Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, often resulting in motor impairments that require extensive rehabilitation to regain functional independence. Traditional rehabilitation approaches have limitations in engaging and motivating patients, leading to suboptimal outcomes. Virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a promising tool in medical rehabilitation, offering interactive and immersive environments to enhance therapy outcomes. This thesis presents the development of a VR-based rehabilitation program tailored for stroke patients, aiming to improve motor function, enhance engagement, and optimize recovery. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, highlighting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The literature review in Chapter 2 explores existing research on VR-based rehabilitation interventions, motor recovery mechanisms, stroke rehabilitation challenges, technology acceptance, and patient outcomes. Chapter 3 details the research methodology, including the study design, participant recruitment criteria, intervention protocol, outcome measures, data collection procedures, data analysis methods, ethical considerations, and limitations. The research design incorporates a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of the VR-based rehabilitation program among stroke patients. Chapter 4 presents a comprehensive discussion of the findings, analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to assess the impact of the VR-based rehabilitation program on motor function, engagement levels, user experience, and therapeutic outcomes. The results highlight the potential benefits of incorporating VR technology in stroke rehabilitation and offer insights into optimizing program design and implementation. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by summarizing key findings, discussing implications for clinical practice and future research directions, and highlighting the significance of integrating VR technology into rehabilitation programs for stroke patients. The study contributes to advancing the field of medical rehabilitation by demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of a VR-based approach in enhancing motor recovery and patient engagement following stroke. Overall, this thesis underscores the importance of innovative technology solutions in improving rehabilitation outcomes for stroke survivors and provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers seeking to enhance the quality of care and support for individuals with stroke-related disabilities.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of a Virtual Reality-based Rehabilitation Program for Stroke Patients" aims to address the critical need for innovative and effective rehabilitation programs for individuals recovering from strokes. Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability globally, impacting various aspects of physical and cognitive functions. Traditional rehabilitation methods often have limitations in engaging patients and providing personalized, interactive interventions to promote recovery. Virtual reality (VR) technology presents a promising avenue for enhancing stroke rehabilitation by creating immersive and interactive environments that can simulate real-world activities and challenges. By leveraging VR technology, this project intends to develop a tailored rehabilitation program that can cater to the diverse needs of stroke patients, ultimately improving their functional outcomes and quality of life. The research will focus on designing and implementing a VR-based rehabilitation program that incorporates evidence-based practices, personalized goal-setting, and real-time feedback mechanisms to optimize patient engagement and motivation. Through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates principles of rehabilitation science, human-computer interaction, and neurorehabilitation, the project aims to create a comprehensive and adaptable VR platform for stroke rehabilitation. Key components of the VR-based program will include interactive exercises targeting motor skills, cognitive functions, and activities of daily living, as well as monitoring tools to track patient progress and adjust interventions accordingly. The program will also incorporate gamification elements, social interaction features, and virtual coaching to enhance patient motivation and adherence to the rehabilitation regimen. By conducting rigorous evaluations and user testing, the project seeks to assess the feasibility, usability, and effectiveness of the VR-based rehabilitation program in improving functional outcomes, enhancing patient engagement, and promoting long-term recovery for stroke survivors. The research overview underscores the significance of this project in advancing the field of medical rehabilitation and highlights the potential impact of VR technology in revolutionizing stroke rehabilitation practices.