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AbstractPurposeMethodsResultsConclusions\nSupporting the relational worlds of people living with dementia, especially the spousal dyad, is a growing focus in dementia care as is advancing the therapeutic use of music in dementia care. This paper describes a mixed-methods, multi-phase, iterative research study designed to develop the Music Memory Makers (MMM) Duet System, a novel therapeutic music technology, that allows non-musicians to play a personalized repertoire of songs arranged as duets.Following a pilot phase to iteratively assess and refine the MMM Duet System for recreational and therapeutic purposes, multiple sources of data were used to investigate five older spousal dyads’ experiences with the system, two couples living with dementia and three who were not. We assessed perceptions of task difficulty, joint agency, and enjoyment as well as therapeutic benefits associated with enhancing the spousal relationship and sense of couplehood.Findings suggest playing meaningful songs together is an enjoyable interactive activity that prompts musical reminiscence, involves joint agency, and supports relationship continuity within a relational, positive approach to dementia care. All couples mastered the task, none evaluated it as “very challenging,” and positive couple interactions were evoked, commonly before and after playing the duets.The MMM Duet System is recommended for further research and development as an innovative way to support couples living with dementia with commercial implications, and as a new music technology suitable for use as a research tool.Music making is an engaging, rewarding activity promoting social bonding and wellbeing that with technology innovation, can be extended to non-musicians and people with differing skills, abilities, and preferences.The MMM Duet System is a promising new music technology that supports the relationship of people living with dementia and their spousal caregivers by encouraging relationship continuity and sense of couplehood. Supporting caregivers enables people with dementia to remain longer in their homes and communities.Practical suggestions are offered to develop music technology suitable for use by older adults and people living with dementia, e.g., involving participants who live with dementia, assembling interdisciplinary research teams, adopting iterative, participant-focused approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, typing is considered as one of the highly important aspects of accessibility that the visually impaired and blinds struggle with the most as existing virtual keyboards are complex and slow. This paper proposes a new text entry method named SwingBoard for visually impaired and blind smartphone users to solve their accessibility problem. It supports a–z, 0–9, 7 punctuations, 12 symbols, and eight keyboard functionalities that are arranged in 8 zones (specific range of angles), four segments, two modes, and different gestures. The proposed keyboard is suitable for the either single-handed or both-handed operation that tracks swipe angle and length to trigger any of the 66 key events. The key triggering process is based on only swiping the finger at different angles with different lengths. Typing speed of SwingBoard is increased by including some effective features such as the quick alphabet and number mode shifting, haptic feedback feature, talkback on swipe to learn the map quickly, and customizable swipe length feature. At the end of 150 one-minute tests, seven blind participants reached an average of 19.89 words per minute (WPM) with an 88% accuracy rate which is one of the fastest-ever recorded average typing speeds for the blind. Almost all users found SwingBoard effective, easy to learn and want to keep using it. SwingBoard is a handy virtual keyboard for visually impaired people with amazing typing speed and accuracy. Rehabilitation would be easier for a visually impaired/disabled person who can adapt the current technology-oriented world and use communication tools easily. As visually impaired and blind people faced a lot of problems in their regular life because of their inability to see things, coping with the evolving world's demands from a person to do a certain task using smart devices would be easier for them with the proposed virtual keyboard topology. As the number of visually impaired and blind users of smartphones rises, faster typing becomes a vital aspect of the smartphone experience. Deaf-blind communities are expanding but solutions for them are not increasing at the same pace because of the limitation of implication. Research on a virtual keyboard with the proposed eyes-free swipe-based typing operation and ears-free reliability on haptic feedback would enable others to create new solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual impairment-related disabilities have become increasingly pervasive. Current reports estimate a total of 36 million persons with blindness and 217 million persons with moderate to severe visual impairment worldwide. Assistive technologies (AT), including text-to-speech software, navigational/spatial guides, and object recognition tools have the capacity to improve the lives of people with blindness and low vision. However, access to such AT is constrained by high costs and implementation barriers. More recently, expansive growth in mobile computing has enabled many technologies to be translated into mobile applications. As a result, a marketplace of accessibility apps has become available, yet no framework exists to facilitate navigation of this voluminous space. We developed the BLV (Blind and Low Vision) App Arcade: a fun, engaging, and searchable curated repository of app AT broken down into 11 categories spanning a wide variety of themes from entertainment to navigation. Additionally, a standardized evaluation metric was formalized to assess each app in five key dimensions: reputability, privacy, data sharing, effectiveness, and ease of use/accessibility. In this paper, we describe the methodological approaches, considerations, and metrics used to find, store and score mobile applications. The development of a comprehensive and standardized database of apps with a scoring rubric has the potential to increase access to reputable tools for the visually impaired community, especially for those in low- and middle-income demographics, who may have access to mobile devices but otherwise have limited access to more expensive technologies or services. A wide array of assistive mobile applications now serve as low cost, convenient, and effective alternatives to standard tools in the rehabilitation domain. Given an extensive (and growing) marketplace of assistive apps, we highlight the importance of developing standardized evaluation frameworks that serve to assess the merit, functionality, and accessibility of tools in respective rehabilitation fields. To provide an introduction to a novel resource accessible to the public to exhibit verified and reliable assistive apps for the visually impaired community, especially for those in low- and middle-income demographics who may not have access to common technologies and services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the usability, usefulness and user experience of the Forward with Dementia website for people with dementia and family carers, and identifies strategies to improve web design for this population. The website was iteratively user-tested by 12 participants (five people with dementia, seven carers) using the Zoom platform. Data collection involved observations, semi-structured interviews and questionnaires. Integrative mixed-method data analysis was used, informed by inductive thematic qualitative analysis. Users of Version 1 of the website experienced web functionality, navigation and legibility issues. Strategies for desirable web design were identified as simplifying functions, streamlining navigation and decluttering page layouts. Implementation of strategies produced improvements in usability, user experience and usefulness in Version 2, with mean System Usability Scale scores improving from 15 to 84, and mean task completion improving from 55% to 89%. The user journey for people with dementia and carers overlapped, but each group had their own unique needs in the context of web design. The interplay between a website's content, functionality, navigation and legibility can profoundly influence user perceptions of a website. Dementia-related websites play an important role in informing audiences of management strategies, service availability and planning for the progression of dementia. Findings of this study may assist in guiding future web development targeting this population. People with cognitive impairment can provide useful feedback on design and accessibility of websites, and their input should be obtained when developing digital applications for this group. This paper provides practical suggestions for website design features to improve function, legibility and navigation of websites for older people and people living with dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rehabilitation robots with intent recognition are helping people with dysfunction to enjoy better lives. Many rehabilitation robots with intent recognition have been developed by academic institutions and commercial companies. However, there is no systematic summary about the application of intent recognition in the field of rehabilitation robots. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to summarize the application of intent recognition in rehabilitation robots, analyze the current status of their research, and provide cutting-edge research directions for colleagues. Literature searches were conducted on Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Medline. Search terms included "rehabilitation robot", "intent recognition", "exoskeleton", "prosthesis", "surface electromyography (sEMG)" and "electroencephalogram (EEG)". References listed in relevant literature were further screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. In this field, most studies have recognized movement intent by kinematic, sEMG, and EEG signals. However, in practical studies, the development of intent recognition in rehabilitation robots is limited by the hysteresis of kinematic signals and the weak anti-interference ability of sEMG and EEG signals. Intent recognition has achieved a lot in the field of rehabilitation robotics but the key factors limiting its development are still timeliness and accuracy. In the future, intent recognition strategy with multi-sensor information fusion may be a good solution. As a technology, intent recognition can become a part of rehabilitation, assist patients to complete daily life activities, and improve their quality of life. Rehabilitation training equipment for treatment usually adopts a relatively stable prediction method, which aims to stimulate the enthusiasm of users to participate in training. Functionally enhanced rehabilitation aids have high requirements for the timeliness of movement intent recognition, and its purpose is to assist patients to complete activities of daily life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with physical disabilities often require lifetime support and experience challenges to maintain or (re)define their level of independence. Assistive living technologies (ALT) are promising to increase independent living and execution of activities of daily living (ADL). This paper provides a systematic literature review that aims to analyse the present state of the literature about the impact of ALT on perceived independence of people with a physical disability receiving long-term care. Databases Embase, Medline, and Web of Science were searched for eligible studies from 2010 or later. Nine studies were included, of which seven qualitative, one quantitative, and one mixed methods. Quality was generally high. ALT enabled participants to execute ADL. We found six themes for the impact of ALT on perceived independence: feeling enabled, choice and control, feeling secure, time alone, feeling less needy, and participation. ALT appears to impact perceived independence in many ways, exceeding merely the executional aspect of independence. Existing research is limited and quite one-sided. More large-scale studies are needed in order to inform care organisations how to implement ALT, especially considering societal developments and challenges impacting long-term care. People with a physical disability receiving long-term care experience that assistive living technology impacted their independence. Their independence is increased by making them feel enabled, secure, and less needy and increasing their choice and control, time alone, and participation. Most studies focused on the use of environmental control systems by people with spinal cord injury. More research is needed to evaluate long-term effects of diverse assistive living technologies used by people with a physical disability receiving long-term care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST). Searches were conducted in August 2021 on four electronic databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eligible papers included cross-sectional validation studies evaluating the psychometric properties of all QUEST versions. Cronbach's alpha, intraclass correlation coefficient, and comparison tools were reported. