A reliable low-cost platform for neglect virtual rehabilitation

Abstract

Neglect syndrome is characterized by a selective impairment of spatial exploration sensible to cognitive rehabilitation. We show here how an effective rehabilitation system for neglect can be obtained using a web-cam, a PC and a TV display or a video projector. The patient is guided to explore the space, included the neglected hemispace, by a specifically designed game that requires the patient to reach targets with an increasing level of difficulty. Rewards display and audio output feed-back make the game even more attractive. We also report significant improvement on spatial exploration and everyday activities in one patient with chronic neglect, after a single intensive treatment with the described system. Besides improving the patients reported a positive attitude towards the system throughout the entire rehabilitation period.