left Channel Slot 126 for coupling Left Mount 132 with Left Channel Slot 126. Seat Belt 136 can be used with Platform Seat 128 to support a person using Multi-Function Chair 100 at the waist. Platform Seat 128 is preferred to be a rigid device made of materials having a high strength-to-weight ratio as well as good wear resistance. In addition, Platform Seat 128 is preferred to have a soft cushion material covering the seating area as well as a breathable, washable outer cover material covering the soft cushion material. It is to be appreciated that other designs are contemplated for incorporating a removable and interchangeable platform-type chair seat. For example, a platform- type chair seat having a right mount, a left mount, and a rear mount could connect over the top of the right vertical panel, left vertical panel, and the back vertical panel of the multi-function chair, or could connect over the top of the right vertical panel and the left vertical panel and into the back vertical panel of the multi-function chair. By way of further example, a platform seat having a right mount and a left mount, thereby eliminating the rear mount, could connect with the right vertical panel and the left vertical panel of the multi-function chair, or could connect over the top of the right vertical panel and the left vertical panel of the multi-function chair.

Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 3, Multi-Function Chair 100 also includes Right Front Telescoping Leg 138, Left Front Telescoping Leg 140, Right Rear Telescoping Leg 142, and Left Rear Telescoping Leg 144 for adjusting the height of Multi-Function Chair 100 for use by different size patients in either the chair application, the walker application, or the rocker application. Figure 7A illustrates a typical telescoping leg arrangement wherein Left Front Telescoping Leg 140 is shown with the telescoping leg height adjusted to a full extension position. Figure 7B illustrates a typical telescoping leg arrangement wherein Left Front Telescoping Leg 140 is shown with the telescoping leg height adjusted to a partial extension position. It is to be appreciated that the four legs of multi-function chair can be standard legs. Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3, Multi-Function Chair 100 also includes Right Front Foldable Caster 146, Left Front Foldable Caster 148, Right Rear Foldable Caster 150, and Left Rear Foldable Caster 152 for configuring Multi-Function Chair 100 for the walker application when the foldable casters are folded down, and for configuring Multi-Function Chair 100 for the chair application or the rocker application when the foldable casters are folded up. Figure 8A illustrates a typical foldable caster arrangement wherein Left Front Foldable Caster 148 is shown folded in the down position for using Multi-Function Chair 100 as a walker. Figure 8B illustrates a typical foldable caster arrangement wherein Left Front Foldable Caster 148 is shown folded in the up position for using Multi-Function Chair 100 in the chair application or in the rocker application. Right Front Caster Lock 154, Left Front Caster Lock 156, Right Rear Caster Lock 158, and Left Rear Caster Lock 160 can be engaged to prevent the wheels of the foldable casters from turning, and can be disengaged to allow the wheels of the foldable casters to turn freely.

Referring to Figure 1, Right Exercise Module Sleeve 162 defines a cylinder-shaped bearing surface passing through Right Front Telescoping Leg 138, and Left Exercise Module Sleeve 164 defines a cylinder-shaped bearing surface passing through Left Front Telescoping Leg 140. Exercise Module Connector 166 functions to interconnect either Bicycle Pedal Module 440 or Foot Pump Module 460, described below, with Multi-Function Chair 100. Exercise Module Connector 166 includes Cylindrical Bar 168, Right End Cap 170, and Left End Cap 172. The two ends of Cylindrical Bar 168 are threaded for receiving Right End Cap 170 and Left End Cap 172 thereon. Cylindrical Bar 168 passes through Right Exercise Module Sleeve 162, through the rear stabilizer of either Bicycle Pedal Module 440 or Foot Pump Module 460 which has been positioned between Right Front Telescoping Leg 138 and Left Front Telescoping Leg 140, and through Left Exercise Module Sleeve 164. Right End Cap 170 and Left End Cap 172 are connected to Cylindrical Bar 168 to interconnect either Bicycle Pedal Module 440 or Foot Pump Module 460 with Multi-Function Chair 100. It is to be appreciated that other designs are contemplated for incorporating an exercise module connector. For example, an exercise module connector can use keys, pins, or other fastening means for securing the ends of the cylindrical bar with the right front telescoping leg and the left front telescoping leg. By way of further example, an exercise module connecter can be configured to allow one axis, two axis, or three axis positioning of the exercise module relative to the multi¬ function chair.

