The match between experienced difficulties in everyday activities after stroke and assistive technology for cognitive support

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Lindqvist, Eva^{a; b; *} | Borell, Lena^a

Affiliations: [a] Karolinska Institutet, NVS, Department of Occupational Therapy, Fack 23200, 141 83 Huddinge, Sweden | [b] The Municipality of Huddinge, Sweden

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author. E-mail: eva.k.lindqvist@ki.se.

Abstract: There is growing interest in computer-based assistive technology for people who experience difficulties related to impaired cognition. More knowledge is, however, needed regarding how this technology can provide support in the everyday activities in which people with cognitive impairment experience difficulties. The aim of this study was to identify in which everyday activities a specific type of computer-based and modifiable assistive technology could provide adequate support to persons who experienced difficulties related to cognition after a stroke. Interviews were conducted with six participants who had experienced a stroke, to identify difficulties related to impaired cognition in everyday activities. The difficulties identified were matched with the assistive technology, using a new tool developed for this study; The Assistive Technology support process. The assistive technology used in the study was judged to be able to initiate the performance of a specific task and to inform about upcoming events. With the use of sensors placed in the home, the support provided related to the completion of an already initiated task or to reminders required in a specific location or after specific actions. This type of support could be used more frequently in the near future and consequently it is necessary to establish what the assistive technology available can and cannot provide as well as what decisions to make before implementation. The Assistive Technology support process could be useful in retrieving this type of information. More research into the implementation of computer-based assistive technology is required.

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-2010-0294

Journal: Technology and Disability, vol. 22, no. 3, pp. 89-98, 2010