Walking Support Research Articles

Robotic Services Acceptance in Smart Environments With Older Adults: User Satisfaction and Acceptability Study.

BackgroundIn Europe, the population of older people is increasing rapidly. Many older people prefer to remain in their homes but living alone could be a risk for their safety. In this context, robotics and other emerging technologies are increasingly proposed as potential solutions to this societal concern. However, one-third of all assistive technologies are abandoned within one year of use because the end users do not accept them.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to investigate the acceptance of the Robot-Era system, which provides robotic services to permit older people to remain in their homes.MethodsSix robotic services were tested by 35 older users. The experiments were conducted in three different environments: private home, condominium, and outdoor sites. The appearance questionnaire was developed to collect the users’ first impressions about the Robot-Era system, whereas the acceptance was evaluated through a questionnaire developed ad hoc for Robot-Era.ResultsA total of 45 older users were recruited. The people were grouped in two samples of 35 participants, according to their availability. Participants had a positive impression of Robot-Era robots, as reflected by the mean score of 73.04 (SD 11.80) for DORO’s (domestic robot) appearance, 76.85 (SD 12.01) for CORO (condominium robot), and 75.93 (SD 11.67) for ORO (outdoor robot). Men gave ORO’s appearance an overall score higher than women (P=.02). Moreover, participants younger than 75 years understood more readily the functionalities of Robot-Era robots compared to older people (P=.007 for DORO, P=.001 for CORO, and P=.046 for ORO). For the ad hoc questionnaire, the mean overall score was higher than 80 out of 100 points for all Robot-Era services. Older persons with a high educational level gave Robot-Era services a higher score than those with a low level of education (shopping: P=.04; garbage: P=.047; reminding: P=.04; indoor walking support: P=.006; outdoor walking support: P=.03). A higher score was given by male older adults for shopping (P=.02), indoor walking support (P=.02), and outdoor walking support (P=.03).ConclusionsBased on the feedback given by the end users, the Robot-Era system has the potential to be developed as a socially acceptable and believable provider of robotic services to facilitate older people to live independently in their homes.

Early shifts lead to big changes

Mammalian Evolution Mammals represent one of the most morphologically diverse taxonomic groups. One of the unique features underlying this diversity is variability of the spine, which facilitates everything from flexibility for speedy running and support for upright walking. Jones et al. studied a group ancestral to modern mammals—nonmammalian synapsids, or mammal-like reptiles. As forelimb function diversified, the spine developed distinct regions. These regions then differentiated further, leading to the highly varied mammalian forms we see today. Science , this issue p. [1249][1] [1]: /lookup/volpage/361/1249?iss=6408

Fossils reveal the complex evolutionary history of the mammalian regionalized spine.

A unique characteristic of mammals is a vertebral column with anatomically distinct regions, but when and how this trait evolved remains unknown. We reconstructed vertebral regions and their morphological disparity in the extinct forerunners of mammals, the nonmammalian synapsids, to elucidate the evolution of mammalian axial differentiation. Mapping patterns of regionalization and disparity (heterogeneity) across amniotes reveals that both traits increased during synapsid evolution. However, the onset of regionalization predates increased heterogeneity. On the basis of inferred homology patterns, we propose a "pectoral-first" hypothesis for region acquisition, whereby evolutionary shifts in forelimb function in nonmammalian therapsids drove increasing vertebral modularity prior to differentiation of the vertebral column for specialized functions in mammals.

Ankylosing spondylitis, chronic fatigue and depression improved after stromal vascular fraction treatment for osteoarthritis: a case report

BackgroundOsteoarthritis is a prevalent chronic disease that impacts quality of life and imposes a heavy economic burden. Despite this there is no confirmed treatment that could prevent progressive destruction of osteoarthritic joints. Mesenchymal stem cells with their regenerative and immunosuppressive properties have emerged as a potential therapy.Case presentationThis case study describes the impact of autologous adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction treatment on a 27-year-old Australian woman with osteoarthritis and multiple comorbidities of ankylosing spondylitis, chronic pain syndrome, and post-traumatic stress disorder as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. Following standardized stromal vascular fraction treatment protocols for osteoarthritis of her hips and knee, the functional status of her hips was measured by Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score at 3 months, 6 months, and 3 years.ConclusionsOur patient showed dramatic improvements to her quality of life and symptoms of osteoarthritis were reduced. Interestingly, along with improvements in her knee and hips her other comorbidities such as ankylosing spondylitis, depression, anxiety, and fatigue exhibited marked improvement. She ceased the use of a wheelchair and walking support and, with increased mobility, had gained independence. These findings are suggestive of the therapeutic effects of stromal vascular fraction.

