Implementation of a home-based interactive training system for fall prevention: requirements and challenges

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Older adults require rehabilitation to enhance physical abilities, particularly for fall prevention.
• Current virtual reality and ambient-assistive technologies are costly and face development hurdles.
• A motivational interactive training system was developed for fall prevention and stroke rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report usability findings from a pilot field trial of a novel interactive training system.
• To identify and describe technological and organizational challenges encountered during system development and field testing.
• To provide recommendations for future field trials involving assistive technology and older adults.

Main Methods:

• Development of a motivational interactive training system.
• Conducting a pilot field trial to assess usability and user acceptance.
• Collecting data on physical abilities and quality of life.

Main Results:

• Usability results from the field trial are presented.
• Technological and organizational barriers during development and field trials were identified.
• Experiences and recommendations for overcoming these barriers are detailed.

Conclusions:

• The developed system aims to address the need for effective and accessible rehabilitation solutions for older adults.
• Addressing identified technological and organizational challenges is crucial for successful implementation of assistive technology.
• Lessons learned from this pilot study can inform future assistive technology development and deployment for older adults.