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How does virtual rehabilitation work? |
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The basic principle of virtual rehabilitation is very simple: it engages people to train more regularly. Scientific research shows that "more is better" for many people in rehabilitation training, for instance, after a stroke or when relearning functional activities. Exercising regularly can however be boring and physically exhausting. This often limits therapy compliance. Especilly with older patients, the therapist has to spend a lot of time motivating the patient. Unfortunately, many therapists do not get enough time to do this well for every patient.
Computer games engage the patient. Each movement is immediately followed by feedback, as something happens in the game to reflect his performance. This motivates the patient to keep going. Moreover, each game has a very clear outcome in the form of scores. These allow patients to set themselves long term goals and monitor progress towards these goals. This is even more motivating.
The picture below illustrates these mechanisms further. Click on the picture to enlarge it.
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