Referring to Figure 3, Multi-Function Chair 100 also includes Rocker Platform 174 for configuring Multi-Function Chair 100 for use in the rocker application when the foldable casters are folded up. Rocker Platform 174 has a curved bottom to configure Multi-Function Chair 100 for use in the rocker application. Rocker Platform 174 includes Right Front Leg Receiver 176 for receiving Right Front Telescoping Leg 126, Left Front Leg Receiver 178 (not shown) for receiving Left Front Telescoping Leg 128, Right Rear Leg

Receiver 180 for Receiving Right Rear Telescoping Leg 130, and Left Rear Leg Receiver 182 for Receiving Left Rear Telescoping Leg 132. Rocker Platform 174 also includes Right Front Rocker Stop 184, Left Front Rocker Stop 186 (not shown) , Right Rear Rocker Stop 188, and Left Rear Rocker Stop 190 that are pivoted into a down-locked position to prevent Multi-Function Chair 100 from rocking, and that are pivoted into an up-locked position to allow Multi-Function Chair 100 to rock freely. It is to be appreciated that either the two front rocker stops, the two rear rocker stops, or both the two front rocker stops and the two rear rocker stops can be pivoted into a down-locked position to prevent Multi-Function Chair 100 from rocking. The rocker stops also function to allow Multi-Function Chair 100 to be used in a chair application without necessitating removal of Rocker Platform 174.

Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 4, Multi-Function Chair 100 also includes Right Support 192 connected to the top section of Right Vertical Panel 102, and Left Support 194 connected to the top section of Left Vertical Panel 104. Right Support 192 includes Right Hand Grip 196, and Left Support 194 includes Left Hand Grip 198. Right Hand Grip 196 and Left Hand Grip 198 provide an ergonomically-friendly user interface to allow a person to support herself or himself when using Multi-Function Chair 100 in the walker application. Right Support 192 also includes Right Front Button Connector 200 (not shown) and Right Rear Button Connector 202 (not shown) for attaching items to Right Support 192. Left Support 194 also includes Left Front Button Connector 204 (not shown) and Left Rear Button Connector 206 (not shown) for attaching items to Left Support 194. As discussed below, Multi-Function Tray 250 is configurable with Multi-Function Chair 100 by sliding into Right Tray Channel 208 of Right Support 192 and into Left Tray Channel 210 (not shown) of Left Support 194, and Right Tray Lock 212 and Left Tray Lock 214 secure Multi-Function Tray 250 in place after being positioned at the desired position along Right Tray Channel 208 and Left Tray Channel 210. It is to be appreciated that Right Vertical Panel 102 and Right Support 192 can be made as a single-piece device forming a unitary structure, or as a multi-piece device interconnected using tongue-and-groove, friction fit, snap fit, or other connection means forming a unitary structure. It is to be also appreciated that Left Vertical Panel 104 and Left Support 194 can be made as a single-piece device forming a unitary structure, or as a multi-piece device interconnected using tongue-and-groove, friction fit, snap fit, or other connection means forming a unitary structure. Right Support 192 and Left Support 194 are preferred to be made of materials having a high strength-to-weight ratio as well as good wear resistance. Referring to Figure 9, Multi-Function Chair 100 also includes Headrest 216 for supporting a person's head. Headrest 216 includes Cushion 218 and Slide Coupler 220. Headrest 216 interconnects with Multi-Function Chair 100 by inserting Slide Coupler 220 into Back Panel Slot 222 located at the top of Back Vertical Panel 106. Headrest 216 is configured to be easily inserted into Back Panel Slot 222 and to be easily removed therefrom. Cushion 218 is preferred to be made of a soft inner core material surrounded by a removable outer cover material that is washable and breathable.

