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Palmier C, Rigaud AS, Ogawa T, Wieching R, Dacunha S, Barbarossa F, Stara V, Bevilacqua R, Pino M. Identification of Ethical Issues and Practice Recommendations Regarding the Use of Robotic Coaching Solutions for Older Adults: Narrative Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e48126. [PMID: 38888953 PMCID: PMC11220435 DOI: 10.2196/48126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Technological advances in robotics, artificial intelligence, cognitive algorithms, and internet-based coaches have contributed to the development of devices capable of responding to some of the challenges resulting from demographic aging. Numerous studies have explored the use of robotic coaching solutions (RCSs) for supporting healthy behaviors in older adults and have shown their benefits regarding the quality of life and functional independence of older adults at home. However, the use of RCSs by individuals who are potentially vulnerable raises many ethical questions. Establishing an ethical framework to guide the development, use, and evaluation practices regarding RCSs for older adults seems highly pertinent. OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper was to highlight the ethical issues related to the use of RCSs for health care purposes among older adults and draft recommendations for researchers and health care professionals interested in using RCSs for older adults. METHODS We conducted a narrative review of the literature to identify publications including an analysis of the ethical dimension and recommendations regarding the use of RCSs for older adults. We used a qualitative analysis methodology inspired by a Health Technology Assessment model. We included all article types such as theoretical papers, research studies, and reviews dealing with ethical issues or recommendations for the implementation of these RCSs in a general population, particularly among older adults, in the health care sector and published after 2011 in either English or French. The review was performed between August and December 2021 using the PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Explore, SpringerLink, and PsycINFO databases. Selected publications were analyzed using the European Network of Health Technology Assessment Core Model (version 3.0) around 5 ethical topics: benefit-harm balance, autonomy, privacy, justice and equity, and legislation. RESULTS In the 25 publications analyzed, the most cited ethical concerns were the risk of accidents, lack of reliability, loss of control, risk of deception, risk of social isolation, data confidentiality, and liability in case of safety problems. Recommendations included collecting the opinion of target users, collecting their consent, and training professionals in the use of RCSs. Proper data management, anonymization, and encryption appeared to be essential to protect RCS users' personal data. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis supports the interest in using RCSs for older adults because of their potential contribution to individuals' quality of life and well-being. This analysis highlights many ethical issues linked to the use of RCSs for health-related goals. Future studies should consider the organizational consequences of the implementation of RCSs and the influence of cultural and socioeconomic specificities of the context of experimentation. We suggest implementing a scalable ethical and regulatory framework to accompany the development and implementation of RCSs for various aspects related to the technology, individual, or legal aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécilia Palmier
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Rigaud
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Toshimi Ogawa
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Rainer Wieching
- Institute for New Media & Information Systems, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Sébastien Dacunha
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Federico Barbarossa
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani, Ancona, Italy
| | - Vera Stara
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani, Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberta Bevilacqua
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani, Ancona, Italy
| | - Maribel Pino
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
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Möller J, Stara V, Amabili G, Barbarossa F, Riccardi GR, Martella C, Di Donna V, Palmier C, Ogawa T, Luc M, Wieching R, Maranesi E, Bevilacqua R. Toward Innovation in Healthcare: An Analysis of the Digital Behavior of Older People in Europe and Japan for the Introduction of a Technological Coaching System. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:143. [PMID: 38255032 PMCID: PMC10815043 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The increasing older population and demographic shifts highlight the need to understand the digital profiles of older adults, a pivotal factor in developing innovative technologies like the e-VITA virtual coach. This personalized coach provides recommendations for sustainable well-being in a smart home environment. (2) Methods: This study focuses on analyzing the characteristics of older individuals categorized as Internet users (onliners) and non-users (offliners). European Social Survey data from 2021 were utilized for European analysis, determining Internet usage based on frequency. Offliners are defined as users who never use the Internet, and onliners as those who use it, albeit with different frequencies. In Japan, data from the 9th International Comparative Survey on the Lives and Attitudes of the Elderly were employed, based on the responses of 1367 subjects, which defined onliners as individuals using communication devices and offliners as those not utilizing fax machines, cell phones, or the Internet. (3) Results: This paper presents a primary analysis of older end-user context and perspectives, outlining effective strategies for the diffusion of an active and healthy aging coaching system in the market and society. (4) Conclusions: the study emphasizes the importance of analyzing digital behavior in any user-centered design approach to ensure the system's acceptance after deployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Möller
- Diözesan-Caritasverband für das Erzbistum Köln e.V., D-50676 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Vera Stara
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Giulio Amabili
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Federico Barbarossa
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | | | - Clotilda Martella
- Clinical Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, IRCCS INRCA, 60121 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Valentina Di Donna
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, 63900 Fermo, Italy;
| | - Cecilia Palmier
- Service de Gériatrie 1&2, AP-HP, Hôpital Broca, 75013 Paris, France;
| | - Toshimi Ogawa
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Miyagi, Japan;
| | - Marine Luc
- AGE Platform Europe, 1150 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Rainer Wieching
- Institute for New Media and Information Systems, University Siegen, D-57072 Siegen, Germany;
| | - Elvira Maranesi
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Roberta Bevilacqua
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
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Amabili G, Maranesi E, Margaritini A, Benadduci M, Barbarossa F, Casaccia S, Nap HH, Bevilacqua R. Usability and Feasibility Assessment of a Social Assistive Robot for the Older People: Results from the GUARDIAN Project. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 11:20. [PMID: 38247896 PMCID: PMC10813054 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In Italy, many people aged over 65 cannot live independently, causing an overall decrease in their quality of life and a need for social and health care. Due to the lack of both formal and informal caregivers, technological solutions become of paramount importance in this scenario. This article describes the user-centered development of the GUARDIAN ecosystem, consisting of a social robot integrated with two mobile applications which aim to monitor, coach, and keep the older user company in order to prolong his/her independence at home. In particular, the advancements from the alpha to the beta prototype of the ecosystem are described, achieved through the feedback collected from 41 end users-older people and their carers-that have tested the system for 6 weeks. By enhancing human-robot interaction, a positive improvement in terms of usability and acceptability of the system was retrieved. However, to increase the perceived usefulness and the impact on older users' lives, it is necessary to make the entire system more customizable, and more capable in providing support for daily activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Amabili
- IRCCS INRCA Scientific Direction, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (A.M.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Elvira Maranesi
- IRCCS INRCA Scientific Direction, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (A.M.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Arianna Margaritini
- IRCCS INRCA Scientific Direction, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (A.M.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Marco Benadduci
- IRCCS INRCA Scientific Direction, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (A.M.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Federico Barbarossa
- IRCCS INRCA Scientific Direction, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (A.M.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Sara Casaccia
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Henk Herman Nap
- National Expertise Centre Long-Term Care, Vilans, 3527 GV Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Roberta Bevilacqua
- IRCCS INRCA Scientific Direction, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (G.A.); (A.M.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (R.B.)