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. Nineteen studies were included in this systematic review. Results showed that the QUEST and QUEST 2.0 were available in 10 languages, and most validation studies analysed this tool in patients using mobility devices in various clinical conditions. One article analysed the child version (QUEST 2.1) in English. The most analysed psychometric property was Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency in 14 out of 19 studies, with values ranging between 0.74 and 0.79. Overall, 17 out of 19 studies were of adequate quality, though responsiveness was never studied. Our systematic review showed that the QUEST and its subsequent versions are reliable and valid measurement instruments to evaluate satisfaction in patients with different disabilities using various assistive technologies. This study provides useful information on the instrument's psychometric properties in different populations and cultures. This systematic review verify the appropriateness of the "Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology" (QUEST), as a measure of satisfaction; This systematic review allow clinicians to keep up to date with new versions of the tool, new countries of validation and population in which it can be used. This study supports clinicians in making informed decisions when choosing assessment tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to describe non-participation during the outcome measurement step of the wheeled mobility service delivery process (WMSDP) based on the Functional Mobility Assessment (FMA)-Uniform Dataset (UDS) Registry. The WMSDP is a standard framework for the provision of wheeled mobility devices, and several factors influence the client's experience throughout the process. Patient-reported outcomes are one way to measure the client's experience as part of a quality improvement program. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on the FMA-UDS Registry to measure the response rate during the outcome measurement step of the WMSDP and describe the reasons an individual did not complete the FMA-UDS. The FMA-UDS was examined at two time points: pre-delivery and post-delivery of the wheeled mobility device. As of September 2, 2021, 10,253 cases have been entered into the FMA-UDS Registry. 2,247 cases were no longer participating pre-delivery, and an additional 3,905 cases were no longer participating post-delivery. The most common reasons for non-participation in the FMA-UDS pre-delivery and post-delivery included: equipment not delivered; provider no longer participating in the FMA-UDS; funding issues; no new equipment; client opted out; loss in contact; deceased; returned equipment; and other. The type and frequency of non-participation in the outcome measurement step of the WMSDP is critical to understanding why individuals participate in outcome measures and provides insight into the barriers and facilitators for the implementation of quality improvement programs. The outcome measurement system provides a structured mechanism for consistent communication between the client and the professionals providing the service, thereby identifying issues earlier in the process and mitigating frustration throughout the wheeled mobility service delivery process. The role of a credentialed professional, specifically an Assistive Technology Professional, in the wheeled mobility service delivery process could emphasize the importance of the follow-up and outcome measurement steps, which may increase the consumers' participation rate and demonstrate the effectiveness of devices and services. Clients who no longer participate in the outcome measurement process do not have the sustained support of the interprofessional team, and possess an increased chance that they will not get their mobility needs met through the health care system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited evidence on the strategies, resources, and tools shown to improve winter mobility and community participation. This paper describes a multifaceted approach taken to develop an mHealth application that provides information, resources, and strategies to facilitate winter mobility for mobility device users, service providers, community organisations, and researchers. The study was conducted in three phases: (1) A scoping review of peer-reviewed and grey literature was completed to identify literature that reported on tools, strategies, resources, and recommendations used to promote winter mobility; (2) Online asynchronous focus groups were conducted to identify the type of content that mobility device users wanted to include in the web-based application; and (3) A prototype mHealth application was developed based on the findings from the previous phases. Using a rapid prototyping process that included stakeholder review through an online survey, four cycles of application design and development were undertaken. The scoping review identified 23 peer-reviewed studies and limited grey literature on winter mobility strategies, resources and recommendations. Twenty-four participants from across Canada engaged in one of five focus groups. Focus group analysis led to the development of the content categories for the mHealth application. The initial prototype application developed was reviewed by; 27 mobility device users, 16 health care providers, and seven consumer organisation representatives identified areas of strength and further refinement in regard to application design. The approach used in this study provided a method to develop an application based on the ideas, needs, and interests of a variety of stakeholders. Once fully developed, the application has the potential to fill the gaps related to the lack of a unified collection of winter mobility strategies and resources, and open the dialogue on methods to improve winter participation among mobility device users. Despite winter conditions being a common challenge among mobility device users, there is an absence of an organised approach towards helping individuals manage their winter mobility needs. As the development and usage of mHealth applications continues to increase, it is valuable to use methods of designing applications based on the ideas, needs, and interests of a variety of stakeholders. Development of a framework for collating information on winter mobility strategies and resources is the first step towards launching an mHealth application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a review of studies that evaluated technology devices to sustain various forms of mobility in older people with cognitive impairment or dementia and mobility problems (e.g., inability to ambulate or difficulties to orient with consequent failures to reach relevant destinations). A literature search was performed for English language articles indexed in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. This search was then supplemented with an ancestral and forward search. The search covered the period ranging between January 2010 and October 2020. Twenty-seven articles were included in the review. They were divided into four groups according to whether they aimed to promote (a) supported ambulation, (b) use of safe power wheelchair, (c) ambulation guided by orientation cues, and (d) ambulation with GPS-based assistance. The studies were coded in terms of the objective pursued, technology used, participants involved, strategies applied to assess the technology, and outcome reported. A variety of technology devices are available to address the mobility problems of older people with cognitive impairment or dementia. The devices' accessibility and usability differ widely. Data on their impact are still largely preliminary and new systematic research is needed. A variety of mobility problems may afflict older people with cognitive impairment or dementia and curtail their opportunities to freely move indoor or outdoor. Technology devices have been developed to (a) promote forms of supported ambulation, (b) facilitate safe use of power wheelchairs, (c) deliver orientation/navigation cues, and (d) ensure tracking and possible assistance. The technology devices differ in terms of accessibility and affordability, with some of them readily available and others at a developmental stage. Data on the effectiveness of the various technology devices in reducing the impact of the mobility problems are still largely preliminary and new systematic research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many wheelchair users experience disabilities in stabilising and positioning of the head. For these users, adequate head support is required. Although several types of head supports are available, further development of these systems is needed to improve functionality and quality of life, especially for the group of severely challenged users. For this group, user needs have not been clearly established. In this article, we provide an overview of the state-of-the-art in wheelchair mounted head supports and associated scientific evidence in order to identify requirements for the next generation of head support systems. A scoping review was performed including scientific literature (PubMed/Scopus), patents (Espacenet/Google Scholar) and commercial information. Types of head support and important system characteristics for future head support systems were proposed from consultations with wheelchair users (n = 3), occupational therapists (n = 3) and an expert panel. Forty scientific papers, 90 patents and 80 descriptions of commercial devices were included in the scoping review. The identified head support systems were categorised per head support type. Only limited scientific clinical evidence with respect to the effectiveness of existing head support systems was found. From the user and expert consultations, a need was identified for personalised head support systems that intuitively combine changes in sitting and head position with continuous optimal support of the head to accommodate severely challenged users. This study presents the state-of-the-art in head support systems. Additionally, several important system characteristics are introduced that provide guidance for the development and improvement of head supports. Especially for the group of severely challenged wheelchair users, current head support systems require further development to improve their users' quality of life. The desired system characteristics which are discussed in this review are an important step in the definition of requirements for the next generation of head supports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inclusion is a core philosophy for health practitioners and human service users, and co-production is a way to achieve inclusion. Australia's assistive technology (AT) community seeks to include and amplify the voices of service and product users at multiple levels. Implementation of genuine partnerships for inclusion is however challenging. This paper describes the iterative co-design process undertaken to structure and deliver a peer-led information and support program, enabling AT users and supporters to build their AT decision making capability and share their expertise with each other and the broader community. A living labs approach was grounded in co-design principles and drew on the peer education, AT competency and capability-building knowledge base. Methods included embedding intersectional capabilities within the service, and the engagement of over 600 people in design thinking and program iterations through surveys, focus groups, journey mapping and think tanks. A national, peer-led, co-designed online community for AT users was established and has been running since 2017. The community of 5000 users contribute to a peer-led information and support initiative geared to share expertise and build AT decision making capability. Service delivery by the AT user community and for the AT user community requires a commitment to co-design, and an engagement with concepts of risk, competency, scope of practice and capability. The learnings from AT Chat have implications for AT services on this journey everywhere. Active co-design of AT services meets human rights and good practice benchmarks required by contemporary services. Foregrounding AT users within program design and delivery, brings a range of positive outcomes and possibilities for the way services are delivered. AT users have substantial untapped potential which brings tangible outcomes for other AT users, health professionals, service provider organizations and for society. Development of paid roles and pathways to recognize the skills of AT users, and indeed AT communities has potential to improve AT user self-efficacy as well as to contribute to the AT workforce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only 1 in 10 people with disabilities can access assistive devices, underlining the critical need for low-cost assistive products. This paper describes the design evolution of a manual user-operated standing wheelchair (SWC), translating from prototype to product. The SWC design has been refined over 5 years through multiple iterations based on comments from user trials. The SWC product, Arise, provides standing functionality, facile outdoor mobility, affordability, customisability, and is aesthetically pleasing. A one-time fitting and training ensure optimal effort for operation, correct posture, and comfortable user experience. The SWC accommodates users of different sizes and body weights (up to 110 kg) and minimises user effort with the use of a gas spring. Incorporating discrete adjustments enables customisation while retaining the advantages of