Referring to Figure 10, Multi-Function Tray 250 is configurable with Multi-Function Chair 100 and functions as a standard tray, as a platform for mounting activity modules, and as a platform for mounting exercise modules. Multi-Function Tray 250 includes Tray Platform 252, Tray Bumper 254, Right Flange Mount 256, Left Flange Mount 258, Right Lock Grooves 260, Left Lock Grooves 262, and Module Mounts 264. Right Flange Mount 256 and Left Flange Mount 258 slidably connect with Right Tray Channel 208 and Left Tray Channel 210, respectively, for coupling Multi-Function Tray 250 with Multi-Function Chair 100. Multi-Function Tray 250 is adjustably positionable in Multi-Function Chair 100 by engaging Right Tray Lock 212 and Left Tray Lock 214 with Right Lock Grooves 260 and Left Lock Grooves 262, respectively, at the desired position to secure Multi- Function Tray 250 in place. Multi-Function Tray 250 slides out of the front of Multi-Function Chair 100 to allow a person to easily ingress the seating area and to easily egress the seating area of Multi-Function Chair 100. It is preferred that Multi-Function Tray 250 be secured with Multi-Function Chair 100 during all applications of use. Module Mounts 264 on Tray Platform 252 are used to connect activity modules and exercise modules with Multi-Function Tray 250. Module Mounts 264 are arranged in a matrix to allow the caregiver to selectively connect activity modules and exercise modules at various positions on Tray Platform 252 to comfortably accommodate a range of person sizes. Tray Bumper 254 is preferred to have a smooth, curved surface that conformably aligns with Right Support 192 and Left Support 194 when Multi-Function Tray 250 is secured with Multi-Function Chair 100 in one of the adjustably positionable locked positions. It is to be appreciated that Multi-Function Tray 250 can be slidably positioned in Multi-Function Chair 100 such that Tray Bumper 254 can be forward of, in alignment with, or aft of the front of Right Support 192 and Left Support 194. Ad ustably positionable Multi-Function Tray 250 allows Multi-Function Chair 100 to accommodate a range of person sizes in the chair application, the walker application, and the rocker application. Multi-Function Tray 250 is preferred to be made of material having a high strength-to- weight ratio and good wear resistance. In the chair application, the platform seat is connected with the multi-function chair, each of the four foldable casters is folded to the up position, and each of the four telescoping legs is adjusted to the height appropriate for the person using the multi¬ function chair as a chair. The person using the multi-function chair is seated therein and secured to the platform seat using the seat belt. The multi-function tray is connected with the multi¬ function chair and is secured to the position appropriate for the person using the multi-function chair as a chair. The person using the multi-function chair in the chair application can safely participate in various entertaining and mentally stimulating activities, and can safely participate in various physical exercises.

In the walker application, the back mount of the sling seat is connected with the multi-function chair, each of the four foldable casters is folded in the down position, and each of the four telescoping legs is adjusted to the height appropriate for the person using the multi-function chair as a walker. The person using the multi-function chair stands toward the back of the multi¬ function chair, the seat loop of the sling seat is positioned between the person's legs, and the front mount is connected with the multi-function chair. The multi-function tray is connected with the multi-function chair and is secured to the position appropriate for the person using the multi-function chair as a walker. The caster locks can be locked to prevent the person from rolling the multi¬ function chair while entering or exiting the multi-function chair. The person using the multi-function chair in the walker application can safely walk on level surfaces when the caster locks are unlocked.

In the rocker application, the platform seat is connected with the multi-function chair, each of the four foldable casters is folded to the up position, each of the four telescoping legs is mounted to the rocker platform and adjusted to the height appropriate for the person using the multi-function chair as a rocker. The person using the multi-function chair is seated therein and secured to the platform seat using the seat belt. The multi- function tray is connected with the multi-function chair and is secured to the position appropriate for the person using the multi¬ function chair as a rocker. The rocker stops can be locked in the down position to prevent the person from rocking the multi-function chair. The person using the multi-function chair in the rocker application can safely participate in various entertaining and mentally stimulating activities, and can safely participate in various physical exercises.

In the activity mode, Multi-Purpose Activity and Exercise System 10 functions to stimulate a person's mind, to relieve the person of boredom, to enhance the person's mental functional skills, to improve the person's manual dexterity, and to improve the person's cognitive skills in a safe and comfortable environment. Activity Modules 300 are configured to interconnect with Multi- Function Tray 250 in an ergonomically-friendly position that can be easily accessed by a person seated in Multi-Function Chair 100 in either the chair application or the rocker application. Activity Modules 300 can include various stimulation and entertainment activities for demented individuals, including familiar activities (e.g. , typing, driving) , familiar textures, and puzzles that function to mentally stimulate and entertain demented individuals. Activity Modules 300 can also include mental stimulation activities for persons having normal or high cognitive abilities, as well as activities to entertain individuals of all mental abilities. Activity Modules 300 can be mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical devices. Activity Modules 300 can require a person using Multi-Purpose Activity and Exercise System 10 to use his hands and to exercise his fingers for improving physical flexibility and manual dexterity. It is to be appreciated that the embodiments of Activity Modules 300 described herein are representative of the diverse range of activity modules contemplated by this invention.

