Usability of an adaptable video game platform for children with cerebral palsy

Virtual reality is a recent technology incorporated in upper extremity therapy programs for children with cerebral palsy. However, the systems currently being used cannot be graded to meet the skill level of children with cerebral palsy who have severely impaired upper extremities. These systems are often expensive, making them impractical for the clinical and home settings. ldquoHands-Uprdquo was designed as a low-cost adaptable video game platform for upper extremity rehabilitation for children with orthopedic disabilities. To evaluate the platform´s usability, a study was conducted with three children who had different forms of cerebral palsy and the therapists who treat them. The study consisted of exposing the children to a five-week intervention with the platform and obtaining feedback via questionnaires from their therapists. During the intervention sessions, the children played games using markers that were selected based on their therapeutic goals. The usefulness of the platform, or the platform´s ability to assist them with achieving those goals, was assessed with functional tasks. The results of the questionnaires and functional tasks revealed that Hands-Up assisted the participants in achieving their therapeutic goals.