Interactive Augmented Reality As A Support Tool For Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation Programs

Abstract

In this thesis, an augmented reality system is proposed as an alternative to create multiple interactive virtual environments that might later be used in Parkinson’s Disease rehabilitation programs. The main objective of this thesis is to develop a Wearable Tangible Augmented Reality Environment focused on providing the sense of presence required to effectively immerse patients so that they are able to perform different tasks in context–specific scenarios. By using our system, patients are able to freely navigate different virtual environments. Moreover, by segmenting and then overlaying users’ hands and objects of interest above the 3D environment, patients have the ability to naturally interact with both real–life items as well as with virtually augmented objects using nothing but their bare hands. As part of this thesis, Parkinson’s Disease patients participated in a three–week dual– task assessment program in which several tasks were performed following a strict protocol. In order to assess patients’ performance, the tasks were carried out both in the real world and using the system. The findings of this thesis will help evaluate the viability of using augmented reality as an auxiliary tool for Parkinson’s Disease rehabilitation programs