Augmented reality (AR) has the potential to change the way therapy and rehabilitation is understood and administered. It can be used to manipulate the experience of reality, resulting in novel rehabilitative applications including but not limited to augmented mirror box (AMB) manipulations. We present a conceptual framework for the effective use of AR in a therapeutic context developed around the aspects of belief, interactivity, predictability, and decoupling. This framework is based on previous work in perception and emotion manipulation and is derived from and illustrated with a number of empirical studies. In particular, we describe how our augmented reflection technology (ART) system is able to manipulate the experience of reality in an effective way and how this demonstrates the potential of augmented environments to improve health and wellbeing.

Mixed reality rehabilitation systems and games are demonstrating potential as innovative adjunctive therapies for health professionals in their treatment of various hand and upper limb motor impairments. Unilateral motor deficits of the arm, for example, are commonly experienced post stroke. Our TheraMem system provides an augmented reality game environment that contributes to this increasingly rich area of research. We present a prototype system which “fools the brain” by visually amplifying users' hand movements — small actual hand movements lead to perceived larger movements. We validate the usability of our system in an empirical study with forty-five non-clinical participants. In addition, we present early qualitative evidence for the utility of our approach and system for stroke recovery and motor rehabilitation. Future uses of the system are considered by way of conclusion.