mass manufacturing, which is necessary for ensuring affordability. The SWC has been field-tested and well received by over 100 wheelchair users, and Arise was launched recently by the industry partner. It should be noted that RESNA cautions on the use of any standing device without medical consultation. Nevertheless, with appropriate dissemination and awareness, it is anticipated that the affordable SWC product, Arise, will immensely benefit the eligible users and make a difference in their quality of life. Provides standing functionality, outdoor mobility, affordability and customisability Accommodates users of different sizes and body weights in a mass-manufacturable design Ergonomic design reduces net user effort during sit-to-stand, stand-to-sit activity Design iterated and refined based on feedback from over 100 user trials [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To analyse the versatility and adaptability of commercially available exoskeletons for mobility assistance and their adaptation to diverse pathologies through a review of clinical trials in robotic lower limb training. A computer-aided search in bibliographic databases (PubMed and Web of Science) of clinical trials published up to September 2020 was done. To be selected for detailed review, clinical trials had to meet the following criteria: (1) a protocol was designed and approved, (2) participants were people with pathologies, and (3) the trials were not a single case study. Clinical trial data were collected, extracted, and analysed, considering: objectives, trial participants, number of sessions, pathologies involved, and conclusions. The search resulted in 312 potentially relevant studies of seven commercial exoskeletons, of which 135 passed the preliminary screening; and 69 studies were finally selected. Of the 69 clinical trials included in the review about 50% involved Spinal Cord Injury participants, while roughly 25% focussed on stroke and two trials corresponded to patients with both disorders. The rest were composed of neurological diseases and trauma disorders. The use of a single wearable robot for different medical conditions in various diseases is a challenge. Based on this comparative, the properties of the exoskeletons that improve the working ability with different pathologies and patient conditions have been evaluated. Suggestions were made for developing a new lower-limb exoskeleton based on various modules with a distributed control system to improve versatility in wearable technology for different gait pattern progression. Wearable robotic exoskeletons for gait assistance have been analysed from the perspective of adaptation to different diseases. This paper emphasizes the importance of personalized therapies and adaptive assistive technology. Suggestions were made for a new modular exoskeleton capable of addressing the issue of low versatility characterizing currently wearable assistive technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The voice is an important tool for people who use it daily in their occupations. However, what technological options are available to such individuals to allow them to monitor or take care of their voices? The purpose of this study is to answer two research questions: (1) What technologies exist to monitor or take care of the voice in occupational voice users? (2) What is the technology readiness level (TRL) of the technologies used to monitor or take care of the voice in occupational voice users? Embase, IEEE, Medline, Proquest, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, A systematic literature review was conducted. Articles that reported results regarding technologies (hardware, software, or mobile apps) that were used to monitor or take care of the voice in occupational voice users were included. After reviewing 4581 abstracts, 10 full text studies were included in the literature review. The technologies found include 30% hardware, 30% hardware plus software, and 50% mobile apps, with an overall TRL mean of 5.3 (SD = 2.3). Further research is necessary for higher validity in the studies and to increase the readiness in the development of current technologies to offer more options for this population. The evidence for the impact of the use of the technologies for occupational voice users is still low There is emerging evidence that mobile apps and artificial intelligence algorithms can be used to investigate vocal disorders or potential risks in occupational voice users More research is required to increase the readiness developmental stage of current technologies for occupational voice users [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper undertakes a critical assessment of the use of smartphone apps for transportation by people with intellectual disabilities. Although apps for transportation such as Uber and Careem have been developed to assist people with disabilities and have numerous benefits, people with intellectual disabilities tend to encounter their own set of difficulties in accessing these apps. This paper presents the research findings drawn from a focus group discussion conducted with nine people with moderate to mild intellectual disabilities in Riyadh, by using a qualitative study focussed on the interpretative paradigm. From the interview findings, some relevant themes were identified. These were: transportation issues encountered by people with intellectual disabilities, the extent and manner of the use of smartphone apps for transportation, the benefits enjoyed by those individuals in using smartphone apps for transportation and the difficulties encountered by them. The paper also discusses the implications for practice and presents some useful recommendations, including the need for family support and government assistance. Smartphone apps introduced specifically for transportation can be extensively supportive for individuals with intellectual disabilities prominently in terms of ease of use, low cost and flexible navigation. It is found that smartphone apps for transportation have been contributory in fulfilling the mobility requirements of intellectually disabled people. Transportation apps like Careem and Uber are very much popular in Saudi Arabia, specifically among people with intellectual disabilities. Such people frequently use the apps and are happy with their key attributes in addressing their transportation issues. The apps can be further promoted by responsible authorities for facilitating people having intellectual disabilities with strengthened and easy access to learning and working opportunities. Further research studies can be organized with a focus on determining creative ways in which technology integration can play a role in improving the mobility and fostering social inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities. Government authorities can impose policies and measures for safeguarding the rights of this particular group and advancing awareness among society members for collectively working towards their well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to identify evidence supporting emergency vehicle technology in out-of-vehicle systems and in-vehicle-systems that can be used by people with hearing impairment. We conducted a systematized review to determine what technologies, at any readiness level, are currently being developed in the area of emergency vehicle detection technology. The studies and websites of technologies for emergency vehicles that are currently available to the general public were identified by searching in one electronic database, Scopus and grey literature using Google, respectively. A total of 359 studies were retrieved from Scopus. The grey literature search identified 189 websites related to the search terms under study. Technological devices have included satellite, out-of-vehicle and in-vehicle technology. The analysis shows that most of the technologies are at the stage of laboratory testing. Knowing the availability and the level of readiness of devices, as well as their effectiveness, provides rehabilitation professionals with tools for making evidence-based recommendations to clients with hearing impairment. Knowing which devices are available also provides information to individuals living with hearing impairment so that they can play an active role in the decision-making process of acquiring the existing technologies. So far, few technologies have been identified, and most of them are in the laboratory development stage (i.e., low product readiness level). These results indicate a justified need for the development of new in-vehicle technologies to detect emergency vehicles and actions to transform the new devices into products that are available for people with hearing impairment. There is a need to design new assistive technology devices that are intended to detect emergency service vehicles, which in turn may reduce stress and anxiety related to driving for people with hearing impairment. The majority of the included articles discussed siren detection, with only three discussing the necessary next step of communication to humans. Due to the research being in its early stages, the evidence for emergency vehicle technology on health and participation-related outcomes in people living with hearing impairment is unknown. Most websites do not include information on where to purchase emergency vehicle technology or how much the devices cost, thus making it difficult for people with hearing impairment or rehabilitation professionals to make informed decisions about acquiring these technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To offer guidance for future welfare technology research, this review provides an overview of current knowledge gaps and research needs as reported in primary scientific studies addressing the implementation of welfare technology for older people, people with disabilities and informal caregivers. This paper conducted a state-of-the-art review based on systematic searches in 11 databases followed by a descriptive qualitative analysis of 21 selected articles. Knowledge gaps and research needs were identified concerning two categories: research designs and populations and focus of research. The articles reported needs for comparative studies, longitudinal studies, and demonstration trials as well as the development of co-design processes involving technology users. They also called for studies applying a social system theory approach, involving healthy and frail older adults, representative samples of users within and across countries, informal and formal caregivers, inter-and multidisciplinary teams, and care organizations. Moreover, there are reported needs for studies of acquirement, adoption and acceptance of welfare technology, attitudes, beliefs, and context related to welfare technology, caregiver perspectives on welfare technology, services to provide welfare technology and welfare technology itself. There are considerable knowledge gaps and research needs concerning the implementation of welfare technology. They relate not only to the research focus but also to research designs, a social system theory approach and study populations. When planning for the implementation of welfare technology for older people and persons with disabilities, it is important to be aware that necessary evidence and guidance may not always be available in peer-reviewed scientific literature but considerable knowledge gaps and research needs remain. Actors implementing welfare technology are encouraged to include researchers in their projects to study, document and report experiences made, and thereby contribute to building the evidence base and supporting evidence-based implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify and describe the aims, methodological approaches, and major findings of studies on the use of STT among secondary pupils (age 12–18) with learning difficulties published from January 2000 to April 2022. This scoping review includes empirical studies published in peer-reviewed journals and grey literature between January 2000 and April 2022. Searches were conducted in April 2022 in three databases: ERIC, PsycINFO and Scopus. In addition, related reviews were manually screened for relevant papers. Eight peer-revied studies and five publications of grey literature were found to meet the inclusion criteria; two studies employed experimental designs, four employed quasi-experimental designs and seven employed explorative designs. Six studies described STT as an assistive technology (a compensatory aid for poor writing performance); two assessed STT as an instructional technology to determine whether it improves overall writing and related skills (e.g., reading). Results suggest that STT may increase pupils' abilities to produce texts with fewer errors, provide help with spelling and improve reading comprehension and word recognition. To date, there is a paucity of high-quality research on the use of STT among adolescents with LD. The scoping review shows that very little research has been conducted on the use of STT for adolescents with learning difficulties in secondary education. Findings from the studies identified five areas of interest: writing related skills, text assessment, writing processes, accuracy of the technology, and participants' experiences. Findings indicate that writing performance among students with learning difficulties improves when using STT. Parents, teachers, and pupils report positive experiences with the technology, particularly for students with severe reading and writing difficulties. There