Abstract

The development of efficient and effective virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation systems requires an intimate understanding of function, disability, and the end-user. This chapter presents three aims: 1) provide an overview of United States and international rehabilitation legislation and initiatives related to rehab technology; 2) examine types of rehabilitation therapy (occupational, physical, and speech) and the importance of on-going inter-disciplinary collaboration with computer engineers; and 3) expand knowledge of factors that influence end-users participation in VR rehabilitation, which includes user-technology match, and device compliance. Consideration of these aims will help computer engineers and researchers create VR rehabilitation systems through a collaborative and user-centered approach that meet international standards of practice.