Referring to Figure 11, Tactile Stimulator Module 320 is an embodiment of Activity Modules 300 that functions as a mental stimulation type of activity module, and that can be connected to Multi-Function Activity Tray 250. Tactile Stimulator Module 320 includes Frame 322, Sample Board 324, Tactile Samples 326, Quick Release Connector 328, Quick Release Connector 330, Quick Release Connector 332, and Quick Release Connector 334. Tactile Stimulator Module 320 connects to Multi-Function Tray 250 using Quick Release Connector 328, Quick Release Connector 330, Quick Release Connector 332, and Quick Release Connector 334 to secure Frame 322 to Tray Platform 252. Tactile Samples 326 are mounted to Sample Board 324, and include materials that have a familiar feel or touch (e.g. , textile materials and fabric materials) to tactily stimulate a person using Multi-Purpose Activity and Exercise System 10. Referring to Figure 12, Shape Sorter Module 340 is an embodiment of Activity Modules 300 that functions as a mental stimulation type of activity module, and that can be connected to Multi-Function Tray 250. Shape Sorter Module 340 includes Frame 342, Sorter Board 344,- Sorter Samples 346, Quick Release Connector 348, and Quick Release Connector 350. Shape Sorter Module 340 connects to Multi-Function Tray 250 using Quick Release Connector 348 and Quick Release Connector 350 to secure Frame 342 to Tray Platform 252. Sorter Samples 346 include different shaped objects (e.g. , circles, squares, triangles) that can be inserted into corresponding holes in Sorter Board 344. As a person using the module successfully inserts a sorter sample in its corresponding hole in the sorter board, the module produces an audible sound or a visual flash to stimulate, reward, and entertain the person who successfully matches the sorter sample with the corresponding hole. Shape Sorter Module 340 also functions to require the person using the module to use his hands, wrists, and arms in a manner which improves that person's physical flexibility and manual dexterity. An alternative embodiment of Shape Sorter Module 340 can include various locks, such as chain locks and dead-bolt locks, and corresponding keys to open various locks. As a person using the module successfully opens and closes the various locks, the module produces a musical response to stimulate, reward, and entertain that person. Referring to Figure 13, Driving Simulator Module 360 is an embodiment of Activity Modules 300 that functions as a recognizable simulated daily living activity for entertaining a person and for stimulating that person's sight sensory function, aural sensory function, and touch sensory function, and that can be connected with Multi-Function Tray 250. Driving Simulator Module 360 includes Dashboard 362, Gauges 364, Steering Wheel 366, Gear Shift 368, Quick Release Connector 370, and Quick Release Connector 372. Driving Simulator Module 360 connects to Multi-Function Tray 250 using Quick Release Connector 370 and Quick Release Connector 372. Driving Simulator Module 360 allows a person to interact with a dashboard, gauges, steering wheel, and gear shift to simulate driving an automobile for entertaining and stimulating a person's sensory functions using Multi-Purpose Activity and Exercise System 10. An alternative embodiment of Driving Simulator Module 360 can include a calculator and keyboard that allows a person to simulate working in an office for entertaining that person and for stimulating that person's sensory functions.

Referring to Figure 14, Communications Board Module 380 is an embodiment of Activity Modules 300 that functions as a communication device to permit a person to easily communicate requests or instructions relating to various daily living activities, and that can be connected with Multi-Function Tray 250. Communication Board Module 380 includes Message Board 382, Picture Holders 384, Message Pictures 386, Quick Release Connector 388, and Quick Release Connector 390. Communications Board Module 380 connects to Multi-Function Tray 250 using Quick Release Connector 388 and Quick Release Connector 390. Message Pictures 386 include a series of pictures expressing recognizable daily living routines to enable a person having speech difficulties to communicate with a caregiver by physically pointing to a picture corresponding to the subject matter or idea that he wishes to communicate. In addition, Communication Board Module 380 enables a caregiver to communicate with a person having hearing dif iculties by physically pointing to a picture corresponding to the subject matter or idea the caregiver wishes to communicate. For example, when a person having speech difficulties is hungry he can point to a picture of a plate and eating utensils, or when that person is tired he can point to a picture of a bed. As illustrated in Figure 15, it is preferred that Message Pictures 386 include a series of pictures that is easily removable to allow the Communications Board Module 380 to be easily configurable with a series of pictures adapted for the person using the module. An alternative embodiment of Communications Board Module 380 can include an information handling system having a touch-sensitive display panel that incorporates a program to facilitate communication through hierarchical pull down menus to allow a person to communicate a very large number of ideas.