is a great need for more robust research on the use of speech-to-text technology (STT) in educational settings, especially on its effect on writing skills Studies describe STT as either an assistive (a compensatory aid for poor writing performance) or instructional technology (aiming to improve learning in general). It is important that practitioners are aware of the different aims and possible consequences of introducing STT to learners with writing difficulties. STT provides both opportunities and challenges for writers with learning difficulties in secondary education. Findings indicate that writing performance among students with learning difficulties improves when using STT, yet inaccuracy of the technology was presented as one of the main challenges. Parents, teachers, and pupils report positive experiences with the technology, particularly for students with severe reading and writing difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dementia is a global health challenge, and people living with dementia (PLWD) are especially susceptible to reduced engagement in meaningful occupations, including social participation. In the past few decades, socially assistive technologies continue to be developed amidst a rapidly evolving technological landscape to support the social health of PLWD and their caregivers. Examples include social robots, virtual reality, smart home technology, and various digital technologies, such as mobile applications for tablets and smartphones. Despite an increasing body of research and interest in this field, several gaps relating to the design and implementation process of socially assistive technologies continue to undermine their relevance for PLWD in daily life. In this paper, some of these gaps are highlighted and the role of occupational therapy in the design and implementation of socially assistive technology is presented. In the design process, occupational therapists are uniquely skilled to advise and advocate for the tailoring and personalisation of technology to address the occupational needs of PLWD. In the implementation of socially assistive technologies, occupational therapists are skilled to educate, train, and conduct ongoing evaluations with PLWD and their caregivers, to incorporate socially assistive technologies into their routine and daily lives. We recommend that occupational therapists should continue to be acquainted with such technologies through continuous professional development and educational curricula. Moreover, we highlight the necessary collaboration between occupational therapists, technology developers, and researchers to enhance the process of designing and implementing socially assistive technology, so that their relevance for PLWD and their caregivers can be maximised. Developers and designers of socially assistive technology should consider the disease trajectory of different types of dementia, as well as the different needs, abilities, preferences, occupations and routines of people living with dementia (PLWD) and/or their caregivers. Collaborations between technology developers, researchers, and occupational therapists should take place iteratively throughout the process of designing and implementing socially assistive technology to maximise their relevance and applicability for people living with dementia and their caregivers. To continue enhancing the current role of occupational therapy in socially assistive technology provision, occupational therapists should keep up to date with socially assistive technology that are being developed to support the social health of PLWD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are about 2.2 billion people with visual impairment all over the world. In order to improve the quality of life for visually impaired people, various devices have been developed that support the users to make them capable of performing everyday work. There have been considerable advancements in the development of assistive devices over the last few decades. This work aims to review the research work of past decade to explore the technologies used in the assistive devices for the mobility of the people with visual impairment. It focuses on range sensors based (RSB) solutions and to present a comprehensive comparison for researchers to improve the quality of the assistive devices. In order to improve life quality of about 2.2 billion people with visual impairment in the world, various assistive devices have been developed. This work aims to review the research work of past decade to explore the technologies used in the assistive devices for the mobility of the people with visual impairment. It focuses on RSB solutions and their comparison. Various devices developed or the people with visual impairment, in last decade are described along with their workings. Authors also introduced, their own, newly developed assistive device for the people with visual impairment. The feedback from the people with visual impairment, about assistive technology, is also included in the paper. This study will benefit researchers developing assistive devices to help for the mobility of the people with visual impairment. Through user feedback and evaluation of the assistive devices, the authors have come to the conclusion that performance, weight and cost of the assistive devices are always important considerations to make the assistive devices more popular among their users. Although assistive device cannot rehabilitate a visually impaired person, range sensor-based assistive device may have following implications: •Use of assistive device is growing, and performance, weight and cost of assistive devices are always important considerations so that proposed technology solution should widely be accepted and adopted by the visually impaired people. •The adaptability and acceptability of an assistive device by the visually impaired people must be considered during design phase. •Proposed assistive technological solutions should meet all the needed functions. •Performance of these devices should be assessed in application context so that these devices may help the visually impaired to perform their tasks independently. •At the end, a new light weight and low-cost device developed by authors, is also given, that could be used to assist the visually impaired people to move independently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and methodsResultsConclusionsIndividuals with reduced vision may rely on handheld magnifiers for near reading of texts on household items such as food packaging and far reading of information notices and signposts. Smartphones have become favoured magnification devices due to their pervasiveness. Users typically take a photo of the text, view the image with magnification and explore details by panning in two-dimensions. However, two-dimensional panning is cumbersome, confusing and slow.To improve the magnification experience, we implemented a proof-of-concept magnifier that reflows text to fit the device’s viewport width. The user navigates through the text by scrolling up/down. Our implementation relies on a novel pixel-based text reflow image analysis algorithm.The prototype can successfully reflow text printed on sheets of paper such as notices. Initial tests showed that users preferred the smart digital magnifier over ordinary magnification.More work is needed to successfully handle other important use cases such as electronic information boards and household product packaging. We discuss open challenges and future directions for smart magnifiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assistive technologies (ATs) promote participation and inclusion in society, and support access to health, social services, education, work and other important life experiences for persons with disabilities, older people and those with chronic conditions. The Global Report on Assistive Technology, launched in May 2022 by WHO and UNICEF, calls for concrete actions to improve access to AT globally, and recognizes AT as both a means to, and an end itself, in the achievement of rights of persons with disabilities. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD, 2006) is the most widely ratified human rights convention, affirming the right to participation in society on an equal basis with others. In this paper, we highlight examples of how AT may play a role in realizing each of the fundamental rights affirmed in the UNCRPD. We conducted an indicative literature search for relevant literature to each of the substantive articles of the CRPD. Assistive technology plays a critical role in achieving the rights affirmed by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Ensuring adequate provision of AT by states parties is critical to the progressive realization of the rights of persons with disabilities and to fulfilling commitments made by states parties upon ratification of the CRPD. Assistive technology (AT) is critical to enable full participation of persons with disability in society and the achievement of rights affirmed by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Governments and other key stakeholders should endeavour to improve access to AT through inclusive, evidence-informed programs and services. Advocacy is required to improve access to AT through universal health coverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age associated cognitive impairments (CIs) result in difficulties with a wide range of daily activities. As the older adult population increases, so does the importance of understanding and supporting the needs and disabilities of those with CIs. The Enhancing Neurocognitive Health, Abilities, Networks, and Community Engagement (ENHANCE) Centre was established with a focus on developing assistive technology to support the socialisation, transportation, and prospective memory needs of older adults with CIs. The extent to which relevant literature in these domains existed was unknown. A scoping review identified existing research meeting the following criteria: participants aged 50+ years classified as having a CI due to mild cognitive impairment (MCI), traumatic brain injury (TBI), or stroke; and a focus on technology-based support for socialisation, transportation, and/or prospective memory activities. Qualitative and quantitative data are reported from relevant studies. In addition to few studies available, it was common for studies to include 20 or fewer participants. Most assessed technology interactions at one time and few studies examined longitudinal use and benefit. While each paper examined one aspect of user-centred design, no technologies were reported that underwent all stages of the user-centred design process, from needs assessment to iterative design and usability testing, to efficacy trial. Gaps highlight notable directions for future research and the important role ENHANCE can play in addressing the needs and disabilities of older adults with CIs. Although older adults with common cognitive impairments often experience challenges in the domains of socialisation, transportation, and/or prospective memory, few studies exist that examine assistive technology solutions in these domains. Additional research with more robust designs and larger sample sizes is needed to discover and assess assistive technology solutions for the needs and disabilities of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). The ENHANCE Centre will employ a systematic process of needs assessments, user testing, and efficacy tests to develop novel technology solutions to support the needs of older adults with common cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper critically reviews and reflects on the processes for providing Assistive Technology (AT) services to Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in Bangladesh, India and Nepal. The aim is to investigate the AT service delivery systems in these countries and suggest improvements where weaknesses are identified. We carried out a descriptive qualitative exploratory study in Bangladesh, India and Nepal by conducting key informant interviews with policymakers (5), AT service providers (22) and mobility and hearing related AT service users (21). We used a directed content analysis approach guided by a seven-point AT service delivery process model to thematically analyse the existing processes for AT service delivery, from first contact through to follow-up and maintenance. AT service delivery processes are sub-optimal in all three countries, and improvements are needed. No common AT service delivery process was found, although there are common features. In general, it is easier for PWDs in India and Nepal to access AT than for those in Bangladesh, but all three countries are failing to live up to their commitments to uphold the human rights of PWDs. Although good elements of AT service delivery processes can be identified, the systems in all three countries are fragmented and generally weak. A more holistic approach of looking at the process of AT service delivery, from first contact right through to follow-up and device maintenance, with a single door service delivery system, free of cost at the point of service is recommended in these countries. Although we found significant weaknesses in AT delivery in all three countries, there are some good AT service delivery practices and opportunities for these countries to learn from one another. A systematic and stepwise approach to assessing current AT service delivery processes in the three countries – examining the delivery system as a whole, from initiation to repair and management – can help identify opportunities to improve the process for (prospective) AT users. A more coherent single door system of AT service delivery will increase the quality and efficiency of the fragmented AT service delivery practices in Bangladesh, India and Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper examines how contouring of a wheelchair seating base can help prevent pressure sores by distributing pressure over the buttocks. Contouring wheelchair cushioning is already done to some extent and has proved to be beneficial for pressure distribution. We researched the effect of contouring the seating base, and whether contouring the seating base affects effectiveness in pressure distribution and perceived discomfort. 