What Holds Back Brain-Computer Interfaces? Uncovering Challenges and Opportunities in BCI-controlled Games for Cerebral Palsy Rehabilitation

Abstract

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) offer promising avenues for cerebral palsy (CP) rehabilitation at home and in the clinic, using games that promote engagement and sustained training effort. Nonetheless, the design constraints of BCI-based CP rehabilitation remain unclear, especially how individuals with CP experience a sense of control through BCI, and how they experience computer-mediated game assistance. To address this gap, we present preliminary clinical and user perspectives on BCI-based CP rehabilitation, drawing on in-clinic insights from a CP therapist and experiential accounts from ten individuals with CP engaging with BCI game prototypes. Sporadic help in BCI games eased monotony, but also fostered doubts regarding agency. The therapist saw BCI rehabilitation as complementary to traditional training, facilitating the transition from playful exercises to autonomous, self-managed training. We outline key challenges and opportunities to inform and empower further design and research of BCI training for CP.