Background

Every year 12,000 Danes are hit by a stroke. 70% survive but many are affected by long-lasting injuries, which means that they must relearn quite simple everyday tasks such as drinking from a cup. It is, of course, a frustrating process but virtual reality can help.

VR-Rehab has, in collaboration with Grindsted Hospital (situated in the southwestern part of Jutland) developed the Virtual Reality Training System, which is a virtual reality gamification system for the rehabilitation of acquired brain injuries. The system has been tested and developed in close collaboration with skilled therapists.

The training environment is adapted to each person's cognitive and physical abilities. The initial results show that a large group of patients can be rehabilitated and that the individual adaptation options increase people's motivation to participate in the rehabilitation course.

The virtual environment currently consists of a kitchen where users perform daily tasks in accordance with their rehabilitation programme (General Daily Living, ADL). The system allows patients to manipulate the virtual world and its objects using delicate motor sensors (Leap Motion) in a new and safe way. Patients may for example train to cut bread in the virtual world focusing on the handling of the knife before they train in the real world. This ensures that the patient cognitively understands how to hold and use a knife and that he has the physical strength to do so - thus preventing any harm that he may cause to himself or others.

Purpose and vision

The purpose of the project is to further develop the Virtual Reality Training System transforming it into a sales-ready product. In addition, the intention is to map out the possibilities and value of the solution for the training unit.

The vision is to create a modular, easily adaptable and customized virtual training programme that promotes satisfaction and motivation for staff as well as patients.

The Project

The activities are carried out in close cooperation with the Municipality of Esbjerg and the neurorehabilitation section of Grindsted Hospital and consist of A/B tests with users and data collection through questionnaires, interviews and quantitative measurements. The results will be compared with requirements put forward by users who wish a carefully considered and planned solution.