13 healthy participants performed a within-subject experiment with three differently contoured seating bases. Perceived comfort and seating pressure were measured for each condition. Results indicate that a more contoured base is positive for both comfort and increased pressure distribution. Contoured seating bases can provide increased comfort and improved pressure distribution over flat seating bases. Future research should examine the effect of contouring on stability, as well as compare the effects of contoured seating bases and contoured cushions. We evaluated the comfort and pressure characteristics of three differently contoured hard seating bases for a wheelchair. The outcomes of the research shows that providing increased contour to seatings could be beneficial to reduce pressure peaks in the buttocks. Contour in the seating is conventionally created by shaping the cushions, this research shows the possibility of using a hard base underneath a cushion to create the desired contour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activities of daily living including oral care may be challenging after stroke. Some stroke survivors are not able to complete oral care independently and need assistance from healthcare professionals and care partners. Poor oral hygiene may impact stroke recovery and rehabilitation possibly incurring issues such as aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and social isolation. The objective of this paper is to outline practical ways to apply oral care technology in daily use for stroke survivors. We reviewed the literature on i) stroke-related impairments impacting oral care, ii) oral hygiene dental devices, and iii) technology for oral care education. Oral care activities involve integrated skills in the areas of motivation, energy, planning, body movement and sensation, and mental acuity and health. Post-stroke impairments such as fatigue, hemiparesis, and mental impairments may impact oral care activities. Technology may help survivors and caregivers overcome some barriers. Three types of technologies are available for facilitating post-stroke oral care: i) non-powered tools and adaptations; ii) powered oral care tools, and; iii) electronic aids to guide oral care activities. Particular choices should maximise patient safety and autonomy while ensuring accessibility and comfort during oral care tasks. The available device and technologies may help substantially with the accommodations needed for post-stroke oral care, improving the oral health of stroke survivors. Good oral health confers benefit to overall health and well-being and could enhance recovery and rehabilitation outcomes. Nonetheless, more research is necessary to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of technology in stroke contexts. Oral care may be challenging after stroke due to patient fatigue, hemiparesis, cognitive impairments, and other impaired body functions. Poor oral hygiene may impact stroke recovery and rehabilitation due to risk of aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and social isolation. Powered oral care tools, non-powered tools, and adaptations to non-powered tools are some of the technology available to help overcome post-stroke barriers for oral care. Computer programs and online resources for education and guidance for oral care activities may help improve recommendation uptake and compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of assistive technology use on the lives of people with disabilities has long been demonstrated in the literature. Despite the need for assistive technologies, and a wealth of innovative, afford-able, and accessible products, a low rate of assistive technology uptake is globally maintained. One of the reasons for this gap is related to data and knowledge formation and management. Low access to information and a lack of assessment services is evident. Fragmentation of data, inconsistency in assessment methodology and heterogeneity in the competence of assistive technology professionals, has led to a growing interest in the opportunities that data sciences, including AI, hold for the future of the assistive technology sector, as a supportive and constructive mechanism in any decision-making process. In this short paper, we seek to describe some of the principles that such an AI-based recommendation system should be built upon, using the Atvisor platform as a case study. Atvisor.ai is an AI-based digital platform that supports assistive technology assessments and the decision-making process. Our recommendations represent the aggregated insights from two pilots held in Israel, testing the platform in multiple environments and with different stakeholders. These recommendations include ensuring the continuum of care and providing a full user journey, incorporating shared decision making and self-assessment features, providing data personalisation and a holistic approach, building a market network infrastructure and designing the tool within a wider service delivery model design. Assessment and decision-making processes, crucial to optimal uptake, cab be leveraged by technology to become more accessible and personalised. Provides principles for the development of an AI-based recommendation system for assistive technology decision making. Promotes the use of artificial intelligence to support users and professionals in the assistive technology decision making process. Personalization of data regarding assistive technology, according to functional, holistic and client centered profiles of users, ensures optimal match and better use of assistive technology. Self-assessment and professional assessment components are important for enabling multiple access points to the assistive technology decision making process, based on the preferences and needs of users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of assistive technology (AT) for people with disabilities is well researched and prevalent in education. Growing numbers of students now self-identify as having mental health diagnoses and register for accommodations at post-secondary institutions. The apparent gap in the literature specifically relating to AT support in this population necessitated a more systematic search. This scoping review maps the literature regarding AT interventions to support young adults with mental health disabilities in post-secondary institutions such as universities and colleges. Four major databases were searched for topic keywords. Abstracts and final papers were screened against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, with seven studies identified as relevant. The reported common problems faced by students were academic, psychosocial and cognitive in nature and they affected day-to-day activities. AT identified loosely fit into the categories of note-taking alternatives, smartphones, multimedia presentations to support text material, alternate participation supports, graphic organizers, text-to-speech software, and other AT writing and visualization tools. Future research is needed on outcomes of AT implementation in this population and to explore the apparent lack of awareness of these supports by students and service providers, as evidenced by the limited research identified by this scoping review. There appears to be a gap in access to assistive technology (AT) to students with mental health disabilities, except when the student has concurrent physical or learning disabilities These students have additional barriers as they have little or no prior knowledge of AT, having not been previously identified in high school as needing or receiving AT AT rehabilitation would level the playing field for students with mental health disabilities, making education and student participation more accessible thus improving overall student experience [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vulnerable children refer to the special group of children with deviation in the process of children's psychological development and personality formation due to growth dilemmas. This may incur a series of serious social and family problems. The vulnerable children mainly cover the children suffering from children's psychological problems, such as childhood autism, autism, social anxiety and hypersensitivity, fear, depression, and PTSD arising from other factors. At present, the research results at home and abroad mainly focus on the psychological dynamic correlation investigation and solution discussion of a certain kind of difficult factor in the children's psychological development based on statistical data by the experimental methods, such as scale and model, and there is a blind spot in the humanistic orientation theory construction of psychological treatment for vulnerable children, causing the social reflection on children's psychological predicament from the humanistic perspective cannot be performed in related researches and going against searching for universal and integral theoretical paradigm for solving related problems. Sophisticated technologies for the observations have emerged increasingly for enabling the psychological features of vulnerable children through developmental cognitive neuroscience experiments. This paper introduces humanistic art therapy theory, focuses on the construction of a theoretical paradigm, and verifies its effectiveness based on the experimental results on the psychological development of vulnerable children, with an efficient performance. This study mainly refers to children with difficulty in social inclusion and psychological development. The results showed that two kinds of art therapy can obviously improve the psychological disorders of vulnerable children. The goal was to enhance self-cognition, strengthen emotional interaction, and implement positive motivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motor speech and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interventions are commonly used with children with cerebral palsy (CP) but there is limited literature comparing the effectiveness of these interventions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of intensive AAC, Rapid Syllable Transition Treatment (ReST), and blended intervention, a combination of motor-speech and AAC, on speech accuracy and sentence length and complexity. A single case experimental design across participants with repeated measurements across phases (ABACADA design) was used. Four participants aged 8–14 years with CP who used a speech-generating device (SGD) received three 6-week intervention blocks that included ReST, AAC, and blended intervention. Measures were taken during intervention and baseline phases and at maintenance two and four weeks after the last intervention phase. Participants were randomized to starting with either ReST or AAC with the blended intervention delivered last. All participants improved their speech accuracy and sentence length and complexity in speech and with their SGD in all three interventions. The data demonstrated overall immediacy of the effect with all interventions and retention of gains across the whole sequence of phases. The order of AAC or ReST interventions or the severity of CP did not impact the intervention gains. This study suggests that intensive AAC, a multi-modal approach, and ReST improve speech accuracy and sentence length and complexity in children with moderate CP, but all require further investigation. In this paper intensive AAC intervention with a speech generating device (SGD), ReST treatment and multimodal blended intervention were effective in improving speech accuracy and sentence length and complexity in both verbal speech and on communication with the SGD. ReST treatment has not been used with children with CP before. This study established a proof of concept for its effectiveness in children with CP. Further research is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The manual user-operated Arise Standing Wheelchair (SWC) is the end-result of multiple design iterations based on comments from user trials. The Arise SWC provides standing functionality, outdoor mobility, affordability, and customizability. This paper describes a user experience study of the Arise SWC's pre-commercial version. Thirty participants (N = 30, 25 Male, 5 Female) were recruited for the study. All the participants were people with spinal cord injury. The study was conducted over a period of six weeks (five participants per week) within the hospital premises under the supervision of clinical personnel. A 30 min interactive training session involved thirteen activities. During the trial period, the participants were trained to perform twenty-two activities to familiarize themselves with the SWC. The participants were also trained to perform four functional usage activities with the SWC. At the