In the exercise mode, Multi-Purpose Activity and Exercise System 10 functions to stimulate muscles of elderly, frail, and nonambulatory persons through a variety and range of physical exercises in a safe and comfortable environment. For exercising a person' s upper body, Exercise Modules 400 can be connected with Multi-Function Tray 250 in an ergonomically-friendly position that is easily accessible by a person using Multi-Function Chair 100 in the chair application. For exercising a person's lower body, Exercise Modules 400 can be connected with Right Front Telescoping Leg 138 and Left Front Telescoping Leg 140 in an ergonomically- friendly position that is easily accessible by a person using Multi- Function Chair 100 in the chair application. Exercise Modules 400 have applications for maintaining or increasing muscle mass, improving the flexibility of muscles and joints, increasing strength, and increasing aerobic endurance that enable many elderly persons, including those having physical disabilities, to exercise. Exercise Modules 400 include various mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical physical exercise devices that can be adjusted in intensity to the limitations and abilities of the person doing the exercise. Exercise Modules 400 are appropriately graded for the elderly and can be adjusted to reduce or to increase the strength required to perform the exercise given the different physical abilities of different individuals, and are designed to improve the overall physical condition of a person using the module. It is to be appreciated that the embodiments of Exercise Modules 400 described herein are representative of the diverse range of exercise modules contemplated by this invention.

Referring to Figure 16, Hand Pulley Module 420 functions as an upper body resistance exerciser to strengthen a person's wrists, forearms, upper arms, and shoulders, and to improve the physical flexibility of that person's wrists, elbows, and shoulder joints. Hand Pulley Module 420 functions with Multi-Function Chair 100 in the chair application. Hand Pulley Module 420 includes Housing 422, Elastic Pulley 424, Handle 426, Bracket Mount 428, Quick Release Connector 430, and Quick Release Connector 432. Hand Pulley Module 420 can be rigidly mounted on Multi-Function Tray 250 using Quick Release Connector 430 and Quick Release Connector 432 to connect Bracket Mount 428 with two of Module Mounts 264 with the angular position of the module relative to the user being at an angle that is comfortable for exercising. Alternatively, Hand Pulley Module 420 can be pivotally mounted on Multi-Function Tray 250 using either Quick Release Connector 430 or Quick Release Connector 432 to connect Bracket Mount 428 with one of Module Mounts 264 with the angular position of the module relative to the user being at an angle that is comfortable for exercising. It is to be appreciated Hand Pulley Module 420 can be a series of individual hand pulley devices requiring different levels of strength to operate. It is to be further appreciated that the series of individual hand pulleys can be color-coded to identify the level of strength required to operate each individual hand pulley. It is to be still further appreciated that individual hand pulley devices can be variable resistance type hand pulley devices requiring variable levels of strength to operate during the repetition cycle. It is to be still further appreciated that an individual hand pulley device can be interchangeably configured with elastic bands requiring different levels of strength to operate. It is to be still further appreciated that the elastic bands can be color-coded to identify the level of strength required to operate each individual elastic band.

Referring to Figure 17, Bicycle Pedal Module 440 functions as a lower body resistance exerciser to strengthen and improve the flexibility of a person's ankles, knees, legs, and hips, to improve his cardiovascular performance, to enhance his mobility, and to enhance his ability to walk. Bicycle Pedal Module 440 functions with Multi-Function Chair 100 in the chair application. Bicycle Pedal Module 440 includes Front Stabilizer 442, Telescoping Frame 444, Extension Adjuster 446, Rear Stabilizer 448, Hub Assembly 450, Right Foot Pedal Assembly 452, Left Foot Pedal Assembly 454, Right Toe Clip 456, Left Toe Clip 458, Variable Resistance Adjuster 460, Odometer 462, Foot 464, Foot 466, Foot 468, and Foot 470. Rear Stabilizer 448 is positioned between Right Front Telescoping Leg 138 and Left Front Telescoping Leg 140. One end of Exercise Module Connector 166 is passed through Right Exercise Module Sleeve 162, through Rear Stabilizer 448, and through Left Exercise Module Sleeve 164. Right End Cap 170 and Left End Cap 172 are connected to the ends of Exercise Module Connector 166 to secure Bicycle Pedal Module 440 in place between Right Front Telescoping Leg 138 and Left Front Telescoping Leg 140. Right Toe Clip 456 and Left Toe Clip 458 assist a person to maintain his feet in a substantially fixed position relative to the pedals of Right Foot Pedal Assembly 452 and Left Foot Pedal Assembly 454 when exercising using Bicycle Pedal Module 440. The strength required to operate Bicycle Pedal Module 440 can by adjusted using Variable Resistance Adjuster 460 located on Hub Assembly 450. The distance pedalled is indicated by Odometer 462. Bicycle Pedal Module 440 can be safely and comfortably used by different size persons by adjusting each of Right Front Telescoping Leg 138, Left Front Telescoping Leg 140, Right Rear Telescoping Leg 142, and Left Rear Telescoping Leg 144 to the required height, and by adjusting Telescoping Frame 444 to the required extension. It is preferred that Foot 464, Foot 466, Foot 468, and Foot 470 each be made of slip-resistant rubber material to prevent Bicycle Pedal Module 460 from sliding on the floor or other surface on which the module is being used.

