The Voice of the Consumer: A Survey of Veterans and Other Users of Assistive Technology

Abstract

This survey revealed several themes for future research and development. Advanced wheelchair design, smart device applications, human-machine interfaces, and assistive robotics and intelligent systems emerged as priorities. Survey results also demonstrated the importance for researchers to understand the effects of policy and cost on translational research and to be involved in educating both consumers and providers.

Assessment of Task Demand and Usability of a Virtual Reality-Based Rehabilitation Protocol for Combat Related Traumatic Brain Injury From the Perspective of Veterans Affairs Healthcare Providers: A Pilot Study

“…Usability outcomes were the highest among perceptions of the technology's "innovative" appeal, as well as if the provider would "recommend" the technology to a fellow healthcare provider, or a patient with a TBI. The outcomes align with previous literature, which find general excitement about innovative aspects of Internet of Things (IoT), and VR based protocols, particularly when treating the cognitive and behavioral pathologies in Veterans (Dicianno et al, 2018;Kirsch, 2019). Furthermore, the innovative utility has been shown to work among older adults before, specifically with recalling tasks and specific details (Dicianno et al, 2018;Kirsch, 2019).…”

“…The outcomes align with previous literature, which find general excitement about innovative aspects of Internet of Things (IoT), and VR based protocols, particularly when treating the cognitive and behavioral pathologies in Veterans (Dicianno et al, 2018;Kirsch, 2019). Furthermore, the innovative utility has been shown to work among older adults before, specifically with recalling tasks and specific details (Dicianno et al, 2018;Kirsch, 2019). Such protocols add a safer element to rehabilitation, while offering an entertaining distraction to their symptoms.…”

Predictive model of proficiency in powered mobility of children and young adults with motor impairments

“…5,28 It is important to continue to follow the emergence of access technologies such as motor control via brain-computer interfaces, voice and eye activation, and face recognition, which may prove to be more efficient, and intuitive modes for individuals with severe physical and cognitive disabilities. 29 In some studies, 13,17 practice time has been identified as an important factor in proficiency. Other studies, 24 including the results of the current study, did not find significant associations between practice time and proficiency.…”

“…It may be that children who require alternative access modes need different learning strategies or longer practice periods than currently provided because of sensorimotor integration factors and cognitive levels (perceiving and processing stimuli, motor planning, and appropriate reactions while moving in space) that impede their learning process . It is important to continue to follow the emergence of access technologies such as motor control via brain‐computer interfaces, voice and eye activation, and face recognition, which may prove to be more efficient, and intuitive modes for individuals with severe physical and cognitive disabilities …”

Clinical and Ergonomic Comparison Between a Robotic Assisted Transfer Device and a Mobile Floor Lift During Caregiver-Assisted Wheelchair Transfers

“…2,4,7 Both caregivers and care recipients prefer portable, powered technologies for transfers. 14,15 A robotic assisted transfer device (RATD) is one example. [16][17][18][19][20] The Strong Arm, an RATD attached to a power wheelchair, significantly lowered selfreported discomfort frequency and physical demand from caregivers compared with a mechanical floor lift (Fig.…”