Designing a Game-based Solution for In-home Rehabilitation

This paper presents initial concepts and formative evaluation results from a research (REHAB@HOME) investigating the patient-centred design of game environments aimed at raising patients’ motivation and compliance with motor-cognitive rehabilitation programs. During the initial phase of the project five games were deployed through main gaming platforms and interaction devices (Kinect, LeapMotion, Sifteo Cubes). A pilot study involving six patients from two different rehabilitation centres (one in Italy and one in Austria) was conducted to assess usability and motivational factors implied in the initial usage of the solutions proposed. From the pilot study results we derive indications to inform the future design of game solutions for raising patients’ compliance with upper body rehabilitation programs.