The use of sensors in virtual worlds for obesity control A case study about virtual/real motivation to encourage self- determination against obesity through the Internet of Things

Abstract

Obesity is currently one of the most relevant public health concerns worldwide and may cause several diseases (heart diseases, diabetes, increased cholesterol levels, among others). The successful treatment of chronic diseases, particularly obesity, depends strongly on the participation and engagement of the individual as an active subject of his/her own treatment. The use of the Internet of Things in 3D virtual worlds was studied in the current research as a support strategy aiming at offering to the user the feeling of “being present” in a context specially designed to promote motivation and allow interaction with 3D objects. This article reports part of a qualitative case study that surveyed the impact of the combination of 3D virtual worlds with the Internet of Things and mobile devices as elements capable of boosting motivation in subjects enrolled in an obesity control program. The work was based on the theory of self-determination using extrinsic motivation strategies, with a view to achieving a behavioral change capable of promoting improvements in health and life quality. The analysis of preliminary data confirms that the project has the potential to motivate and encourage survey participants in their weight loss process.