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An Interactive Vision-Based 3D Augmented Reality System for In-Home Physical Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Inquiry to
Afolasade Fakolade1,2, Adriana C Salvia1, Siona Phadke1
1School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Older adults undergoing total joint replacement (TJR) need better ways to complete physical rehabilitation at home. This study explored their views on using an interactive 3D augmented reality system (3D ARS) to improve recovery outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Science
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Postoperative physical rehabilitation is critical for older adults after total joint replacement (TJR).
- Many older adults struggle to complete prescribed exercises at home, negatively impacting recovery.
- There is a need for innovative tools to support in-home rehabilitation for this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore perspectives of key stakeholders on designing an interactive, vision-based, 3D augmented reality system (3D ARS).
- To support in-home postoperative physical rehabilitation for older adults who have undergone TJR.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative descriptive study was conducted.
- Data were collected through 11 semi-structured interviews and six focus groups.
- Participants included 42 older adults with TJR and four family caregivers; thematic analysis was used.
Main Results:
- Two primary themes emerged: 'dreaming up possibilities' and 'being pragmatic'.
- 'Dreaming up possibilities' highlighted perceived benefits and desired features for a 3D ARS in rehabilitation.
- 'Being pragmatic' focused on practical considerations affecting the system's accessibility and use.
Conclusions:
- Findings offer foundational insights for designing and evaluating novel augmented reality tools for TJR rehabilitation.
- These insights are crucial for researchers, clinicians, and developers aiming to improve in-home physical rehabilitation outcomes.
- The study emphasizes the importance of user-centered design in developing effective rehabilitation technologies for older adults.