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Hill KD, Meyer C, Burton E, Hunter SW, Suttanon P, Dawes H, Lee DCA. Examining gait aid use and user safety by older people with dementia: Perspectives of informal carers to inform practice. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:4279-4287. [PMID: 36444878 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2148302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine gait aid use and decision-making related to usage in people with dementia, and examine factors influencing (1) gait aid use or not; and (2) falls in past year. MATERIALS AND METHODS A survey of informal carers of older people with dementia in the community. Closed questions on gait aid use, falls, timing and sources of gait aid acquisition, and advice received to support use were used. Chi-squared tests (Fisher's Exact) compared: (1) gait aid users vs non-users and carers' report of (i) unsteadiness in walking/turning, (ii) dementia severity, (iii) falls in past year, and (2) fallers vs non-fallers and (i) timing of gait aid commencement relative to dementia diagnosis, (ii) whether health professional advice was received regarding use, and iii) regularity of use. RESULTS Forty-seven completed surveys, 63.8% of care recipients used a gait aid; 56.9% had ≥2 falls in past year; 66.7% commenced use after dementia diagnosis; 25% acquired their aids from non-health professionals; and 37% did not receive advice regarding use. Gait aid users and non-users differed on carer ratings of unsteadiness in walking/turning (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Carers reported important aspects regarding gait aid acquisition, safe gait aid use and benefits which warrant further investigation.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONIn our small sample, use of gait aids by people with dementia was related to the level of unsteadiness in walking and/or turning, and not associated with falling in the past year.People with dementia do not routinely receive professional advice about how to use gait aids, highlighting the potential value of maximizing health professional involvement in gait aid prescription and training.Deterioration in the ability of gait aid use after the diagnosis of dementia indicates a need for re-assessment or re-training of gait aid use over time.Clinical guidelines to facilitate decision-making regarding under what conditions gait aids are beneficial, what duration and aspects require instruction to ensure effective use by people with dementia are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith D Hill
- Rehabilitation Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University (Peninsula Campus), Frankston, Victoria, Australia
- National Centre for Healthy Ageing, Monash University and Peninsula Health, Frankston, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claudia Meyer
- Rehabilitation Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University (Peninsula Campus), Frankston, Victoria, Australia
- Bolton Clarke Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Communication and Participation, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Elissa Burton
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Susan W Hunter
- School of Physical Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Plaiwan Suttanon
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Helen Dawes
- Intersect@Exeter, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Den-Ching A Lee
- Rehabilitation Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University (Peninsula Campus), Frankston, Victoria, Australia
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Frankston, Australia
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Dol A, van Strien T, Velthuijsen H, van Gemert-Pijnen L, Bode C. Preferences for coaching strategies in a personalized virtual coach for emotional eaters: an explorative study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1260229. [PMID: 38034311 PMCID: PMC10687361 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1260229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Emotional eating is recognized as a potential contributor to weight gain. Emotional eaters often hide their problems because of feelings of shame about their behavior, making it challenging to provide them with the necessary support. The introduction of a virtual coach might offer a potential solution in assisting them. To find out whether emotional eaters are receptive to online personalized coaching, we presented emotional eaters with two essential proto-typical problem situations for emotional eaters: "experiencing cravings" and "after giving in to cravings," and asked them whether they preferred one of the three coaching strategies presented: Validating, Focus-on-Change and Dialectical. Methods An experimental vignette study (2 × 3 design) was carried out. The vignettes featured two distinct personas, each representing one of the two common problem scenarios experienced by emotional eaters, along with three distinct coaching strategies for each scenario. To identify potential predictors for recognition of problem situations, questionnaires on emotional eating (DEBQ), personality traits (Big-5), well-being (PANAS), and BMI were administrated. Results A total of 62% of the respondents identified themselves with "after giving in to cravings" and 47% with "experiencing cravings." BMI, emotional eating and emotional stability appeared to be predictors in recognizing both the problem situations. In "experiencing cravings," the participating women preferred Dialectical and the Validation coaching strategies. In the "after giving in to cravings" condition, they revealed a preference for the Dialectical and the Focus-on-Change coaching strategies. Conclusion Using vignettes allowed a less threatening way of bringing up sensitive topics for emotional eaters. The personas representing the problem situations were reasonably well recognized. To further enhance this recognition, it is important for the design and content of the personas to be even more closely related to the typical problem scenarios of emotional eaters, rather than focusing on physical characteristics or social backgrounds. This way, users may be less distracted by these factors. With the knowledge gained about the predictors that may influence recognition of the problem situations, design for coaching can be more customized. The participants represented individuals with high emotional eating levels, enhancing external validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aranka Dol
- Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
- Institute for Communication, Media & IT, Hanze University, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Tatjana van Strien
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Hugo Velthuijsen
- Institute for Communication, Media & IT, Hanze University, Groningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Christina Bode
- Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
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Stara V, Soraci L, Takano E, Kondo I, Möller J, Maranesi E, Luzi R, Riccardi GR, Browne R, Dacunha S, Palmier C, Wieching R, Ogawa T, Bevilacqua R. Intrinsic Capacity and Active and Healthy Aging Domains Supported by Personalized Digital Coaching: Survey Study Among Geriatricians in Europe and Japan on eHealth Opportunities for Older Adults. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e41035. [PMID: 37824183 PMCID: PMC10603559 DOI: 10.2196/41035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The worldwide aging trend requires conceptually new prevention, care, and innovative living solutions to support human-based care using smart technology, and this concerns the whole world. Enabling access to active and healthy aging through personalized digital coaching services like physical activity coaching, cognitive training, emotional well-being, and social connection for older adults in real life could offer valuable advantages to both individuals and societies. A starting point might be the analysis of the perspectives of different professionals (eg, geriatricians) on such technologies. The perspectives of experts in the sector may allow the individualization of areas of improvement of clinical interventions, supporting the positive perspective pointed out by the intrinsic capacity framework. OBJECTIVE The overall aim of this study was to explore the cross-national perspectives and experiences of different professionals in the field of intrinsic capacity, and how it can be supported by eHealth interventions. To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore geriatric care providers' perspectives about technology-based interventions to support intrinsic capacity. METHODS A survey involving 20 geriatricians or clinical experts in the fields of intrinsic capacity and active and healthy aging was conducted in Italy, France, Germany, and Japan between August and September 2021. RESULTS The qualitative findings pointed out relevant domains for eHealth interventions and provided examples for successful practices that support subjective well-being under the intrinsic capacity framework (the benefits offered by personalized interventions, especially by promoting health literacy but avoiding intrusiveness). Moreover, eHealth interventions could be used as a bridge that facilitates and enables social engagement; an instrument that facilitates communication between doctors and patients; and a tool to enrich the monitoring actions of medical staff. CONCLUSIONS There is an unexplored and significant role for such geriatric perspectives to help the development process and evaluate the evidence-based results on the effectiveness of technologies for older people. This is possible only when clinicians collaborate with data scientists, engineers, and developers in order to match the complex daily needs of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Stara
- Medical Direction, IRCCS, INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Luca Soraci
- Unit of Geriatric Medicine, IRCCS, INRCA, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Eiko Takano
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu City, Japan
| | - Izumi Kondo
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu City, Japan
| | - Johanna Möller
- Diocesan Caritas Association for the Archdiocese of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Ryan Browne
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Cecilia Palmier
- Service de gériatrie 1&2, AP-HP, Hôpital Broca, Paris, France
| | - Rainer Wieching
- Institute for New Media & Information Systems, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Toshimi Ogawa
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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Boesch M, Baty F, Rassouli F, Kowatsch T, Joerger M, Früh M, Brutsche MH. Non-pharmaceutical interventions to optimize cancer immunotherapy. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2255459. [PMID: 37791231 PMCID: PMC10543347 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2255459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The traditional picture of cancer patients as weak individuals requiring maximum rest and protection is beginning to dissolve. Too much focus on the medical side and one's own vulnerability and mortality might be counterproductive and not doing justice to the complexity of human nature. Unlike cytotoxic and lympho-depleting treatments, immune-engaging therapies strengthen the immune system and are typically less harmful for patients. Thus, cancer patients receiving checkpoint inhibitors are not viewed as being vulnerable per se, at least not in immunological and physical terms. This perspective article advocates a holistic approach to cancer immunotherapy, with an empowered patient in the center, focusing on personal resources and receiving domain-specific support from healthcare professionals. It summarizes recent evidence on non-pharmaceutical interventions to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade and improve quality of life. These interventions target behavioral factors such as diet, physical activity, stress management, circadian timing of checkpoint inhibitor infusion, and waiving unnecessary co-medication curtailing immunotherapy efficacy. Non-pharmaceutical interventions are universally accessible, broadly applicable, instantly actionable, scalable, and economically sustainable, creating value for all stakeholders involved. Most importantly, this holistic framework re-emphasizes the patient as a whole and harnesses the full potential of anticancer immunity and checkpoint blockade, potentially leading to survival benefits. Digital therapeutics are proposed to accompany the patients on their mission toward change in lifestyle-related behaviors for creating optimal conditions for treatment efficacy and personal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Florent Baty
- Lung Center, Cantonal Hospital St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Frank Rassouli
- Lung Center, Cantonal Hospital St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- School of Medicine, University of St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Technology, Management, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Markus Joerger
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Cantonal Hospital St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Martin Früh
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Cantonal Hospital St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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De Luca V, Bozzetto L, Giglio C, Tramontano G, De Simone G, Luciano A, Lucibelli L, Maffettone A, Riccio M, Romano G, Rossi E, Chiatti CJ, Berler A, Iaccarino G, Illario M, Annuzzi G. Clinical outcomes of a digitally supported approach for self-management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1219661. [PMID: 37663860 PMCID: PMC10469625 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1219661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Self-management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is challenging. Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose and healthy lifestyles are required to improve glycometabolic control, thus delaying diabetes complications, and reducing hospitalizations. Digital technologies can empower patients in their disease management promoting self-management and motivation to change behaviors. We report the results of an exploratory trial aimed at evaluating the metabolic outcomes of using digital solutions for T2D self-management developed in the ProEmpower project, a European Commission funded Pre-Commercial Procurement. Methods Two digital solutions, DM4All and DiaWatch, which were codesigned with providers, patients, and caregivers, enabled the collection of clinical parameters by the patient using a smartphone integrated with the medical devices (glucometer, sphygmomanometer, scale, smart watch for heart rate monitoring and step counter). Data were automatically sent to the shared care plan allowing professionals to monitor adherence to treatment, set goals, and communicate more effectively with patients. At baseline and after an average follow-up of 8 months, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, blood pressure, and blood lipids were measured in 100 T2D patients using the ProEmpower solutions across different diabetes centers in Campania Region, age 45-79 years, both genders, and compared with a Control cohort of T2D patients (n = 100) with similar clinical characteristics and followed for a comparable period of observation in the same centers. Results At baseline, the ProEmpower participants and the Control subjects were on average overweight, with a similar BMI in the two cohorts, and mean HbA1c was at acceptable levels (around 7.0%). After the 8 month exploratory trial, body weight, HbA1c, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and plasma and LDL-cholesterol significantly decreased in the ProEmpower participants compared to baseline (p < 0.05 for all). The changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and plasma and LDL-cholesterol were significantly different from those observed in the Control cohort (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusion This pilot study showed positive effects on metabolic outcomes relevant to cardiovascular risk in T2D of adopting digital telemedicine self-monitoring solutions based on automation of measurements and coaching on healthy lifestyles promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo De Luca
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento Assistenziale Integrato di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia, Andrologia e Nutrizione, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lutgarda Bozzetto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Clemente Giglio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tramontano
- Unità Operativa Semplice Ricerca e Sviluppo, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Ada Maffettone
- Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale dei Colli, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Ernesto Rossi
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale Benevento, Benevento, Italy
| | | | | | - Guido Iaccarino
- Dipartimento Assistenziale Integrato di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia, Andrologia e Nutrizione, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Illario
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento Assistenziale Integrato di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia, Andrologia e Nutrizione, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Annuzzi
- Dipartimento Assistenziale Integrato di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia, Andrologia e Nutrizione, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Huang G, Oteng SA. Gerontechnology for better elderly care and life quality: a systematic literature review. Eur J Ageing 2023; 20:27. [PMID: 37347277 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-023-00776-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Gerontechnology as multidisciplinary research has expanded in recent years due to its significant role in ensuring better care and improved quality of life for older adults and their caregivers. With a substantial increase in studies on reasons behind less inclination of older individuals to accept gerontechnology, barriers to its non-acceptance appear to be persistent. In addition, there is a dearth of research on the adoption of gerontechnology from the perspectives of social caregivers, given that caregivers bear a substantial burden in the form of chronic stress, which adversely affects their health and that of older people. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present a holistic perspective of older adults and their caregivers by systematically reviewing literature on gerontechnology acceptance. Adopting the preferred reported items for systematic and meta-analysis (PRISMA) framework, publications specifically on gerontechnology from 2002 to 2022 in Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed, that focused on older people (50 years and above) and caregivers (informal and formal) were reviewed. We critically evaluated 25 publications and synthesised them thematically. The results highlight that gerontechnology acceptance by older adults and their social caregivers is highly contingent on certain personal, physical, socio-cultural and technological indicators. However, this paper concludes that a generalised policy approach for gerontechnology and a better quality of life may be ineffective, considering that older adults and social caregivers constitute two heterogeneous groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genghua Huang
- School of Graduate Studies and Institute of Policy Studies, Lingnan University, 8 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Samuel Ampadu Oteng
- School of Graduate Studies, Lingnan University, 8 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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Santini S, Fabbietti P, Galassi F, Merizzi A, Kropf J, Hungerländer N, Stara V. The Impact of Digital Coaching Intervention for Improving Healthy Ageing Dimensions among Older Adults during Their Transition from Work to Retirement. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4034. [PMID: 36901045 PMCID: PMC10001821 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Retirement is a critical step in older adults' lives, so it is important to motivate them to stay physically active, mentally healthy, and socially connected in the transition from work to retirement, including through digital health coaching programs. This study aims to: evaluate the impact of a digital coaching intervention to enhance three healthy ageing dimensions, i.e., physical activity, mental well-being, and socialization of a group of adults near retirement; understand the users' experience; and identify the system strengths and weaknesses. This longitudinal mixed-methods study, carried out in 2021 in Italy and the Netherlands, enrolled 62 individuals. In the first 5 weeks of the trial, participants used a digital coach with the support of human coaches, and then they continued autonomously for another 5 weeks. The use of the digital coach improved the participants' physical activity, mental well-being and self-efficacy during the first period and only the physical activity in the second. An effective coaching system should be flexible and attractive. High levels of personalization remain the golden key to aligning the health program to the physical, cognitive and social status of the intended target, thus increasing the user-system interaction, usability, and acceptability, as well as enhancing adherence to the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Santini
- Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Aging, IRCCS INRCA-National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, 60124 Ancona, Italy
| | - Paolo Fabbietti
- Unit of Geriatric Pharmacoepidemiology and Biostatistics, IRCCS INRCA-National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, 60124 Ancona, Italy
| | - Flavia Galassi
- Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Aging, IRCCS INRCA-National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, 60124 Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessandra Merizzi
- Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Aging, IRCCS INRCA-National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, 60124 Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | - Vera Stara
- Model of Care and New Technologies, IRCCS INRCA-National Institute of Health and Science on Aging, 60124 Ancona, Italy
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Morrow E, Zidaru T, Ross F, Mason C, Patel KD, Ream M, Stockley R. Artificial intelligence technologies and compassion in healthcare: A systematic scoping review. Front Psychol 2023; 13:971044. [PMID: 36733854 PMCID: PMC9887144 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.971044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, together with the availability of big data in society, creates uncertainties about how these developments will affect healthcare systems worldwide. Compassion is essential for high-quality healthcare and research shows how prosocial caring behaviors benefit human health and societies. However, the possible association between AI technologies and compassion is under conceptualized and underexplored. Objectives The aim of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive depth and a balanced perspective of the emerging topic of AI technologies and compassion, to inform future research and practice. The review questions were: How is compassion discussed in relation to AI technologies in healthcare? How are AI technologies being used to enhance compassion in healthcare? What are the gaps in current knowledge and unexplored potential? What are the key areas where AI technologies could support compassion in healthcare? Materials and methods A systematic scoping review following five steps of Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Presentation of the scoping review conforms with PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). Eligibility criteria were defined according to 3 concept constructs (AI technologies, compassion, healthcare) developed from the literature and informed by medical subject headings (MeSH) and key words for the electronic searches. Sources of evidence were Web of Science and PubMed databases, articles published in English language 2011-2022. Articles were screened by title/abstract using inclusion/exclusion criteria. Data extracted (author, date of publication, type of article, aim/context of healthcare, key relevant findings, country) was charted using data tables. Thematic analysis used an inductive-deductive approach to generate code categories from the review questions and the data. A multidisciplinary team assessed themes for resonance and relevance to research and practice. Results Searches identified 3,124 articles. A total of 197 were included after screening. The number of articles has increased over 10 years (2011, n = 1 to 2021, n = 47 and from Jan-Aug 2022 n = 35 articles). Overarching themes related to the review questions were: (1) Developments and debates (7 themes) Concerns about AI ethics, healthcare jobs, and loss of empathy; Human-centered design of AI technologies for healthcare; Optimistic speculation AI technologies will address care gaps; Interrogation of what it means to be human and to care; Recognition