Developing an intelligent activity-based client-centred training system with a user-centred approach

Abstract

Background: In neurorehabilitation, clinicians and managers are searching for new client-centred task-oriented applications which can be administered without extra costs and effort of therapists, and increase the client's motivation.

Objective: To develop and evaluate a prototype of an intelligent activity-based client-centred training (i-ACT) system based on Microsoft Kinect®.

Methods: Within an iterative user centred process, the i-ACT prototype was developed and necessary features were established for use in neurological settings. After the test trial with a high fidelity prototype, the value, usefulness, and credibility were evaluated.

Results: Seven therapists participated in focus groups and 54 persons with neurological problems participated in test trials. A prototype was established based on the user's experience. Results show that clients and therapists acknowledge the value and usefulness (clients 5.71/7; therapists 4.86/7), and credibility (clients 21.00/27; therapists 14.50/27) of i-ACT.

Conclusions: Therapists want to be able to record an endless range of movements and activities which enables individualised exercise programs for persons with disabilities. For therapists it is important that the system provides feedback about the quality of movement and not only results. In future work, clinical trials will be performed towards feasibility and effectiveness of i-ACT in neurorehabilitation and other rehabilitation domains.

Keywords: Client-centred; Kinect®; rehabilitation; task-oriented; technology.