Abstract: Objective: To systematically review and synthesize the experience of Virtual Reality rehabilitation for patients with stroke, in order to provide references to improve the accessibility and experience of Virtual Reality rehabilitation for patients with stroke. Methods: We searched domestic and foreign databases from inception to December 1st, 2023, to collect qualitative studies related to the experience and needs of Virtual Reality rehabilitation for patients with stroke. The quality of included studies was evaluated according to JBI Critical Appraisal Tool for qualitative studies. Meta-synthesis was used to integrate results. Results: A total of 16 studies were included, and 56 findings were extracted and grouped into 10 new categories. These categories were integrated into three synthesis results, including perceived benefits for participating in Virtual Reality rehabilitation in patients with stroke, perceived barriers for participating in Virtual Reality rehabilitation in patients with stroke, and Virtual Reality rehabilitation needs and expectations of patients with stroke. Conclusion: Virtual Reality technology provides new ideas for the rehabilitation training of patients with stroke, and its effectiveness is acknowledged by most patients with stroke, so it should be given positive guidance. Future research should actively develop a Virtual Reality rehabilitation system adapted to patients with stroke, strengthen the construction of multidisciplinary teams, improve the rehabilitation model, and promote the development and improvement of Virtual Reality rehabilitation for patients with stroke in China.

Key words: stroke; Virtual Reality; rehabilitation experience; qualitative research; Meta-synthesis