of future potential for patient monitoring, virtual proximity, and access to healthcare; Calls for curricula development and healthcare professional education; Implementation of AI applications to enhance health and wellbeing of the healthcare workforce. (2) How AI technologies enhance compassion (10 themes) Empathetic awareness; Empathetic response and relational behavior; Communication skills; Health coaching; Therapeutic interventions; Moral development learning; Clinical knowledge and clinical assessment; Healthcare quality assessment; Therapeutic bond and therapeutic alliance; Providing health information and advice. (3) Gaps in knowledge (4 themes) Educational effectiveness of AI-assisted learning; Patient diversity and AI technologies; Implementation of AI technologies in education and practice settings; Safety and clinical effectiveness of AI technologies. (4) Key areas for development (3 themes) Enriching education, learning and clinical practice; Extending healing spaces; Enhancing healing relationships. Conclusion There is an association between AI technologies and compassion in healthcare and interest in this association has grown internationally over the last decade. In a range of healthcare contexts, AI technologies are being used to enhance empathetic awareness; empathetic response and relational behavior; communication skills; health coaching; therapeutic interventions; moral development learning; clinical knowledge and clinical assessment; healthcare quality assessment; therapeutic bond and therapeutic alliance; and to provide health information and advice. The findings inform a reconceptualization of compassion as a human-AI system of intelligent caring comprising six elements: (1) Awareness of suffering (e.g., pain, distress, risk, disadvantage); (2) Understanding the suffering (significance, context, rights, responsibilities etc.); (3) Connecting with the suffering (e.g., verbal, physical, signs and symbols); (4) Making a judgment about the suffering (the need to act); (5) Responding with an intention to alleviate the suffering; (6) Attention to the effect and outcomes of the response. These elements can operate at an individual (human or machine) and collective systems level (healthcare organizations or systems) as a cyclical system to alleviate different types of suffering. New and novel approaches to human-AI intelligent caring could enrich education, learning, and clinical practice; extend healing spaces; and enhance healing relationships. Implications In a complex adaptive system such as healthcare, human-AI intelligent caring will need to be implemented, not as an ideology, but through strategic choices, incentives, regulation, professional education, and training, as well as through joined up thinking about human-AI intelligent caring. Research funders can encourage research and development into the topic of AI technologies and compassion as a system of human-AI intelligent caring. Educators, technologists, and health professionals can inform themselves about the system of human-AI intelligent caring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Teodor Zidaru
- Department of Anthropology, London School of Economics and Political Sciences, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Ross
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Kingston University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cindy Mason
- Artificial Intelligence Researcher (Independent), Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | | | - Melissa Ream
- Kent Surrey Sussex Academic Health Science Network (AHSN) and the National AHSN Network Artificial Intelligence (AI) Initiative, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Rich Stockley
- Head of Research and Engagement, Surrey Heartlands Health and Care Partnership, Surrey, United Kingdom
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Li S, Cui G, Yin Y, Xu H. Associations between health literacy, digital skill, and eHealth literacy among older Chinese adults: A cross-sectional study. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231178431. [PMID: 37256010 PMCID: PMC10225956 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231178431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Digital divide in health-related technology use is a prominent issue for older adults. Improving eHealth literacy may be an important solution to this problem. This study aimed to explore the associations between health literacy, digital skills, and eHealth literacy among older Chinese adults. Methods A total of 2,144 older adults (mean age, 72.01 ± 6.96 years) from Jinan City, China participated in this study. The eHealth Literacy Scale was used to measure eHealth literacy in older adults. A linear regression model was used to analyze the associations among health literacy, digital skills, and eHealth literacy in older Chinese adults. Results The mean eHealth literacy score of the older adults was 17.56 ± 9.61. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and experience of Internet usage, the results of the linear regression showed that health literacy (B = 0.258, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.215-0.302, P< 0.001) and digital skills (B = 0.654, 95% CI = 0.587-0.720, P < 0.001) were positively associated with eHealth literacy. Sensitivity analyses revealed that this association remained robust. Conclusions The level of eHealth literacy in older Chinese adults is low. Health literacy and digital skills are associated with eHealth literacy in older adults. In the future, eHealth literacy intervention research should be considered from the perspective of health literacy and digital skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Li
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Service Management, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Guanghui Cui
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yongtian Yin
- School of Nursing, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huilan Xu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Service Management, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Gentile M, De Luca V, Patalano R, Laudisio D, Tramontano G, Lindner-Rabl S, Mercurio L, Salvatore E, Farrell J, Roller-Wirnsberger R, Kubitschke L, Triassi M, Colao A, Illario M. Innovative approaches to service integration addressing the unmet needs of irritable bowel syndrome patients and new approaches for the needs of IBS patients. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:998838. [DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.998838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common multifactorial condition that affects the large intestine and is characterized by chronic and relapsing abdominal pain and altered bowel habit. IBS is due to a combination of genetic, environmental and dietary factors. It's usually a lifelong problem very frustrating to live with and can have a big impact on quality of life, as single-agent therapy ra.ObjectiveTo analyze the approaches and solutions that address the social and health unmet needs of patients with IBS.DesignA quantitative-qualitative approach was adopted in the current study to identify and specify key digital solution and high impact user scenarios applied to IBS patients, through an adaptation of the “Blueprint on Digital Transformation in Health and Care in an Ageing Society” persona methodology.SettingsDigital health solutions bring the potential of supporting health interventions through mobile apps, wearable devices, telemedicine.PatientsA Survey was administered to a group of patients in an anonymous form, and no need for Medical Ethical Committee approval was identified.InterventionsThe theoretical elaboration IBS personas was developed through an interdisciplinary Focus Group, which also mapped the pathway for the patient's management.Main outcomeThree main needs were identified to be met to improve IBS patient's lifestyle: access to psychological support, mHealth solutions supporting diet and adapted physical activity, and home-based digital health support. mHealth intervention has been identified for diet adherence, physical exercise and psychological well-being. The process has been mapped and adapted to integrate the new solutions into the care pathway.LimitationFurther research is needed to evaluate how mHealth services enable IBS patients to manage their conditions and improve their quality of life.ConclusionThe person-centered approach was implemented through a multidisciplinary Focus group that enabled the identification of the need for a mHealth intervention.