end of the study, participant responses to ten outcome measures were captured using a smiley-based Likert-scale questionnaire. A majority of the participants (93.3%) felt happy when they stood in the SWC. The majority participants (83.3%) preferred the Arise SWC over their current wheelchair. Also, 80% participants anticipated that they could get more work done at home using the standing function of the wheelchair. A one-time fitting and training ensured optimal effort for the SWC operation, correct posture, and comfortable user experience. With proper dissemination and awareness, it is believed that the Arise SWC will benefit eligible users and improve their quality of life. The Arise wheelchair provides standing functionality, outdoor mobility, affordability, and customizability. Study confirms that incorporating standing functionality can improve the quality of life for wheelchair users. The majority of users were happy, felt safe and expected to do more with the standing functionality. Study results support further testing in real world conditions beyond the hospital setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deficits in social verbal communication in individuals with Social Communication Disorder (SCD) is of concern and SCD in the human community is prevalent in large population throughout the globe. Deficits in verbal social communication are prevalent in a large population. This paper aimed to propose internet connected multi-system architecture which is capable to support verbal communication in a social environment for individuals with social communication deficits. Implementation methodology was included with corpus collection for specific communication, deep learning based machine training for intelligent communication, and implementation of the trained algorithm on internet connected electronic multiple social communication devices. The implemented system is smart enough to initiate and maintain two types of communication; the first type includes communication between multiple individuals on the remote location and the second type includes communication with the individual present in the physical listening range. The system was investigated in terms of its algorithmic parameters and found 97% to 100% in terms of training and testing accuracy with negligible mean squared error. Vocal-Friend analysed results based on audio-bot simulative conditions provide more than 91% accuracy, interaction rate and fallback rate. On the basis of the satisfaction analysis, above average results were noticed. In terms of technical implementations and satisfaction analysis, results found acceptable with above average score. Proposed framework is easy to use by caregivers with even having little knowledge. Support individual with deficit to learn social verbal communication skill to survive in society. Aiding parents, caregivers and professionals to understand the communication needs of individuals with communication deficits. Since technology is also grooming in the domain of rehabilitation, so this system could be used in various future applications such as social robots, social virtual assistants etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise is a safe, evidence-based approach for improving symptoms such as mobility impairment, cognitive dysfunction, and fatigue; however, persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) who use wheelchairs for mobility have been excluded from most research. This paper describes our approach for recruiting ten community advisor board (CAB) members and partnering with them on developing a novel home-based exercise training program for wheelchair users with MS. The exercise training program, which was developed based on initial qualitative research, includes a progressive exercise prescription, equipment, and one-on-one behavioural coaching based on Social Cognitive Theory. The CAB members convened in groups of five people for five meetings online, using virtual conference software. The CAB meetings each lasted approximately 1-hour and notes were transcribed into digital format for data analyses. Content analysis identified elements that aligned with meeting foci (i.e., prescription, equipment, coaching, and outcomes). Feedback was divided into categories to refine the program, specifically modifying, adding, or retaining content and/or activities. CAB member feedback was very positive and emphasised potential additions to the materials presented. The research team proposed implementing modifications based on the CAB member feedback such as adding wrist weights to the equipment options for completing resistance training exercises. The overall CAB feedback was invaluable for assessing the appropriateness of the proposed exercise training program before initiating feasibility testing. This report provides a model and guidance for researchers who seek community-engaged research approaches in creating products and interventions. Community advisory board participation was invaluable in creating and modifying a novel exercise training programmes for wheelchair users with multiple sclerosis (MS). The current study provides a framework for the creation of exercise interventions for subpopulations of persons with MS that may provide substantial rehabilitation benefits such as improved symptoms and quality of life. Health behaviour interventists targeting individuals with disabilities may consider the benefits of recruiting stakeholders from the community in creation of novel programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital technologies have a great potential to improve the quality of life of people with dementia. However, this group is usually not involved in their development and dissemination. A consumer-directed role in the delivery of digital technologies could allow this group to regain autonomy and certain independence. This article aims to conceptualise the components of the Consumer Direction theory in the context of digital technologies and people with dementia. A literature review was conducted. We searched for studies within the aforementioned context in five relevant databases, covering the years 2012–2020. Identified studies were screened and assessed for inclusion. The data were categorised using two-stage qualitative content analysis. Forty articles were included. The results provide definitions of the four components of the Consumer Direction theory in the context of this study. Namely, what it means for people with dementia to be (1) in control of technology use, (2) offered a variety of technological options, (3) informed and supported regarding the use and training of digital technologies, and (4) actively participating in systems design. These can lead to the empowerment of people with dementia. The four theoretical components of the Consumer Direction theory are conceptualised differently in the context of this study. By providing new definitions, this paper contributes to research and practice. We expect the definitions to be deployed by researchers, practitioners, and policymakers for the creation of a more consumer-directed delivery of digital technologies to people with dementia. Digital technologies have a great potential to improve the quality of life of people with dementia. A consumer-directed role in the delivery of digital technologies could empower people with dementia and give them the opportunity to take control over the offered services as well as maintain a degree of independence. The Consumer Direction theory and its components should be conceptualised differently in the context of digital technologies and people with dementia than in previous contexts that used the theory. The new definitions can be utilised by researchers, practitioners and policymakers for the creation of a more consumer-directed delivery of digital technologies to people with dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assistive Technology (AT) devices provide essential means of mobility, employment, communication, social engagement for older adults and people with different disabilities, if prescribed correctly to match users' needs and goals. Regardless of the setting or location, a successful AT service delivery model includes the multidisciplinary collaboration of the people with disabilities and the specialists who have knowledge and expertise in the design and application of AT. In Saudi Arabia, unfortunately, the availability of AT devices is mainly limited to basic mobility and daily living aids such as wheelchairs and seating systems, prosthetics and orthotics, communication devices, low-vision devices, and adapted transportation equipment. The aim of this perspective is to provide clinicians and healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia with a model for the optimisation of the provision of AT devices decision making regarding AT devices for people with disabilities by adhering to a user-centered team approach throughout the service delivery process The policy, human, activity, assistance, technology, and environment (PHAATE) model is used as a conceptual framework and guideline for this paper. The PHAATE components could serve as a guideline for a wide range of stakeholders in Saudi Arabia (e.g., researchers, product developers, practitioners, clinicians, third-party reimbursement entities, consumers, and educators) when developing service delivery systems. Despite the support and funding resources of AT devices by the Saudi government, there is still the needs to increase awareness and knowledge about AT application and services, as well as optimal service delivery models of AT devices. AT service delivery provision models such as PHAATE model may help clinicians and other medical professionals in Saudi Arabia to make informed decisions about the provision of AT device services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Learning disabilities or learning disorders are umbrella terms used for wide variety of learning problems like Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, and Dyspraxia. These disabilities are due to the neurological disorders which affects brain functions. Early diagnosis of these disabilities in kids from age 3 to 6 will help to start early medical treatments and get them back to the normal condition. we developed a software-based Learning Disability Evaluation Kit called YALU with computer Game Modules for kids targeting their learning disabilities. These Computer game-based modules of the YALU consist of different tasks for the different age levels to identify the symptoms of the disabilities mentioned above. The children's interaction results to each task of the game modules with the answers of the questioner about the children given by the parents will be evaluated with the threshold values given by a panel of consultant psychologist and paediatrician of the normal kids to identify the learning disabilities in kids aged 3–6 years. The result will be given to the respective parties and uploaded to the Website under the child's name. YALU has been tested using 50 students in age 3–5 in three preschools. The teachers have identified Fourteen students with some learning disability symptoms. Using YALU, twelve out of fourteen students had been clearly identified. Hence, the YALU Evaluation Kit to have an accuracy 85% in diagnosing the right disability. However, the accuracy could be increased with the accurate assessments of the parents about their kids. Learning disabilities are neurological disorders that affect the brain's ability to receive, process, store, respond to and communicate information; and there are four types (Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia) In this paper, we present the extracted computational techniques targeting the Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia and developed a software application (YALU Learning Disability Evaluation Kit) which consists of computer game modules for the kids for evaluation their learning disabilities. The developed game modules can screen the learning disabilities and these gamification modules (YALU) consists of tasks which are based on symptoms of the said disabilities. The outcomes of each module is evaluated these learning disabilities in kids age from 3 years to 6 years by analysing children's interactions to the each tasks, the child condition and then compare the result with the threshold values of the normal kids given by consultant psychologist and paediatrician. