Game Description
MotiVeeR UZeLf is unique, as one of the first VR-games to be used in an Intensive Care Unit. It is specifically meant for people that have a long stay at the ICU and who are limited to their bed. It is known that exercising while staying at the ICU can reduce post ICU recovery time. However, for the critically ill patients, doing the same exercises every day is very tedious. MotiVeeR UZeLf offers the patient a change of environment within VR.

The player can play a painting game or a matching game. In the painting game the player’s brush reveals an image where the brush movements are a natural way to exercise.

We offer images in 7 theme areas. In the match game the player can choose out a number of categories and three difficulty levels. This game also offers a memory challenge.

The games take the patients away from the stress and reality of the ICU environment. The games are easy to understand. The art style is calming, and visually not too stimulating. The game also offers a relaxation mode so players can rest and pace their exercise.

One of the challenges that needed to be overcome was making it playable while seated or lying down. The other was creating an easy to use companion app for the accompanying physiotherapist.

The VR-App showed great results on player acceptance and enjoyment. It was also easy to set up and use for the physiotherapist.

The game was created by ImproVive in collaboration with InmotionVR and UZ KU Leuven – Eline Hagehedooren. It was supported by VR4Rehab and Interreg North-West Europe.