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Baragash RS, Aldowah H, Ghazal S. Virtual and augmented reality applications to improve older adults’ quality of life: A systematic mapping review and future directions. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221132099. [PMCID: PMC9629585 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221132099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The use of virtual reality and augmented reality to improve older adults’ quality of life has rapidly increased in recent years. This systematic mapping review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of existing research that identifies and classifies current virtual reality and augmented reality applications that enhance the quality of life of older adults to increase the understanding of the impact of these technologies. Methods To reach this objective, a systematic mapping review was conducted of the studies published between 2009 and 2020 in major scientific databases, such as IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. A total of 57 studies were analyzed and classified into four main quality of life domains: physical, cognitive, psychological, and social well-being. Results The findings showed that virtual reality and augmented reality have found their places in many quality of life studies of older adults. Although virtual reality and augmented reality applications are notably growing in the physical and cognitive well-being domains in training and rehabilitation settings, they are still in the early stages of development in psychological and social well-being research as well as healthcare settings. Our findings also revealed that virtual reality games, particularly motion-based exergames, and 3D augmented reality systems are the most common virtual reality and augmented reality types among the reviewed studies. Moreover, balance and attention were the most prevalent physical and cognitive functions when using motion-based and immersive virtual reality exergames and augmented reality systems and games, respectively, while confidence and interaction were the most dominant psychological and social functions. Conclusion This mapping review provides a comprehensive overview of potential areas for further research in this field, thereby assisting researchers, technologists, and health practitioners in expanding this field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Sulaiman Baragash
- Centre for Instructional Technology and Multimedia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,Reem Sulaiman Baragash, Centre for Instructional Technology and Multimedia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
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| | - Hanan Aldowah
- Centre for Instructional Technology and Multimedia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Samar Ghazal
- Centre for Instructional Technology and Multimedia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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Amabili G, Cucchieri G, Margaritini A, Benadduci M, Barbarossa F, Luzi R, Riccardi GR, Pelliccioni G, Maranesi E, Bevilacqua R. Social Robotics and Dementia: Results from the eWare Project in Supporting Older People and Their Informal Caregivers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13334. [PMID: 36293915 PMCID: PMC9603054 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to describe the results collected with the Italian study conducted within eWare project, aimed at supporting the autonomy and health of the older people affected by dementia and their informal caregivers, through the use of an innovative system based on a social robot and a sensorized environmental infrastructure. Nine dyads of older participants with their caregivers were enrolled in testing the system for 6 months. The results show a positive impact of the system in supporting the achievement of personal goals of the participants, as well as in supporting the quality of life of the informal caregivers. Nevertheless, the impact of the system in reducing the caregivers' burden needs to be deeply investigated. This research highlights the potential of the eWare system but modifications will have to be made, especially on the interactivity capabilities, in order to meet the peculiar needs and wishes of older people with dementia and to favor the long-term use of the system.
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16
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Bevilacqua R, Soraci L, Stara V, Riccardi GR, Corsonello A, Pelliccioni G, Lattanzio F, Casaccia S, Möller J, Wieching R, Ogawa T, Watanabe S, Kokobun K, Kondo I, Takano E, Maranesi E. A systematic review of multidomain and lifestyle interventions to support the intrinsic capacity of the older population. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:929261. [PMID: 35911409 PMCID: PMC9335156 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.929261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The focus on intrinsic capacity (IC) could help clinicians to design interventions to improve the health of the older population. This review aims to map the current state of the art in the field of multi-domain interventions based on the IC framework, to allow health professionals in identifying personalized clinical interventions, oriented to empower the older people with a holistic and positive approach. Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted in July 2021 analyzing manuscripts and articles of the last 10.5 years from PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar and Elsevier databases. A total of 12 papers were included. Results The majority of successful interventions are based on a goal setting approach where the older people are involved in the definition of the strategy to follow to remain active and independent. None of the study have used the IC as a framework to design a clinical intervention. Conclusion To the best of our knowledge, no other reviews are reported in the literature regarding the IC. Our study offers several research directions, which may take the existing debates to the next level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Bevilacqua
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberta Bevilacqua,
| | - Luca Soraci
- Unit of Geriatric Medicine, IRCCS INRCA, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Vera Stara
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Corsonello
- Unit of Geriatric Medicine, IRCCS INRCA, Cosenza, Italy
- Unit of Geriatric Pharmacoepidemiology and Biostatistics, IRCCS INRCA, Cosenza, Italy
| | | | | | - Sara Casaccia
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Johanna Möller
- Department Elderly Care, Diocesan Caritas Association for the Archdiocese of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Rainer Wieching
- Universität Siegen, Wirtschaftsinformatik und Neue Medien, Siegen, Germany
| | - Toshimi Ogawa
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Keisuke Kokobun
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Izumi Kondo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Eiko Takano
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
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Bevilacqua R, Di Rosa M, Riccardi GR, Pelliccioni G, Lattanzio F, Felici E, Margaritini A, Amabili G, Maranesi E. Design and Development of a Scale for Evaluating the Acceptance of Social Robotics for Older People: The Robot Era Inventory. Front Neurorobot 2022; 16:883106. [PMID: 35874107 PMCID: PMC9302437 DOI: 10.3389/fnbot.2022.883106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionNowadays, several robots have been developed to provide not only companionship to older adults, but also to cooperate with them during health and lifestyle activities. Despite the undeniable wealth of socially assistive robots (SARs), there is an increasing need to customize the tools used for measuring their acceptance in real-life applications.MethodsWithin the Robot-Era project, a scale was developed to understand the degree of acceptance of the robotic platform. A preliminary test with 21 participants was performed to assess the statistical validity of the Robot-Era Inventory (REI) scales.ResultsBased on the criteria observed in the literature, 41 items were developed and grouped in different scales (perceived robot personality, human–robot interaction, perceived benefit, ease of use, and perceived usefulness). The reliability of the Robot-Era Inventory scale was analyzed with Cronbach's alpha, with a mean value of 0.79 (range = 0.61–0.91). Furthermore, the preliminary validity of this scale has been tested by using the correlation analysis with a gold standard, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model.DiscussionThe Robot-Era Inventory represents a useful tool that can be easily personalized and included in the assessment of any SARs that cooperate with older people in real environment applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Bevilacqua
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberta Bevilacqua
| | - Mirko Di Rosa
- Unit of Geriatric Pharmacoepidemiology, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Elisa Felici
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
