DigitalAbilityRehabilitationInitiativeDARI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. By providing free online training tools and materials, we help brain injury survivors enhance their proficiency in using digital devices to regain independence at work or school.
Digital ability refers to the skills and knowledge required to effectively use digital devices and technologies. In today’s world, these skills are essential for communication, work, and daily life. For brain injury survivors, regaining digital ability can significantly enhance their independence and quality of life.
Rebuild rhythm
Typing helps retrain fine motor control, hand-eye coordination, and sequencing. Reclaim self-expression, clearer communication, and autonomy.
Rebuild motor targeting
Pointing with a cursor reinforces spatial awareness and intentionality. Train the ability to aim, adjust, and stabilize.
Rebuild intention and agency
Clicking is an act of decision-making. By opening a file or confirming a step, practice “I choose, therefore I move forward.”
Rebuild contextual awareness
Highlighting and selecting exercises focus on digital and cognitive clarity and precision.
Rebuild motor fluidity
Dragging builds perception, pressure control, and sequencing. Practice the action of hold-guide-release with purpose.
Rebuild orientation and pacing
Pace, scan, and stay oriented in a dynamic environment. Revive the sense of flow and continuity crucial to navigating screens and everyday life.
Rebuild precise movement
Tracing by dragging reinforces the ability to link visual guidance and motor execution.
About Us
Our initiative focuses on providing tailored training programs that address the unique challenges faced by brain injury survivors. We use a combination of interactive exercises and real-life scenarios to help survivors rebuild their digital skills. By offering these resources for free, we aim to make digital rehabilitation accessible to everyone in need.
Our Team
Co-founder
A computer software engineer and stroke survivor himself, Yutao started this project after experiencing firsthand the challenges faced by brain injury survivors in regaining fluency in using digital devices. He first started building a small web app for himself to relearn using a mouse and keyboard for programming. Then it became a hobby project, then a Hackathon project, and then, eventually, DARI. Outside of work, Yutao also enjoys watching movies and listening to Stephen King audiobooks.
Co-founder
Ruohan is a high school student with a passion for literature, music, and community service. She co-founded DARI with her dad, Yutao, and is currently in charge of social media and communications. During the development of DARI’s practice platform, she contributed typing exercises, some of which are her own works of fiction. In her free time, she loves to do sabre fencing, go down rabbit holes of research, and take strolls at sunset while listening to her favorite songs.
In January 2024, I had an ischemic stroke. Some of my left-brain cells got damaged and it partially impaired the right side of my body. I went through a ton of therapies: Physical therapy got me on my feet again. Speech therapy helped me restore communication skills and even swallowing abilities. I also did…
What is a stroke? A stroke, also referred to as a “brain attack,” happens when the brain’s blood supply is suddenly disrupted. This happens either by a clot (ischemic stroke) or by a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Without blood and oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Stroke is a major cause…