Beyond Motor Impairment: Empowering Functional Performance With Robotics
Vy Nguyễn1, Maya Cakmak2, Wendy A Rogers3
1Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA.
OTJR : Occupation, Participation and Health
|May 21, 2025
Summary
Assistive robots like the Stretch robot can significantly improve daily activities for individuals with quadriplegia. This study shows enhanced functional performance and reduced caregiver needs, promoting independent living.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Assistive Technology
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Growing demand for assistive robots to support independent living for individuals with physical disabilities.
- Limited commercial accessibility of such robots for home use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of the Stretch robot on the functional performance of everyday activities for an individual with quadriplegia.
- To assess improvements in daily task performance and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Employed a participatory design approach with single-subject volunteer sampling.
- Utilized point-in-time evaluations including the Stroke Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QOL) and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS).
- Conducted pre- and post-intervention measures using the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS) for personalized goal assessment.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant improvements in GAS scores were observed for grooming, self-feeding, social participation, and meal planning.
- Achieved a T-scale score of 74.43, indicating substantial goal attainment.
- Demonstrated enhanced functional performance in daily activities and a reduction in care partner assistance.
Conclusions:
- The Stretch robot effectively improved functional performance in daily activities for an individual with quadriplegia.
- The use of assistive robotics positively impacted the user's experience and reduced reliance on care partners.
- This study highlights the potential of assistive robots in promoting independence and enhancing the quality of life for people with severe physical disabilities.
