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For people living with neurological conditions, rehabilitation requires focus, energy, and concentration. But something as simple as background noise can make that harder.
At Synaptic Neuro Rehabilitation Centre, we know that comfort, communication, and privacy can have a significant impact on a person's rehabilitation experience.
We're excited to announce that Synaptic has been awarded an RBC Barrier Buster Grant of more than $38,000 through the Rick Hansen Foundation, in collaboration with RBC and RBC Foundation.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Rick Hansen's Man In Motion World Tour. To honour this milestone, the Rick Hansen Foundation, in collaboration with RBC and RBC Foundation, launched the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program, a national initiative supporting projects that remove barriers and improve accessibility in communities across Canada.
The funding will support Synaptic's Science of Quiet Project: Sound Dampening Solutions for Sensory Regulation, an initiative designed to improve sensory accessibility throughout our clinic.
When people think about accessibility, they may think about ramps, elevators, and automatic doors. Accessibility also includes how people experience a space. Factors such as noise, lighting, wayfinding, and sensory stimulation can all affect a person's ability to participate fully.
For individuals living with brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, and other neurological conditions, excessive noise can contribute to cognitive fatigue, sensory overload, and communication challenges. Creating environments that reduce these barriers can make rehabilitation more comfortable, effective, and inclusive.
In 2025 alone, Synaptic provided 9,954 therapy hours to 291 individuals. Each person who comes through our doors brings unique goals, strengths, and accessibility needs. The Science of Quiet Project reflects our commitment to continuously improving accessibility and the rehabilitation experience for the people we serve.
The project will introduce several soundproofing improvements throughout the clinic, including acoustic insulation, sound transmission sealing, and acoustic panels designed to reduce noise and improve speech clarity.
Work on the Science of Quiet Project is expected to begin in September 2026.
Following completion of the project, Synaptic will host a community event to celebrate the improvements and raise awareness about sensory accessibility. Clients, families, community partners, accessibility advocates, and supporters will be invited to learn more about how thoughtful design can help create more inclusive spaces for people with disabilities.
We are grateful to the Rick Hansen Foundation, RBC, and RBC Foundation for investing in this project. Through the Science of Quiet Project, Synaptic is continuing its commitment to accessible, client-centered rehabilitation for people living with neurological conditions.
Learn more about the 2026 RBC Barrier Buster Grant Recipients