Outcome of walking support machine training in gait rehabilitation for chronic stroke patients

Chronic stroke patients had restriction in mobility and ambulation due to motor weakness, abnormal muscle tone and balance impairment. The locomotor training using partial weight supported treadmill has been shown benefit in stroke patients, but cost is too high. Therefore, innovative walking support machine (CoWalk) ( Fig. 1 , Fig. 2 ) has been invented by our staffs to improve gait and balance. This study aimed to determine the effect of using CoWalk in gait performance of chronic stroke patients. Ten chronic stroke patients (≥ 6 months) with functional ambulation categories 1–3 participated in this study. The participants were received gait training using CoWalk for 15 minutes in addition with usual rehabilitation program twice a week, total 45 minutes for each session, for 8 weeks. The physical therapist adjusted percentage of body weight support according to patient's ability. Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and 10 Meter Walk Test (10MWT) were used to measure gait performance by pre-training and after the end of 8-weeks training program. Most of participants were male (70%) with mean age 67.8 ± 9.3 years. The result showed significantly improved in BBS (BBSpre- = 17.3 and post- = 23.0; P = 0.01)and 10MWT (pre- = 29.2 s and post- = 22.9 s; P = 0.005). No adverse event was reported during training. This study showed benefit of C0-Walk in addition with usual rehabilitation program. However, the further study should be considered to compare with the control group and investigate more gait parameters.

Precise Foot Positioning of Walking Robot for Paraplegic Patient Wearing Exoskeleton by Using Electrical Stimulation Feedback

The research and development of powered exoskeletons is expected to support the walking of paraplegic patients. At the current stage, exoskeletons do not allow patients to voluntarily control their gait, nor do they provide sensory feedback to compensate for the loss of lower-body sensation. This paper proposes a wearable walking control interface to achieve voluntary gait control, and an electrical stimulation method to inform the patients about their foot position for voluntary gait control. In this study, a walking robot that simulated a paraplegic patient wearing an exoskeleton was used to investigate the performance of the proposed interface and stimulation method. We confirmed that, by using the interface, the subjects were able to control the robot gait for a distance of 3 m. Moreover, the accuracy of the electrical stimulation feedback was confirmed to approximate the visual feedback achieved through the human eyes. The experimental results revealed that the proposed interface and electrical stimulation feedback could be applied to a walking support system for patients with complete paraplegia.

베이비부머의 연속보호체계형 은퇴주거단지 내 생활보조주거 및 요양시설의 서비스 및 프로그램에 대한 선호

The purpose of this study was to identify the services and programs of assisted living unit and nursing home for the healthy and comfortable aging of senior residents in the continuous care retirement communities (CCRCs). This study conducted a web-based online survey targeting about middle-income class baby-boomers living in the City of Seoul, 6 metropolitan cities and Gyeonygi-do, between 9th and 20th of February in 2017. A total of 398 valid responses were analyzed for identifying necessary services and programs. The most desirable services turned out to be meal services like therapeutic diet, healthcare services including emergency response system, and 24 hours nursing care and personal services such as, the housekeeping and laundry services and the transportation and escort services. Regarding the social and recreational programs, the most preferred programs turned out to be the walking support, gardening and reminiscence programs. It is further interesting to note that women were more interested in and also tended to be more demanding on the contents of the services and programs than men. The findings from this study should provide a guideline when offering services, programs, and activities in the future assisted living unit and nursing home of CCRCs in Korea.

Optimum distance for voice navigation in walking support system for visually impaired

Voice navigation with information and communication technologies allows the visually impaired (VI) to grasp the current situation promptly. While instruction prior to the action e.g. turning a corner, seems to be effective, the optimum lead distance remains unclear. This paper verifies experimentally the optimum lead distance to support VI while walking. In the experiment, each subject (normal vision) walked while wearing an eye mask to simulate VI, holding a white cane, and received voice guidance. After each trial, the subject scored the lead distance in terms of acceptability. 28 young healthy males/females participated. Results showed the highest score was for 3 m while the lowest was for 5 m. Distance range with score over 3 (average) was 2 to 4 m. No clear significant difference was observed in terms of subject height. As walking speed was around 0.55 m/s, 1 m was deemed insufficient. 5 m or more seemed to be too long as subjects failed to predict accurately how far they had moved. This experiment verified that VI voice navigation turn instructions are effective if given more than 1m and less than 4 m before the turning point.

