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Virtual Reality Gaming in Occupational Rehabilitation - User Experiences and Perceptions
Anita Dyb Linge1,2, Irene Øyeflaten3, Thomas Johansen4,5
1Muritunet Rehabilitation Centre, Valldal, Norway.
Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare
|November 19, 2024
Summary
Virtual Reality (VR) offers a novel approach to occupational rehabilitation, enhancing engagement and providing symptom relief for individuals on long-term sick leave. This immersive technology shows potential for improving work ability and facilitating return to work.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Occupational Therapy
Background:
- Occupational rehabilitation programs in Norway aim to improve work ability for individuals facing workforce participation challenges.
- Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly used in healthcare but not yet systematically in occupational rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore participant experiences with game-based, immersive VR as part of occupational rehabilitation.
- To understand the impact of VR on individuals undergoing rehabilitation for long-term sick leave.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews with 15 participants (12 women, 3 men) on long-term sick leave.
- Interviews conducted before and after inpatient stay at three rehabilitation centres.
- Qualitative data analysis using Systematic Text Condensation.
Main Results:
- Participants reported positive influences from the VR headset and game, including increased focus and enjoyment.
- The VR gaming activity provided a sense of free space, symptom relief, and self-challenge.
- Participants experienced distraction from external stimuli and a "here-and-now" feeling.
Conclusions:
- Gamified VR presents a unique and powerful modality in occupational rehabilitation, distinct from traditional methods.
- VR training may enhance focus and provide symptom relief, potentially aiding return to work.
- Further research is needed on VR synergies within broader occupational rehabilitation and its impact on return-to-work outcomes.
