Automatic adaptation of serious games applied to virtual motor rehabilitation

Abstract

The virtual rehabilitation process has involved the use of technology to create seriousgames (or exergames) aimed at further involving and engaging the patient in therapy to increaseadhesion and compliance. Virtual Reality (VR) has been used to assist in the motor, cognitive, oremotional recovery of patients, providing opportunities to increase adherence to rehabilitationtreatments by inserting game elements into the therapeutic context to keep the patient motivatedthroughout physical activity. Studies involving virtual rehabilitation with the use of seriousgames have obtained promising results, but there is still room for improvement, especiallywith regard to automated adaptation considering the limitations and needs of each patient,because, in general, the tools present one-size-fits-all solutions for all patients. This projectproposes the evaluation of the exergame developed as part of the initial project and seeks toassess the benefits that the use of physiological metrics can bring to the process of automatedadaptation of serious games applied to virtual motor rehabilitation. As specific methodologicalphases are foreseen: study of the physiological metrics collection and analysis modules designedabroad in the GAMER Laboratory at Ontario Tech University, integration of these moduleswith the developed exergame, evaluation of the impact propitiated by physiological metricson the patient's performance and engagement, and finally, the elaboration of scientific articlesand reports. It is expected that the project contributes to the development and improvement ofinteractive games for the rehabilitation of people with motor disabilities and develops techniquesthat can be employed by various types of games.