"Dual Task Neglect System: AR-Gamified Assessment and Rehabilitation Application for Hemispatial Neglect"

Introduction: Hemispatial neglect post-right middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke can be effectively addressed with spatial awareness rehabilitation techniques, such as Augmented Reality (AR), which utilize gamification to stimulate the neglected side, enhance patient engagement, and potentially improve outcomes. This study introduces an AR-based Dual-Task Neglect System (DTNS) specifically designed to rehabilitate hemispatial neglect.

Methods: The DTNS comprises two tasks aimed at assessing and rehabilitating hemispatial neglect in real-world settings. Task 1 involves a dragon navigation game where patients use a joystick to guide a dragon toward moving crystals (n=3) of varying speeds and colors, projected into their neglected visual field in real space, which helps clinicians evaluate the extent of neglect. Task 2 is a reward-based rehabilitation coin collection game where patients use touch input to gather coins appearing in real space within a set time. Performance is based on coins collected. Task 1 is reassessed after Task 2 to track improvements. The system's functionality and usability were tested on healthy participants (n=13) aged 17-65, with feedback guiding app refinements. Future work involves testing hemispatial neglect patients.

Results: Younger participants (17-40) found both tasks to be engaging, manageable, and motivating, with no adverse effects observed. Older participants (41-65) also found the tasks engaging, though the coin collection task was considered moderately challenging. All participants perceived DTNS as more motivating and engaging compared to traditional therapies.

Conclusion: The DTNS demonstrates potential as a motivational tool for hemispatial neglect rehabilitation, engaging patients through targeted body movement stimulation and potentially enhancing spatial awareness over time.