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Bevilacqua R, Benadduci M, Bonfigli AR, Riccardi GR, Melone G, La Forgia A, Macchiarulo N, Rossetti L, Marzorati M, Rizzo G, Di Bitonto P, Potenza A, Fiorini L, Cortellessa Loizzo FG, La Viola C, Cavallo F, Leone A, Rescio G, Caroppo A, Manni A, Cesta A, Cortellessa G, Fracasso F, Orlandini A, Umbrico A, Rossi L, Maranesi E. Dancing With Parkinson's Disease: The SI-ROBOTICS Study Protocol. Front Public Health 2022; 9:780098. [PMID: 34993171 PMCID: PMC8724049 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.780098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most frequent causes of disability among older people, characterized by motor disorders, rigidity, and balance problems. Recently, dance has started to be considered an effective exercise for people with PD. In particular, Irish dancing, along with tango and different forms of modern dance, may be a valid strategy to motivate people with PD to perform physical activity. The present protocol aims to implement and evaluate a rehabilitation program based on a new system called “SI-ROBOTICS,” composed of multiple technological components, such as a social robotic platform embedded with an artificial vision setting, a dance-based game, environmental and wearable sensors, and an advanced AI reasoner module. Methods and Analysis: For this study, 20 patients with PD will be recruited. Sixteen therapy sessions of 50 min will be conducted (two training sessions per week, for 8 weeks), involving two patients at a time. Evaluation will be primarily focused on the acceptability of the SI-ROBOTICS system. Moreover, the analysis of the impact on the patients' functional status, gait, balance, fear of falling, cardio-respiratory performance, motor symptoms related to PD, and quality of life, will be considered as secondary outcomes. The trial will start in November 2021 and is expected to end by April 2022. Discussions: The study aims to propose and evaluate a new approach in PD rehabilitation, focused on the use of Irish dancing, together with a new technological system focused on helping the patient perform the dance steps and on collecting kinematic and performance parameters used both by the physiotherapist (for the evaluation and planning of the subsequent sessions) and by the system (to outline the levels of difficulty of the exercise). Ethics and Dissemination: The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the IRCCS INRCA. It was recorded in ClinicalTrials.gov on the number NCT05005208. The study findings will be used for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentations in scientific meetings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Giovanni Melone
- Innovation Lab, Innovation, Marketing and Technology, Exprivia S.p.A., Molfetta, Italy
| | - Angela La Forgia
- Innovation Lab, Innovation, Marketing and Technology, Exprivia S.p.A., Molfetta, Italy
| | - Nicola Macchiarulo
- Innovation Lab, Innovation, Marketing and Technology, Exprivia S.p.A., Molfetta, Italy
| | - Luca Rossetti
- Innovation Lab, Innovation, Marketing and Technology, Exprivia S.p.A., Molfetta, Italy
| | - Mauro Marzorati
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Tecnologie Biomediche, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanna Rizzo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Tecnologie Biomediche, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Laura Fiorini
- Dipartimento Ingegneria Industriale, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | | | - Carlo La Viola
- Dipartimento Ingegneria Industriale, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Firenze, Italy.,Istituto di BioRobotica, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pontedera, Italy
| | - Filippo Cavallo
- Dipartimento Ingegneria Industriale, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Firenze, Italy.,Istituto di BioRobotica, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pontedera, Italy
| | - Alessandro Leone
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto per la Microelettronica e i Microsistemi, Lecce, Italy
| | - Gabriele Rescio
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto per la Microelettronica e i Microsistemi, Lecce, Italy
| | - Andrea Caroppo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto per la Microelettronica e i Microsistemi, Lecce, Italy
| | - Andrea Manni
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto per la Microelettronica e i Microsistemi, Lecce, Italy
| | - Amedeo Cesta
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie della Cognizione, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Cortellessa
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie della Cognizione, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Fracasso
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie della Cognizione, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Orlandini
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie della Cognizione, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Umbrico
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie della Cognizione, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorena Rossi
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
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Maranesi E, Di Donna V, Pelliccioni G, Cameriere V, Casoni E, Baldoni R, Benadduci M, Rinaldi N, Fantechi L, Giammarchi C, Luzi R, Pelliccioni P, Di Rosa M, Scendoni P, Riccardi GR, Bevilacqua R. Acceptability and Preliminary Results of Technology-Assisted Balance Training in Parkinson's Disease. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052655. [PMID: 35270348 PMCID: PMC8910202 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is one of the most common causes of disability among older individuals. The advanced stages of PD are usually characterized by postural instability and, as a consequence, falls. Those are among the main factors that determine the quality of life, as well as the morbidity and mortality of a person with PD. In the field of PD rehabilitation, robotics is also rapidly gaining ground. As a primary aim, we evaluate the acceptability of the technology integrated intervention, using the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS), in order to analyze the attitude of the participants towards the Tymo® system. As a secondary outcome, we assess the result of the rehabilitation treatment integrated with the Tymo® system on several patient’s features. (2) Methods: We studied a population of 16 patients with Parkinson’s Disease. Each recruited subject completed 10 treatment sessions, organized as two training sessions per week, for 5 weeks. The intervention included 30 min of traditional therapy and 20 min of technological treatment with a robotic system. PIADS is composed of three subscales (Competence subscale, Adaptability subscale, Self-esteem subscale) ranging from −3 to +3, reflecting, respectively, a negative or positive feeling towards the device. (3) Results: The Competence subscale, measuring feelings of competence and usefulness, obtained a score of 1.24 (SD = 0.78). The score of Adaptability subscale, indicating a willingness to try out new things and to take risks, was 1.83 (SD = 0.65). Finally, the Self-esteem subscale, indicating feelings of emotional health and happiness, reached a score of 1.31 (SD = 0.72). Moreover, statistical analysis reveals a significant effect on balance performance after intervention. (4) Conclusions: This feasibility study represents a starting point in the use of technology in the rehabilitation pathway of patients affected by Parkinson’s Disease. In fact, our results suggest that a standard therapy combined with an innovative treatment using Tymo® may be accepted by PD patients, which may benefit especially from preserving balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Maranesi
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (M.B.); (C.G.); (R.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Valentina Di Donna
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, 63900 Fermo, Italy; (V.D.D.); (N.R.); (P.S.)
| | | | | | - Elisa Casoni
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, 60127 Ancona, Italy; (E.C.); (R.B.); (G.R.R.)
| | - Renato Baldoni
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, 60127 Ancona, Italy; (E.C.); (R.B.); (G.R.R.)
| | - Marco Benadduci
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (M.B.); (C.G.); (R.B.)
| | - Nadia Rinaldi
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, 63900 Fermo, Italy; (V.D.D.); (N.R.); (P.S.)
| | - Lorenzo Fantechi
- Clinical Unit of Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS INRCA, 60127 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Cinzia Giammarchi
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (M.B.); (C.G.); (R.B.)
| | - Riccardo Luzi
- Medical Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60127 Ancona, Italy;
| | | | - Mirko Di Rosa
- Unit of Geriatric Pharmacoepidemiology, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Pietro Scendoni
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, 63900 Fermo, Italy; (V.D.D.); (N.R.); (P.S.)
| | - Giovanni Renato Riccardi
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, 60127 Ancona, Italy; (E.C.); (R.B.); (G.R.R.)
| | - Roberta Bevilacqua
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy; (M.B.); (C.G.); (R.B.)
