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Purpose:There has been an increase in research on the effect that virtual reality (VR) can have on physical rehabilitation following stroke. However, research exploring participant perceptions of VR for post-stroke rehabilitation has been limited. Method:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 chronic stroke participants (10 males, mean age = 72.1, mean time since injury = 38.6 mos.) who had recently completed an upper extremity VR stroke rehabilitation programme. Results:Four main themes emerged: ‘the VR experience,’ ‘functional outcomes,’ ‘instruction,’ and the ‘future of VR in stroke rehabilitation,’ along with nine sub-themes. Participants illustrated the positive impact that VR training had on their functional abilities as well as their confidence towards completing activities of daily living (ADL). Participants also expressed the need for increased rehabilitation opportunities within the community. Conclusion:Overall, participants were optimistic about their experience with VR training and all reported that they had perceived functional gain. VR is an enjoyable rehabilitation tool that can increase a stroke survivor’s confidence towards completing ADL.Implications for RehabilitationAlthough there is an increase in rehabilitation programmes geared towards those with chronic stroke, we must also consider the participants’ perception of those programmes.Incorporating participant feedback may increase enjoyment and adherence to the rehabilitation programmes.The VR experience, as well as provision of feedback and instruction, are important aspects to consider when developing a VR programme for stroke survivors.VR for rehabilitation may be a feasible tool for increasing the survivors’ confidence in completing ADL post-stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of commercial gaming as an intervention for fine motor recovery in chronic stroke.Methods: Ten chronic phase post-stroke participants (mean time since CVA = 39 mos; mean age = 72 yrs) completed a 16-session program using the Nintendo Wii for 15 min two times per week with their more affected hand (10 right handed). Functional recovery (Jebsen Hand Function Test (JHFT), Box and Block Test (BBT), Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT)), and quality of life (QOL; Stroke Impact Scale (SIS)) were measured at baseline (pre-testing), after 8 sessions (mid-testing) and after 16 sessions (post-testing).Results: Significant improvements were found with the JHFT, BBT and NHPT from pre-testing to post-testing (p = 0.03,p = 0.03,p = 0.01,respectively). As well, there was an increase in perceived QOL from pre-testing to post-testing, as determined by the SIS (p = 0.009).Conclusion: Commercial gaming may be a viable resource for those with chronic stroke. Future research should examine the feasibility of this as a rehabilitation tool for this population.Implications for RehabilitationStroke survivors often live with lasting effects from their injury, however, those with chronic stroke generally receive little to no rehabilitation due to a perceived motor recovery plateau.Virtual reality in the form of commercial gaming is a novel and motivating way for clients to complete rehabilitation.The Nintendo Wii may be a feasible device to improve both functional ability and perceived quality of life in chronic stroke survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]