Adapting Touch Pads To Enable Active Videogame Play For Individuals With A Mobility Limitation

Abstract

Active videogames (AVG) are an appealing form of physical activity for many adults; however, hardware for AVG typically lack accessibility and limits options for individuals with disabilities. Adapted AVGs have been shown to be more usable than off the shelf videogame controllers. PURPOSE: To evaluate the usability, enjoyment, and perceived exertion of an adapted touchpad (TPA) AVG controller among adults with a mobility limitation. METHODS: As part of a larger ongoing study assessing the usability of adapted videogame hardware, 9 adults with a limitation (post-stroke, spinal cord injury, amputation), 38 to 73 years of age, played 4 videogames for 5 min each by moving, leaning, and reaching for a series of (TPA) placed around them. After each videogame, participants reported their enjoyment using a visual analog scale (0 to 100 mm) and physical exertion using the OMNI 0 to 10 perceived exertion scale. The usability of the TPA system was assessed by having participants complete a System Usability Scale (SUS) after gameplay. The SUS scores were computed according to the scale’s rubric with a score of >68 considered above average. At the end of each visit, participants were interviewed, and members of the research team recorded their own observations for future revision of the system. Quantitative data are reported as mean (SD). RESULTS: All participants were able to successfully play the 4 videogames. Six participants (n = 6) played seated in a chair, 1 seated in their wheelchair, and 2 standing. The participants reported above average usability for the TPA with an SUS of 71 ± 25. Participants reported moderate enjoyment (60 ± 30 mm) and perceived exertion of moderate intensity (4.8 ± 2.3). The participants considered the TPA as “something new to keep alert”, “a lot of fun”, and “entertaining”; however, the researchers discovered several areas of improvement for future TPA iterations. CONCLUSION: Adults with mobility limitations were able to use the early prototype TPA system. Participants reported above average usability, moderate enjoyment, and perceived exertion of the TPA system. The TPA will be revised based on participant input and researcher observation. Supported by NIDILIRR RERC 90REGE0002