Discussing Risks and Benefits in the Future of Hybrid Rehabilitation and Fitness in Mixed Reality
Jana Franceska Funke, Enrico Rukzio
TL;DR
Problem: The paper examines how mixed reality can enable rehabilitation and fitness in a hybrid care future while identifying associated risks. Approach: A position paper that analyzes benefits (Real-Time Visualization, No Travel Distances, Worldwide Connection, Motivation) and risks (Stronger Worldwide Competition, Bubble Effect, Social Impoverishment for Single Living Persons, Home Isolation) of remote MR-enabled telephysiotherapy and teletraining, and proposes improved feedback and guidance via VR and motion tracking. Contributions: A structured, section-wise risk-benefit framework and design considerations to realize MR-assisted home rehabilitation. Significance: The insights inform design, implementation, and policy choices that maximize accessibility and social well-being in hybrid care ecosystems.
Abstract
In a world where in-person context transitions more into remote and hybrid concepts, we should consider new concepts of interaction in health and rehabilitation and what advantages and disadvantages they bring. One of the rising topics is mixed reality, where we can use the advantages of immersive 3D, 360-degree environments. Meanwhile, physical activity is further decreasing and with it negative effects increase through sedentary behaviour or wrong and untrained movements. In this position paper, we discuss these new risks and potential benefits of mixed reality technology when used for rehabilitation and fitness. We conclude with suggesting better feedback and guidance for physical movement and tasks at home. Improving feedback and guidance for participants could be achieved through using new technologies like virtual reality and motion tracking.