Perceptions of stroke survivors regarding factors affecting adoption of technology and exergames for rehabilitation

Abstract

BackgroundTask‐specific motor training and repetitive practice are essential components of clinical rehabilitation. Emerging evidence suggests that incorporating gaming interfaces (also referred to as “exergames”), including virtual reality and augmented reality (VR/AR)‐based interfaces for motor training, can enhance the engagement and efficacy of poststroke rehabilitation.ObjectiveTo investigate perceptions of individuals with stroke regarding technology and exergames for rehabilitation.DesignThis qualitative phenomenological study included a convenience sample of 11 individuals with stroke (61.7 ± 12.4 years, 6 women and 5 men, 63.5 ± 41.2 months post stroke).SettingCommunity.InterventionsN/A.Outcome MeasuresSemistructured open‐ended focus‐group interviews to understand their perceptions on technology and exergames to improve recovery were coded using thematic content analysis.ResultsIndividuals with stroke were comfortable using smartphones, computers, and rehabilitation technologies but had limited experiences using exergames and VR/AR devices. Individuals with stroke were motivated to use technologies and exergames to improve their functional recovery. Participants identified facilitators (eg, enhancing functional recovery, feedback, therapist supervision) and barriers (eg, safety, inaccessibility, inadequate knowledge) to adopting exergames in their daily lives. Participants wanted the exergames to be customizable, goal oriented, and enjoyable to maintain their engagement. They were willing to use exergames to improve their functional recovery but indicated that these games could not replace the therapist's supervision.ConclusionsDespite having limited experiences with exergames, people post stroke perceived that exergames could promote functional recovery. The perspectives gained from the present study can inform user‐centered game design for neurorehabilitation.

Design of Virtual Reality Exergames for Upper Limb Stroke Rehabilitation Following Iterative Design Methods: Usability Study

“…Furthermore, the playtesting methodology allowed us to strengthen relationships with all stakeholders, from developers to clinicians. This aligns with the findings of previous studies that have emphasized how involving multiple stakeholders in the design process leads to a more suitable and user-centered prototype [63]. The importance of maintaining close relationships with stakeholders has also been underscored, and this study reaffirms the relevance of this challenge in the successful implementation of playtesting.…”

“…Nevertheless, although VR has never been more accessible before, the reality is that the cost-effectiveness of its use in telehealth programs in both rural and urban areas in Latin America is still very limited [70]. In summary, our study contributes to emerging efforts in which interdisciplinary collaboration and the use of innovative technology during times of crisis, such as the pandemic, continue to draw a research pathway in this continually evolving field [63,71,72].…”

Design of Virtual Reality Exergames for Upper Limb Stroke Rehabilitation Following Iterative Design Methods: Usability Study (Preprint)

“…Nevertheless, although VR has never been more accessible before, the reality is that the cost-effectiveness of its use in telehealth programs in both rural and urban areas in Latin America is still very limited [70]. In summary, our study contributes to emerging efforts in which interdisciplinary collaboration and the use of innovative technology during times of crisis, such as the pandemic, continue to draw a research pathway in this continually evolving field [63,71,72].…”

Design recommendations for XR-based motor rehabilitation exergames at home

“…The rehabilitation process for individuals with ABI is highly individual due to the varying nature of the resulting functional deficits and varying personal preferences. The rehabilitation process must be adapted correctly to ensure better safety, motivation, and functional outcomes (Krishnan et al, 2023). As the XR technologies allow for the simulation of a wide variety of real-life environments, the modification of sensory presentations and feedback, and the adaption of task complexity, they can seemingly fulfill those requirements (Pietrzak et al, 2014).…”