Evaluating user experiences in rehabilitation games

Abstract

Purpose

Computer‐based systems for motor function rehabilitation have been around for more than a decade, with work done to help recovery of function in the lower limb (ankle, leg) as well as upper limb (hand and arm).

Design/methodology/approach

More recently there has been a trend towards the use of game‐based systems to deliver rehabilitation goals. The authors' interdisciplinary group has been working in the area of motor function recovery of the hand and arm (following stroke) for a number of years, using both high‐end virtual reality (VR) technology as well as low‐cost video capture technology.

Findings

Over this time it has become clear that there are many challenges in designing usable, effective game‐based systems for motor function rehabilitation.

Originality/value

This paper reflects on user experiences across the range of technologies developed by the group. It presents a summary review of the authors' systems and details the protocols and user evaluation instruments used. It then critically reflects on this work and reviews other recent advances in game usability and playability, leading to suggestions for how the user experience of games for rehabilitation may be improved in future work.

Citation

McNeill, M.D.J., Charles, D.K., Burke, J.W., Crosbie, J.H. and McDonough, S.M. (2012), "Evaluating user experiences in rehabilitation games", Journal of Assistive Technologies, Vol. 6 No. 3, pp. 173-181. https://doi.org/10.1108/17549451211261290