Feasibility of integrative games and novel therapeutic game controller for telerehabilitation of individuals chronic post-stroke living in the community

Abstract

Background: Intensive, adaptable and engaging telerehabilitation is needed to enhance recovery and maximize outcomes. Such services may be provided under early supported discharge, or later for chronic populations. A novel virtual reality game-based telerehabilitation system was designed for individuals post-stroke to enhance their bimanual upper extremity motor function, cognition, and wellbeing. Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of novel therapeutic game controller and telerehabilitation system for home use. Methods: Individuals chronic post-stroke and their caregivers were recruited (n = 8 + 8) for this feasibility study. One was a screen failure and seven completed 4 weeks (20 sessions) of home-based therapy with or without remote monitoring. Standardized clinical outcome measures were taken pre- and post-therapy. Game performance outcomes were sampled at every session, while participant and caregiver subjective evaluations were done weekly. Results: There was a 96% rate of compliance to protocol, resulting in an average of 13,000 total arm repetitions/week/participant. Group analysis showed significant (p