Referring to Figure 18, Foot Pump Module 480 functions as a lower body resistance exerciser to strengthen and improve the flexibility of a person's ankles, knees, legs, and hips, to improve his cardiovascular performance, to enhance his mobility, and to enhance his ability to walk. Foot Pump Module 480 functions with Multi-Function Chair 100 in the chair application. Foot Pump Module 480 includes Front Stabilizer 482, Telescoping Frame 484, Extension Adjuster 486, Rear Stabilizer 488, Hub Assembly 490, Right Foot Pump Assembly 492, Left Foot Pump Assembly 494, Right Toe Clip 496 (not shown) , Left Toe Clip 498 (not shown) , Variable Resistance Adjuster 500, Counter 502, Foot 504, Foot 506, Foot 508, and Foot 510. Rear Stabilizer 488 is positioned between Right Front Telescoping Leg 138 and Left Front Telescoping Leg 140. One end of Exercise Module Connector 166 is passed through Right Exercise Module Sleeve 162, through Rear Stabilizer 488, and through Left Exercise Module Sleeve 164. Right End Cap 170 and Left End Cap 172 are connected to the ends of Exercise Module Connector 166 to secure Foot Pump Module 480 in place between Right Front Telescoping Leg 138 and Left Front Telescoping Leg 140. Right Toe Clip 496 and Left Toe Clip 498 assist a person to maintain his feet in a substantially fixed position relative to the foot pegs of Right Foot Pump Assembly 492 and Left Foot Pump Assembly 494 when exercising using Foot Pump Module 480. The strength required to operate Foot Pump Module 480 can be adjusted using Variable Resistance Adjuster 500 located on Hub Assembly 490. The number of foot pump cycles is indicated by Counter 502. Foot Pump Module 480 can be safely and comfortably used by different size persons by adjusting each of Right Front Telescoping Leg 138, Left Front Telescoping Leg 140, Right Rear Telescoping Leg 142, and Left Rear Telescoping Leg 144 to the required height, and by adjusting Telescoping Frame 484 to the required extension. It is preferred that Foot 504, Foot 506, Foot 508, and Foot 510 each be made of slip-resistant rubber material to prevent Foot Pump Module 480 from sliding on the floor or other surface on which the module is being used.

Referring to Figure 19, Hand Wheel Module 520 functions as an upper body resistance exerciser to strengthen and improve the flexibility of a person's wrists, forearms, elbows, upper arms, and shoulders, and to improve his aerobic endurance. Hand Wheel Module 520 functions with Multi-Function Chair 100 in the chair application. Hand Wheel Module 520 includes Frame 522, Tray Mount 524, Hub Assembly 526, Right Hand Grip Assembly 528, Left Hand Grip Assembly 530 (not shown) , Quick Release Connector 532, Quick Release Connector 534, Variable Resistance Adjuster 536, and Odometer 538. Hand Wheel Module 520 is mounted on Multi-Function Tray 250 using Quick Release Connector 532 and Quick Release Connector 534 to connect Bracket Mount 524 with two of Module Mounts 264. The strength required to operate Hand Wheel Module 520 can by adjusted using Variable Resistance Adjuster 536 located on Hub Assembly 526. The distance pedalled is indicated by Odometer 538. Hand Wheel Module 520 can be safely and comfortably used by different persons by adjusting the position of Multi-Function Tray 250 to an extension appropriate for the person using Hand Wheel Module 520. It is to be appreciated that means can be added to Hand Wheel Module 520 for changing the height of the module.

