Memory and accurate processing brain rehabilitation for the elderly: LEGO robot and iPad case study

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research that applies cognitive therapies associated with memory and mathematical problem-solving in elderly people. The exercises are programmed in an iPad and can be performed both from the Tablet and in an interactive format with a LEGO robot. The system has been tested with 2 men and 7 women over the age of 65 who have slight physical and cognitive impairment. Evaluation with the SUS resulted in a mean of 48.45 with a standard deviation of 5.82. The score of overall satisfaction was 84.37 with a standard deviation of 18.6. Interaction with the touch screen caused some usability problems due to the elderly people's visual difficulties and clicking accuracy. Future versions will include visualization with more color contrast and less use of the keyboard.

A Systematic Review on Existing Measures for the Subjective Assessment of Rehabilitation and Assistive Robot Devices

“…Due to the nature of COPM, as described above, it cannot be adopted in all kinds of purpose rehabilitation or assistive devices. Four (4) studies [ 30 , 43 – 45 ] used the System Usability Scale (SUS) [ 46 ] which is a “quick and dirty” ten-item scale for administering after usability tests. However, this scale measures only basic issues of the device and does not take into account other very important issues, like the adaptability of the device, the feeling of safety, the social perception of the user when using the device, the individual dimensions of the device, if it fits well in the environment of the end user, and so forth.…”

Feasibility of a Functional Medicine Approach to Slowing Clinical Cognitive Decline in Patients over Age 55: A Multiple Case Study Report

“…Under the supervision of the psychologist on the research team, all patients received cliniciandelivered cognitive training using the Brain Booster [41] program by LearningRx. Although cognitive training programs vary in the skills targeted and delivery mechanism of training (for example, computer games that target memory and attention [42][43][44] versus comprehensive clinician-delivered cognitive training of multiple cognitive skills [45][46][47][48]), cognitive training is supported by a growing body of research suggesting it can improve brain plasticity, memory, quality of life, and outlook [45,[49][50][51]. Brain Booster targets multiple cognitive constructs including processing speed, attention, working memory, long-term memory, fluid reasoning, visual processing, and auditory processing.…”

The use of free non-dementia-specific Apps on iPad to conduct group communication exercises for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (Innovative Practice)

“…This is especially the case when it came to arousing attention and engaging individuals with dementia during daily clinical practice. Consistent with the report in Lopez-Samaniego, Garcia-Zapirain, and Mendez-Zorrilla (2014) for which mathematical and memorization exercises were completed using iPad for individuals with mild-moderate cognitive impairments in Spain, this ‘game playing’ (instead of standard rehabilitation) approach of conducting exercises and users’ accurate responses during the training promotes their overall interest, satisfaction level, and willingness to participate.…”