Visual Data Analysis Methods Using OpenCV Programs to Evaluate Walking and Falling with a Japanese Walking Support System

Visual Data Analysis Methods Using OpenCV Programs to Evaluate Walking and Falling with a Japanese Walking Support System

Development of self powered walking support shoes for patients with diabetic neuropathy

Development of self powered walking support shoes for patients with diabetic neuropathy

Fundamental study on development of the walking support ankle-foot orthosis

Fundamental study on development of the walking support ankle-foot orthosis

Motion Analysis on Gait with Walking Support Device

Motion Analysis on Gait with Walking Support Device

Research on walking support method using cooperative motion of cane robot

Research on walking support method using cooperative motion of cane robot

Added Force-Based Methods Using Load Cells to Evaluate Walking and Tumbling with a Japanese Walking Support System

Added Force-Based Methods Using Load Cells to Evaluate Walking and Tumbling with a Japanese Walking Support System

Pneumatic walking support shoes using wearer's weight

Pneumatic walking support shoes using wearer's weight

Development of pneumatic walking support shoes using wearer’s weight

Development of pneumatic walking support shoes using wearer’s weight

Evaluation of Indoor Walking Support Device with Upper Rotation mechanism and Viscosity-changeable Break System

Evaluation of Indoor Walking Support Device with Upper Rotation mechanism and Viscosity-changeable Break System

Toronto TO360 Pilot Evaluation and the Case for Pedestrian Wayfinding ( breakout presentation )

Background Following other ‘legible city’ projects, the City of Toronto initiated the TO360 Wayfinding Strategy in support of walking as the connecting mode that enables sustainable transportation. A pilot scheme delivered in 2015 provided a baseline for evaluation in support of a business case for citywide roll-out. Description TO360 is comprehensive multimodal strategy for pedestrian, vehicular, cyclist and transit users. The pedestrian pilot consists of on-street signage and maps at transit shelters and street furniture. Signs are deployed to support the most legible routes connecting arrival points and destinations, but also reveal the offer of the area, promoting wandering and exploration. Maps incorporate features to support walking such as 5-min walking circle, heads-up orientation and landmark buildings. Outcomes The objective of the pilot is two-fold: test user understanding and physical qualities of products, and provide an evaluation baseline. Pre- and post-implementation surveys were undertaken 12 months apart to measure change. After the pilot, rating for users to help finding their way around increased from 61% to 89%; to help making informed choices about walking routes increased from 39% to 83%; and, to learn about new and interesting locations or attractions increased from 44% to 82%. Results are comparable to other cities, notably to Legible London which also run an evaluation three years after implementation that demonstrated that as the wayfinding system expands it delivers increased awareness and confidence to explore. Implications Based on the system life-cycle costs and benefits, the indicative benefit cost ratio for Toronto is estimated at 3.7:1. This means that for every dollar invested, nearly $4 is returned through transportation benefits such as pedestrian and auto journey time savings. The case for TO360 is further enhanced by other non-monetized benefits such as additional tax revenues from retail, tourism, reduction in emissions and health care costs. However, benefits in terms of footfall and visitor expenditure are harder to justify beyond downtown areas. A recommended implementation would be to combine high quality signage in dense areas with potential for walking with more cost-effective solutions such printed and digital maps across the city, creating a consistent pedestrian information fabric.

Universal Design for the Rural Walks of Life: Operationalizing Walkability in Bonnyville, Alberta, Canada ( breakout presentation )

Background Encouraging routine walking for active transportation and/or leisure are two simple and low-cost ways to incorporate physical activity into daily life. Public health researchers and practitioners recognize a need to improve community built environments to support local walkability. However, many principles and concepts emerging from a growing body of walkability literature focus on urban settings, and do not readily apply to small or rural communities, signaling a knowledge gap. Healthy community advocates have an opportunity to critically explore how strategies of promoting walkability in rural areas must be geographically, demographically, and culturally appropriate. Description of Program Universal Design principles were operationalized in the Bonnyville Community Walking Map to promote walking in Bonnyville, a rural municipality in Alberta, Canada. Local stakeholders prioritized barrier-free access to walking routes for older adults and others with low-mobility as the guiding principle for their rural walkability concept. Universal Design was selected as an appropriate framework for operationalization by examining local data collected through systematic street-level observations and a community photovoice study, and literature review of walkability in rural settings and specifically for older adults. Outcomes Rural walkability literature is limited, and conventional walkability research and practice focusing on urban built environments does not readily apply to the unique geography and walking concepts in rural areas. Moreover, walkability rationales that emphasis an obesity reduction frame potentially neglect the individual and population level benefits of developing more equitable supports for walking. Implications Our research is among the earliest developing Canadian insight into theoretical and empirical operationalization of walkability in rural communities. We argue that incorporating Universal Design principles into walkability research and practice will help enhance equity and promote transferability of constructs across geographies. Walkability interventions in both urban and rural settings should thus promote route access for vulnerable and/or low-mobility pedestrians. Conference attendees will be encouraged to share their own understanding and experiences of rural walkability and Universal Design in a discussion of how walkability might be geographically and demographically stratified.

시각필터 및 증강현실을 활용한 저시력 장애인의 실외 보행 지원

시각필터 및 증강현실을 활용한 저시력 장애인의 실외 보행 지원