Interacting with virtual characters, objects and environments: investigating immersive virtual reality in rehabilitation

PurposeThis pilot study aimed to (a) investigate opportunities for immersive Virtual Reality (VR) technology in communication, physical, and visual rehabilitation by examining the interaction of people without disabilities in a range of structured virtual environments; and (b) validate research protocols that might be used to evaluate the physical, visual, and verbal interaction of users in virtual worlds, and their safety while using the technology.MethodsThirteen adults identifying as people without disability were exposed to VR via a head-mounted display. A video-review method was used to qualitatively code and analyse each participant's communication, movement, orientation, and support needs.ResultsAll participants oriented to their virtual environments sufficiently to use applications. Their spoken language was effective for interaction, although unconventional social behaviours were also observed. Two participants reported minor adverse reactions consistent with mild cybersickness.Conclusion The results provide insight into the types of environments and characters that support the greatest communicative, physical, and visual interaction in immersive VR. The tested protocols are useful to assess safety when using VR, and to observe communicative, physical, and visual interaction with virtual environments and characters. Implications for future research and use of VR with people with communication, physical and visual disability are discussed. Safe use of virtual reality in rehabilitation requires careful assessment. Comprehensive observational protocols were sufficient to manage safety concerns.Rehabilitation applications need rapid responsivity in verbal interactions to ensure users are immersed in interactions.Non-verbal cues from virtual avatars best direct user attention in the environment.Novice virtual reality users largely controlled technology using their dominant hand. They could control VR successfully with one hand.