Just Like Riding a Bike:Exploring the Motivating Capabilities, Contextual Barriers and Facilitators of Virtual Reality and Cycle Ergometers for the Rehabilitation of Older Adults in Clinical Practice

Abstract

“To be allowed to try VR has completely saved my stay!” (Inpatient, 65)Motivation is crucial for older adults' adherence to physical therapy. Recent advancements in virtual reality (VR) technology has expanded its applications in clinical practice, showing potential for enjoyable and engaging experiences that can support well-being and cultivate motivation. The introduction of VR in clinical practice does not happen in isolation, devoid of human actors, or without contextual circumstances. The intersection between the academic project’s procedures and operations, opposite the end-users and the organisation’s culture, significantly influences the implementation process.This thesis presents an interdisciplinary collaboration with two rehabilitation facilities in Frederiksberg Municipality, Denmark, to explore the motivational capabilities of VR combined with cycle ergometers for older adults. It is an account of the efforts to research and design novel user applications with the users for the users to facilitate the technology and disseminate knowledge of clinical VR to healthcare workers, implement and improve existing solutions, and evaluate technology and user acceptance.<br/