Referring to Figure 20, Hand Squeeze Module 560 functions as an ergonomically-shaped hand exerciser to strengthen and improve flexibility of a person's hands, wrists, and forearms. Hand Squeeze Module 560 functions with Multi-Function Chair 100 in the chair application. Hand Squeeze Module 560 includes Frame 562, Finger Grip 564, Top Slide 566, Bottom Slide 568, Top Adjustable Piston 570, Bottom Adjustable Piston 572, Top Spring 574 (not shown), Bottom Spring 576 (not shown), Strap 578, Ring 580, and Quick Release Connector 582. Hand Squeeze Module 560 is mounted on Multi- Function Tray 250 using Quick Release Connector 582 to connect Ring 578 with any one of Module Mounts 264. Alternatively, Hand Squeeze Module 560 can be attached to Right Hand Grip 196 by first passing the free end of Strap 578 through Right Hand Grip 196 and then passing Hand Squeeze Module 560 through the loop of Strap 578, or it can be attached to Left Hand Grip 198 by first passing the free end of Strap 578 through Left Hand Grip 198 and then passing Hand Squeeze Module 560 through the loop of Strap 578. When mounted on Multi-Function Tray 250, Hand Squeeze Module 560 is configured to freely pivot around Ring 578 to allow a person using the module to easily adjust the position of the module for exercising. Frame 562 is ergonomically-shaped to conform with the palm of a person's hand, and Hand Grip 564 is ergonomically-shaped to conform with the fingers of a person's hand. In addition, Hand Squeeze Module 560 is configurable for use by persons having different size hands by positioning Finger Grip 564 in the adjustment slots of Top Adjustable Piston 570 and Bottom Adjustable Piston 572 appropriate - 22 - for comfortable use by the person using Hand Squeeze Module 560. To change the strength required to operate Hand Squeeze Module 560, Top Slide 566 and Bottom Slide 568 are each removable from Frame 562 to facilitate changing Top Spring 574 and Bottom Spring 576 with springs having a different spring rate. It is to be appreciated Hand Squeeze Module 560 can be a series of individual hand squeeze devices which does not include the interchangeable spring feature described above, but which does require differing strengths to operate. It is to be further appreciated that Hand Squeeze Module 560 can be a series of individual hand squeeze devices which does not include the adjustable finger grip feature described above, but which does accommodate different size hands. It is to be still further appreciated that the series of individual hand squeeze devices can be color-coded to identify the level of strength required to operate each individual hand squeeze device. It is to be still further appreciated that the springs used as Top Spring 574 and Bottom Spring 576 can be color-coded to identify the level of strength required to operate Hand Squeeze Module 560.

While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. For example, the headrest can be made to be adjustable for adjusting the vertical position of the headrest for persons having different sizes, and additional connector devices can be integrated into the multi-function chair for interfacing with other patient care delivery systems. Still further, many of the activity modules also function to provide physical exercise in addition to mental stimulation. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the inventors' general inventive concept.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A multi-purpose activity and exercise system, comprising a multi-function chair selectively configurable in a first mode as a chair, in a second mode as a walker, and in a third mode as a rocker, and a multi-function tray configured for removable connection with said multi-function chair.

2. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 1, wherein both the height of said multi-function chair and the position of said multi-function tray are adjustable for use by different size persons.

3. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 1, further comprising an activity module connected with said multi-function tray.

4. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 1, further comprising an exercise module connected with said multi-function tray.

5. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 1, further comprising an exercise module connected with said multi-function chair.

6. A multi-purpose activity and exercise system, comprising: (a) a multi-function chair, including: (1) a right vertical panel defining a forward half section and a rearward half section, and including a first leg extending down from the forward half section and a second leg extending down from the rearward half section; (2) a left vertical panel defining a forward half section and a rearward half section, and including a third leg extending down from the forward half section and a fourth leg extending down from the rearward half section; (3) a first foldable caster connected with said first leg, a second foldable caster connected with said second leg, a third foldable caster connected with said third leg, and a fourth foldable caster connected with said fourth leg, each said foldable caster being positionable below a plane defined by the bottoms of said legs, and each said foldable caster being positionable above the plane defined by the bottoms of said legs; (4) a back vertical panel having a right side, a left side, a top side, a bottom side, a front side, and a back side, the right side being connected with the rearward half section of said right vertical panel and the left side being connected with the rearward half section of said left vertical panel; (5) a seat having a seating section, said seat being configured for removable connection with the rearward half section of said right vertical panel and for removable connection with the rearward half section of said left vertical panel, said seat being connected to allow a person positioned in the seating section to face in a direction opposite said back vertical panel; and (6) a rocker platform configured for removable connection with said first leg, removable connection with said second leg, removable connection with said third leg, and removable connection with said fourth leg; and (b) a multi-function tray configured for removable connection with said multi-function chair, said multi- function tray having a right side, a left side, a top side, a bottom side, a front side, and a back side, the right side being connected with the forward half section of said right vertical panel and the left side being connected with the forward half section of said left vertical panel, the bottom side of said multi-function tray being higher than the seating section of said seat.

7. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 6, further comprising a headrest connected with the top side of said back vertical panel.

8. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of pivot stops connected with said rocker platform, said plurality of pivots stops being positionable with a plane defined by the floor and being positionable above the plane defined by the floor.

- 25 - 9. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 6, further comprising a first leg adjuster for changing the height of said first leg, a second leg adjuster for changing the height of said second leg, a third leg adjuster for changing the height of said third leg, and a fourth leg adjuster for changing the height of said fourth leg.

10. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 9, further comprising a right tray lock for adjusting the horizontal position of said multi-function tray along the forward half section of said right vertical panel, and a left tray lock for adjusting the horizontal position of said multi- function tray along the forward half section of said left vertical panel.

11. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 10, wherein said seat is a sling seat.

12. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 11, further comprising a first caster lock for preventing said first foldable caster from rolling, a second caster lock for preventing said second foldable caster from rolling, a third caster lock for preventing said third foldable caster from rolling, and a fourth caster lock for preventing said fourth foldable caster from rolling.

13. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 10, wherein said seat is a platform seat.

14. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 13, further comprising an activity module connected with said multi-function tray.

15. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 14, wherein said activity module is a tactile stimulator device having a plurality of touch pads, each of said plurality of touch pads having a different texture for stimulating the person's sense of touch and for entertaining the person.

16. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 14, wherein said activity module is a shape sorter device having a plurality of different shaped objects and a plurality of different shaped apertures corresponding to said plurality of different shaped objects for entertaining the person.

17. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 14, wherein said activity module is a driving simulator device having a simulated dashboard, gauges, steering wheel, and gear shift for stimulating the person's sight sensory function, aural sensory function, and touch sensory function, and for entertaining the person.

18. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 14, wherein said activity module is a communications board device having a series of removable pictures corresponding to daily living activities to enable a person having speech difficulties to communicate to another person by pointing to one or more pictures in said series of pictures.

19. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 13, further comprising an exercise module connected with said multi-function tray.

20. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 19, wherein said exercise module is a hand pulley device for use in an exercise program to strengthen the person's hands, wrists, forearms, upper arms, and shoulders, and to improve the flexibility of the person's wrists, elbows, and shoulder joints.

21. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 20, wherein said hand pulley device is adjustable for changing the strength required to operate said hand pulley device.

22. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 19, wherein said exercise module is a hand wheel device for use in an exercise program to strengthen the person's hands, wrists, forearms, upper arms, and shoulders, and to improve the flexibility of the person's wrists, elbows, and shoulder joints.

23. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 22, wherein said hand wheel device is adjustable for changing the strength required to operate said hand wheel device.

24. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 19, wherein said exercise module is a hand squeeze device for use in an exercise program to strengthen the person's hands, wrists, and forearms, and to improve the flexibility of the person's wrists.

25. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 24, wherein said hand squeeze device is adjustable for changing the strength required to operate said hand squeeze device.

26. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 13, further comprising an exercise module connected with said first leg and with said third leg.

27. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 26, wherein said exercise module is a bicycle pedal device for use in an exercise program to strengthen the person's ankles, legs, and hips, and to improve the flexibility of the person's ankles, knees, and hip joints.

28. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 27, wherein said bicycle pedal device is adjustable for changing the strength required to operate said bicycle pedal device.

29. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 27, further comprising an extension adjuster for adjusting a right foot pedal and a left foot pedal to different positions for use by different size persons.

30. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 26, wherein said exercise module is a foot pump device for use in an exercise program to strengthen the person's ankles, legs, and hips, and to improve the flexibility of the person's ankles, knees, and hip joints.

31. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 30, wherein said foot pump device is adjustable for changing the strength required to operate said foot pump device.

32. The multi-purpose activity and exercise system of claim 30, further comprising an extension adjuster for adjusting a right foot pump and a left foot pump to different positions for use by different size persons.