Designing a Game to Reduce Stress for Congestive Heart-Failure (CHF) Patients

摘要

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) patients are particularly susceptible to stress and emotional disturbance, even more so than other cardiac patients. They usually suffer from high blood pressure and irregular heart rate, both of which are highly affected by stress. Stress and blood pressure are associated symptoms, but studies have indicated that blood pressure can be controlled using short slow breathing sessions. In fact, meditative breathing exercises have been used as a powerful stress reduction tool. The goal of this project is to produce a smartphone application that enables CHF patients to practice meditative breathing. An interactive image of a lung accompanies the exercises. This image, which changes color to convey increasing power, is expected to enhance user experience. The application records performance and rewards the user with badges, which are distinct features.