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Mouthsticks - A Participatory Approach.
Waltraud Ernst1, Gerhard Nussbaum2, Veronika M Berger3
1Department of Women's Studies and Gender Research, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|September 7, 2017
Summary
Personalized mouthsticks, a vital assistive technology (AT), are being redeveloped. This research involved end-users and experts to create adaptable AT solutions for individuals with severe physical disabilities.
Area of Science:
- Assistive Technology
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Mouthsticks, a versatile assistive technology (AT), have seen a decline in popularity and production knowledge since the 1990s.
- Currently, adaptable and personalized mouthsticks are scarce in the market, limiting options for users with severe physical disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the lack of adaptable mouthsticks by developing a personalized version.
- To involve end-users and occupational therapists in the co-design process to ensure the AT meets user needs.
Main Methods:
- A participatory design approach was employed, involving end-users and occupational therapists.
- Data was collected through standardized questionnaires, group discussions, and a collaborative workshop with diverse stakeholders including IT-designers and polymer engineers.
Main Results:
- The study confirmed a significant need for personalized mouthsticks through user and expert input.
- The participatory approach facilitated the identification of requirements for an adaptable and user-centered assistive device.
Conclusions:
- The development of a personalized mouthstick is necessary to meet the needs of individuals with severe physical disabilities.
- Co-design involving end-users and multidisciplinary experts is crucial for creating effective and relevant assistive technology.