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explore methods used in peer-reviewed literature for obtaining self-expression of well-being information from children with severe motor and communication impairment (SMCI). A comprehensive search was conducted on 22 August 2019 through academic databases: CINAHL; Embase; MEDLINE; PsycINFO; InSpec; Compendex. Search strategies were informed by keywords under the following areas: (1) population: children with SMCI, (2) assessment methods: alternative to natural speech, paper and pencil report or standardized keyboard use (e.g., eye gaze) and (3) target information: well-being (e.g., quality of life). Studies were excluded if they focused on individuals over 25-years old, exclusively autism or typically developing children. Non-duplicate studies of 10,986 were screened; 49 studies met inclusion criteria. Most studies used high-tech methods of self-expression in a single context (n = 17). Familiar partners play a significant role in self-expression; 18 studies required a familiar partner for children with SMCI to self-express. Thirty-five studies involved children self-expressing to solely adults, in comparison to 14 studies which involved peers. Findings highlight the advancement of high-tech communication devices restricted to application in single contexts. Familiar partner knowledge of children with SMCI has the potential to be shared with others (e.g., respite care providers), enhancing both caregiver and child well-being. Future research that would enhance the literature could explore the assessment of emotional well-being for application in various contexts using multimodal methods. Opportunities for children with SMCI to express their emotional well-being can further influence the understanding and enhancement of participation, social connections, and experiences. Use of lower tech methods of self-expression to obtain information directly from children with severe motor and communication impairment (SMCI) remain more feasible in home and school contexts. By utilizing familiar partners' experiences and knowledge of the child, respite care providers, novel support workers, and others involved in the lives of children with SMCI can become further informed. Current high-tech methods for obtaining the emotional expressions of children with SMCI may benefit from incorporating multimodal approaches including lower tech methods, to be feasibly applied in real world contexts where well-being takes place. Further research on this topic is imperative to enable children with SMCI to self-express their emotional well-being which can enhance participation, activities, social connections, and experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate COPD patients' experience on the mastering of their illness during participation in a long-term interprofessional and cross-sectoral telerehabilitation programme called > C☺PD-Life≫. A phenomenological-hermeneutic study design with combined participant observations and individual interviews formed a continuous data generation among fifteen patients while they participated in the programme. Data underwent a three-levelled interpretation inspired by the theory of the French philosopher Paul Ricoeur. During participation in > C☺PD-Life≫ patients experienced an improvement in how to master their living with COPD. They felt invigorated by an interprofessional rehabilitation team to raise how to deal with physical, mental, social and relational challenges. Programme participation was experienced as surprisingly easy by the patients. The telerehabilitation solution > C☺PD-Life≫ provides benefits for COPD patients who report improved illness-mastering, attendance and outcome of rehabilitation, as well as enhanced physical and social activity. As an assistive technology intervention, > C☺PD-Life≫ appears to be a valuable addition to existing rehabilitation programmes. However, more knowledge is required to further understand the full-range capacity and impact of tele-based pulmonary rehabilitation. New models of rehabilitation to patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is imperative for the development of more suitable health care support to these patients. > C☺PD-Life≫ is a twenty-six-long telerehabilitation intervention program for COPD patients, delivered by an interdisciplinary team collaborating between hospital and the municipality health care service. This paper aims to explore COPD patients' experiences on the mastering of their illness while participating in > C☺PD-Life≫. Patients report improved illness-mastering, attendance, and outcome of rehabilitation, as well as enhanced physical and social activity by participating in the program. As an assistive technology solution, > C☺PD-Life≫ is shown to provide the potential to expand equally assessable support in improving independence, functioning, and well-being to COPD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article showcases the adaptability of existing mobility devices for the Algerian disabled population. It aims to develop a behavior model of disabled Algerian persons through (1) development of a theoretical model based on literature review and (2) improvement of this model by using local collected data from our developed questionnaire. The majority of existing mobility devices for disabled persons are adapted developed countries context. The Algerian context (people and environment) has its own specifications and needs. Researchers does not address the disabled people behavior modelling in Algeria, due to the unavailability of data and the difficulty of their collection. In order to overcome this problem and develop adapted mobility devices for this particular population, the deployment of a questionnaire to collect local data, becomes necessary. First, a behavior model is deduced from the literature review then a questionnaire is developed and deployed to complete the missing field of this model. The deployment questionnaire panel is composed of 260 persons including users, their families and staff working in disabled person's aid organization. The main result of this paper consist in a specific behavior model of Algerian disabled persons. This population are looking for reliable and smart wheelchair (97%) to be able to overcome their daily mobility difficulties due to the infrastructure and the global economic context. The proposed model can generate adapted wheelchair for Algerian context. The results of the questionnaire are an important step to understand disabilities in Algeria and developing countries. Development of a behavior model for the disabled persons displacement. Development and deployment of questionnaire for disabled persons in Algeria. Review of disabled person situation and existing wheelchair in Algeria. Identification of Algerian disabled persons requirement and demonstrate that are different from European one. Definition of recommendation set for the design of wheelchair adapted to Algerian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assistive technology can provide a key tool to enabling independence, greater inclusion and participation in society for individuals with chronic conditions. This potential is currently not always realized due to barriers to accessing and using assistive technology. This review aims to identify the common barriers to acquiring and using assistive technology for users with chronic conditions through a systematic meta-synthesis. This differs from other systematic reviews by applying a transdiagnostic approach to identify if barriers are common across chronic conditions. A systematic literature search of five scientific databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Medline) was conducted to identify relevant qualitative studies. The search was conducted in November 2019. For the identified articles, thematic content analysis was conducted and the methodological quality was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist for qualitative research. Forty papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Fifty-one descriptive themes grouped into six overarching analytical themes were identified from the studies. The analytical themes identified were: the design and function of the assistive technology, service provision, information and awareness, psychological barriers, support network and societal barriers. The barriers are interconnected and common across different health conditions. More involvement in personalized care for developing strategies, adaptation of home technologies and provision of assistive technology could overcome the service provision and design barriers to assistive technology. Accessible information and providing greater awareness will be important to overcoming information, psychological and societal barriers to assistive technology. Individuals with chronic conditions face complex barriers to acquiring and using assistive technology as a result of the devices themselves, their individual context, the healthcare context where assistive technology is provided and wider societal barriers. The provision of assistive technology needs to change away from the traditional medical model of the "expert" clinician and instead focus on more user involvement to deliver personalised care that utilises the users lived knowledge and experiences. Assistive technology provision should be considered alongside how to adapt everyday mainstream technology to meet user needs; the provision of devices should encourage creative problem solving rather then relying on pre-defined prescription lists of assistive technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel design for a leap motion wheelchair navigation system is proposed, and the suggested model is implemented on a prototype. The behaviour of the created prototype is closely observed during the different performance tests carried out, and the results are presented throughout this manuscript. In the prototype, a Leap Motion sensor is implemented to acquire navigation data through hand gestures of the users. This navigations system design is specifically implemented to facilitate wheelchair use for amputee users and stroke patients as it does not rely on the movement of the fingers. Through this design, wheelchair movement can be controlled through detection of finger, fist, palm or wrist (for amputees) movement by the leap motion sensor. Bluetooth connection is used as the navigation system's communication means, removing the need for constant internet connection and providing freedom of movement outside of internet-covered territory. Additionally, two Dynamixel motors are used as movement force, which yield optimal computational time and minimal delay. The performance of the designed prototype is tested by considering response time and speed resolution as evaluation metrics. Results suggest that the designed wheelchair will give movement independence to users who cannot use their fingers to control the movement of their wheelchairs, while reducing delay, being independent of internet connection, providing high resolution and minimising detection error. The promising results obtained from prototype testing suggest the possibility of real-life application of this wheelchair navigation system, which can greatly assist amputee users and rehabilitation patients. A novel wheelchair navigations system designed to facilitate amputee users, stroke patients and rehabilitation patients. The proposed system eliminates the reliance on finger movements, is gaze independent, and does not require voice or gesture control, creating much more freedom for users undergoing specific medical conditions or still under rehabilitation or treatment. Results demonstrate very low delay time in wheelchair command to action, allowing improved control for users and reducing the occurrence of control-related accidents. The designed wheelchair navigation system is independent of internet connection, allowing more freedom in range for wheelchair users compared to available cloud based models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess how cohabitation with a social robot for seven days night and day is perceived by elderly potential users and to suggest technological improvements for future home integration. Fifteen participants were invited to interact with Pepper®, 24 h a day and 7 days a week. Perceived utility assessment was achieved using a dedicated questionnaire. Usability assessment was carried out by measuring satisfaction with the human-robot interaction and listing malfunctions. Seventy-eight tasks out of 115 tasks were reported respectively as very high and high. On day 1, satisfaction was at its higher level with a mean of 6.8. On day 8, it maintained at 6.0 despite technical malfunctions and failures, listed with details in this paper. Acceptability was positive. Pepper was mainly considered as an assistant and a link with family and friends and never as an enemy or intruder. Pepper has proven to be potentially able to meet five needs: making the person's environment safe by alerting contact persons, reminding the user of health-related tasks, enabling "doubt removal", maintaining social relationships and following the user. Pepper is more than a "demonstration" device classified as level 6 of the nine-point Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale for the hard and software and level 5 in behavioural terms. Once the technological locks and malfunctions have been overcome, Pepper should be applicable in the home, allowing users to test it in a more familiar environment. Pepper, a humanoid robot, has been perceived as rich in potentialities that can help and secure a fragile person. Following this experience of cohabitation with a humanoid robot, the participants were unanimous in thinking that assistive robotics is the future. To be useful, the robot's people tracking function must inevitably be improved. Pepper, the first humanoid robot ever marketed, is more than just a "demonstration"device, classified at level 6 of Technological Readiness Levels (TRL) for supporting hardware and software and level 5 in terms of behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study sought to identify decisions speech-language pathologists (SLPs) make and their rationale for those decisions when designing an AAC display for a hypothetical school-aged child who was a beginning communicator. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) displays support communicative interactions for children who are unable to use spoken language to meet their communication needs. Children who are at the early stages of learning language, often termed beginning or emerging communicators, may rely heavily on the AAC display to support comprehension and expression. Thus, it is important for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to design a display that facilitates beginning communicators' communication development. This paper reports on the answers related to a specific case study presented in an online survey completed by 77 SLPs with experience in AAC. Data illustrated design decisions driven by child-specific characteristics and informed by research regarding type of layout, representation, and the importance of various design features. Suggestions for future research are provided, including identifying goals and communicative functions best supported by different types of displays, clinicians' challenges/successes growing a system with the child, and determining the importance of symbol arrangement and organisation in communicative tasks by AAC users. Identification of current practices reported by speech-language pathologists given a case study to develop and implement future research. A gap between research and practice suggests the need for better dissemination and application of research supporting the inclusion of people engaged in the event depicted in a visual scene display. Foundations for future research to provide guidance regarding best design of and communication goals supported by visual scene displays and grid-based displays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solution described in this paper allows wheelchair users with reduced mobility or physical disabilities to move independently throughout an aircraft and to board and disembark autonomously. A motorized aircraft seat was developed to substitute current aircraft aisle wheelchairs. The real-scale functional prototype was evaluated in a focus group. The results show that the proposed solution is considered superior to current solutions in nine of twenty requirements and neutral in one of them. There was low agreement among the focus group participants in ten requirements, even though the focus group discussion brought interesting reflections, including positive feedback, critics, and suggestions for further research and development in the field. The design concept consists of a motorized wheelchair that becomes the seat of the aircraft when anchored on a docking platform attached to the aircraft fuselage via a seat track. The manoeuvring is allowed by a rotating mechanism, which solves a critical function that is to enable wheelchair manoeuvring in the narrow aisles of aircraft. A parking assistant system aids the control of the motorized wheelchair. The main benefits of this solution are to reduce seat transfers during the flight experience and to provide more autonomy and comfort for passengers during flights. A motorized aircraft seat was developed to replace traditional aircraft aisle wheelchairs. A real-scale functional prototype was built, tested in an aircraft mockup, and evaluated in a focus group. The main benefits of the proposed solution are to reduce the number of chair transfers during the flight experience and to provide more autonomy for passengers. Additional benefits are to allow the passengers to experience less physical and emotional stresses, to enter the aircraft corridor looking ahead, and to sit in any aisle position in the aircraft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to identify structural problems and challenges for the delivery of digital technologies for ageing in place to elderly with dementia. To that end, I conducted a case study in a Swedish municipality. The results showed that elderly with dementia are not exploiting their full potential of receiving help in the form of technology, since the four conditions of the Consumer Direction (Control and Direct services – Variety of digital technologies for ageing in place options – Information and Support – Participation in systems design) were met to a very low degree. I propose that the municipality in question creates a proper knowledge-sharing platform so that occupational therapists are well informed about digital technologies for ageing in place, to allow them to provide accurate information and support to elderly with dementia, resulting in a possible increase in use of technology and subsequently support the empowerment goal of Consumer Direction. I also believe, according to the findings of this study, that the module of Information and Support should be treated as the most important condition for achieving increased Consumer Direction. Elderly with dementia and their relatives do not receive sufficient information about digital technologies for ageing in place (DTAP). There is not enough information regarding the available options and their use. This often denies elderly with dementia and their relatives the services they are entitled. Occupational therapists knowledge about DTAP affects the variety of options presented to elderly with dementia and their subsequent use. Once a person is diagnosed with dementia, physicians tend to suggest medicinal solutions, overlooking the dissemination of DTAP information. Thus hindering their early access to DTAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Canada, 100,000 people suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) every year. The prevalence of moderate to severe TBI is highest for young men, who will live an average of 50 years with this chronic condition associated with physical, emotional and cognitive deficits. Meal preparation, a complex activity with high safety risks, is one of the most significant activities impacted by TBI. Technology shows great promise to support their overall functioning, but no context-aware technology is available to support meal preparation for this population. The main goal of this study was to design and test a technology to support meal preparation with and for persons with severe TBI living in a supported-living residence. As part of a transdisciplinary technology project linking rehabilitation and informatics, COOK (Cognitive Orthosis for coOKing) was designed with and for future users and stakeholders with a user-centred design methodology. COOK was implemented in three participants' apartments, and its usability was evaluated at 1, 3 and 6 months post-implementation. COOK is a context-aware assistive technology consisting of two main systems: security and cognitive support system. After implementation of COOK, participants were able to resume safe preparation of meals independently. Usability testing showed good effectiveness and an acceptable level of satisfaction. COOK appears promising for rehabilitating clients with cognitive disabilities, improving safety in a home environment, and diminishing the need for human supervision. Future studies will need to explore how COOK can be adapted to a broader TBI population, other environments, and other clienteles. This paper presents a promising context-aware assistive technology for cognition designed with and for clients with severe brain injury to support their independence in meal preparation; COOK, (Cognitive Orthesis for coOKing) is the first cooking assistant in which evidence-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions have been translated into smart technological assistance, to support cognition and ensure safety in a real-life context; Its context-aware characteristic ensures that users receive the assistance they need at the right time and at the right moment. The long-term perspective regarding the use of COOK in clinical practice is promising as this technology has the potential of becoming an additional means of supporting the rehabilitation of people with cognitive impairments and becoming part of a comprehensive solution to help them live at home more independently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to review the vision substitution devices based on computer vision and Image processing. The focus of this article is on reviewing devices that require coding and sensors mechanism. Review of existing and commercially available vision assistive devices has been done. Comparison is based on feedback mechanics, adaptability in the surrounding environment, and functionality of devices. The study extended to advanced researches based on computer science and image processing. The integration of object detection and face recognition techniques in assistive devices for visually impaired in specific applications has been studied. Comparative analyses were presented. The findings from this study suggest that a few assistive devices are available commercially. The commercially available assistive devices influenced by the mindsets of visually impaired and economical benefits. A combination of several devices can be fruitful in eliminating the limitation of an available device. Ample researches have been done for navigation, communication, object detection, and object recognition to assist visual impaired. The primary results might be promising, but most studies are not tested in actual conditions. Various assistive devices for visually impaired are available commercially and several studies indicate further advancement. However, adaptability and trustworthiness are major issues. The primary reason behind this is the low-performance level of the device, feedback, and testing. The secondary reason is commercial availability and poor knowledge of the end-user. Advancement in computer science and image processing has paved the way to assist sensory impaired in doing various activities. Assistive technologies play a pivotal role in daily activities of visually impaired by assisting them for communication, and mobility. Assistive technologies can lead visually impaired to make them self-sustained. Very few research and devices related to assistive technology had reached the stage of testing and commercialization. Researchers can utilize the study in providing better assistive technology for the visually impaired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is the main cause of long-term disability and happens mostly in the older population. Stroke affected patients experience either of the cognitive, visual or motor losses and recovery requires time and patience as they have to do physical exercises every day and at times repetitively. There are various types of stroke rehabilitation exercises focussing on technological solutions that include therapies performed using games. Motion-based games are popular in encouraging participants to perform repetitive tasks without being getting bored. Therefore, in this study, we have explored studies that included the use of games for stroke rehabilitation to understand the design principles and characteristics of the games used for these purposes. A number of medical respositories were searched for relevant articles in a window of 2008-2018. 18 studies were chosen for the scoping review depending on the inclusion criteria, and design principles used in these studies are analysed and evaluated. We present main findings from our review concerning the attributes of existing games for stroke rehabilitation such as meaningful play, handling of failures, emphasising challenge, and the value of feedback. We conclude with a list of design recommendations that future serious game developers can consider while designing interfaces for stroke patients. This review exhibits that the usage of gaming technologies is a very effective interactive mechanism for stroke based rehabilitation. Further our review also shows that serious games provide an avenue and opportunity for customized and highly contextualized gameplay Our review also suggests that effective features to incorporate into serious games for rehabilitation includes; facilitating challenge and recovery from errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To review the rating scales used to evaluate usability and quality of mobile health applications, and to compare their purpose, content, and intended target users (i.e., patients, caregivers, or researchers). We conducted a systematic review of the literature in accordance with the PRISMA statement on Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, IEEE Explore databases, as well as a review of the grey literature to identify rating scales used to evaluate usability and quality of mobile health applications (m-health apps), between January 1, 2000 and July 31, 2018. Two researchers screened the titles and abstracts of articles that met inclusion criteria, and retrieved usability and quality rating scales from the articles. We identified 24 usability scales and 25 quality rating scales in 87 peer-reviewed articles. We identified only one quality rating scale designed for non-expert users (i.e., patients or caregivers). None of the studies used a theoretical framework for app evaluation to support the scales. The validity of existing quality rating scales is yet to be investigated. Existing usability and quality rating scales are targeted at professionals, not end users who are patients or caregivers. Rating scales that are usable by all end-users would make mobile health apps accessible and meaningful to consumers. The number of mobile health applications on app stores that can be used for rehabilitation is increasing. Most healthcare providers lack the training to identify m-health apps with high quality to be used in rehabilitation. This study has reviewed the current rating scales that can help clinicians and care providers rate the quality of m-health apps and identify the ones that are most appropriate for their practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]