Rehab Games as Components of Workflow: A Case Study.

OBJECTIVE

This study explored and evaluated the integration of rehabilitation games into therapy workflow.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multistage and multimethod study was followed: (1) A formative study involving observations and interviews with a total of approximately 90 therapists across the rehabilitation continuum was conducted for the design and development of an interactive therapy platform using Microsoft(®) (Redmond, WA) Kinect(®) for Windows. (2) A pilot study was carried out in an inpatient facility, involving patients and therapists. (3) Heuristic evaluation was performed on the basis of the principles of universal design.

RESULTS

The findings from the study show the overall appeal of the system to patients and therapists, but also the challenges of integrating the system into the workflow.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from the study are in line with other similar studies in terms of the appeal and potential impact of games for rehabilitation and the applicability of the principles of universal design, as well as the need for institutional and public policy changes in the field of medical rehabilitation.