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Hurmuz MZ, Jansen-Kosterink SM, Beinema T, Fischer K, op den Akker H, Hermens HJ. Evaluation of a virtual coaching system eHealth intervention: A mixed methods observational cohort study in the Netherlands. Internet Interv 2022; 27:100501. [PMID: 35198411 PMCID: PMC8844700 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2022.100501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the rise in human life expectancy, the prevalence of chronic disease has increased significantly. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can decrease the risk of chronic disease. Virtual coaching systems can help older adults adopt a healthy lifestyle.AimThe primary objective of this study was to assess the use, user experience and potential health effects of a conversational agent-based eHealth platform (Council of Coaches) implemented in a real-world setting among older adults. METHODS An observational cohort study was conducted with older adults aged 55 years or older in the Netherlands. Participants were enrolled for 5-9 weeks during which they had access to Council of Coaches. They completed three questionnaires: pre-test, post-test, and at follow-up. After five weeks, an interview was conducted, and participants chose whether they wanted to use the eHealth intervention for another four weeks during the facultative phase. RESULTS The study population consisted of 51 older adults (70.6% female) with a mean age of 65.3 years (SD = 7.4). Of these, 94.1% started interacting with Council of Coaches, and most participants interacted once per week. During the facultative phase, 21 participants were still interacting with Council of Coaches. Minimal clinical important differences in quality of life were found among the study population after interacting with Council of Coaches. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that eHealth interventions with virtual coaching can be used among older adults. This may increase quality of life for older adults, and decrease their healthcare needs. Future research into such eHealth interventions should take into account the inclusion of sufficient personalised content and the use of a mixed methods study for assessing the eHealth intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian Z.M. Hurmuz
- Roessingh Research and Development, eHealth department, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, 7522, AH, Enschede, the Netherlands
- University of Twente, Biomedical Signal and Systems group, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522, NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
- Corresponding author at: Roessingh Research and Development, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, 7522, AH, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Stephanie M. Jansen-Kosterink
- Roessingh Research and Development, eHealth department, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, 7522, AH, Enschede, the Netherlands
- University of Twente, Biomedical Signal and Systems group, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522, NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Tessa Beinema
- Roessingh Research and Development, eHealth department, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, 7522, AH, Enschede, the Netherlands
- University of Twente, Biomedical Signal and Systems group, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522, NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Katrien Fischer
- VU University Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081, BT, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Harm op den Akker
- Roessingh Research and Development, eHealth department, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, 7522, AH, Enschede, the Netherlands
- University of Twente, Biomedical Signal and Systems group, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522, NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Hermie J. Hermens
- Roessingh Research and Development, eHealth department, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, 7522, AH, Enschede, the Netherlands
- University of Twente, Biomedical Signal and Systems group, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522, NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
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21
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Digital Health Interventions by Clinical Pharmacists: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19010532. [PMID: 35010791 PMCID: PMC8744767 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Integrating digital interventions in healthcare has gained increasing popularity among clinical pharmacists (CPs) due to advances in technology. The purpose of this study was to systematically review CP-led digital interventions to improve patients' health-related clinical outcomes. PubMed and the Cochrane Database were searched to select studies that had conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate clinical outcomes in adults following a CP-led digital intervention for the period from January 2005 to August 2021. A total of 19 studies were included in our analysis. In these 19 studies, the most commonly used digital intervention by CPs was telephone use (n = 15), followed by a web-based tool (n = 2) and a mobile app (n = 2). These interventions were provided to serve a wide range of purposes in patients' outcomes: change in lab values (e.g., blood pressure, HbA1c) (n = 23), reduction in health service use (n = 8), enhancing adherence (n = 6), improvement in drug-related outcomes (n = 6), increase in survival (n = 3), and reduction in health-related risk (e.g., CVD risk) (n = 2). Although the impacts of telephone-based interventions on patients' outcomes were decidedly mixed, web-based interventions and mobile apps exerted generally positive influences. To date, little research has investigated the cost-effectiveness of digital interventions. Future studies are warranted.
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22
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Sarriegi JK, Iraola AB, Álvarez Sánchez R, Graña M, Rebescher KM, Epelde G, Hopper L, Carroll J, Ianes PG, Gasperini B, Pilla F, Mattei W, Tessarolo F, Petsani D, Bamidis PD, Konstantinidis EI. COLAEVA: Visual Analytics and Data Mining Web-Based Tool for Virtual Coaching of Older Adult Populations. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 21:7991. [PMID: 34883995 PMCID: PMC8659844 DOI: 10.3390/s21237991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The global population is aging in an unprecedented manner and the challenges for improving the lives of older adults are currently both a strong priority in the political and healthcare arena. In this sense, preventive measures and telemedicine have the potential to play an important role in improving the number of healthy years older adults may experience and virtual coaching is a promising research area to support this process. This paper presents COLAEVA, an interactive web application for older adult population clustering and evolution analysis. Its objective is to support caregivers in the design, validation and refinement of coaching plans adapted to specific population groups. COLAEVA enables coaching caregivers to interactively group similar older adults based on preliminary assessment data, using AI features, and to evaluate the influence of coaching plans once the final assessment is carried out for a baseline comparison. To evaluate COLAEVA, a usability test was carried out with 9 test participants obtaining an average SUS score of 71.1. Moreover, COLAEVA is available online to use and explore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Kerexeta Sarriegi
- Vicomtech Foundation, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 20009 San Sebastián, Spain; (R.Á.S.); (K.M.R.); (G.E.)
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
- Computational Intelligence Group, Computer Science Faculty, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain;
| | - Andoni Beristain Iraola
- Vicomtech Foundation, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 20009 San Sebastián, Spain; (R.Á.S.); (K.M.R.); (G.E.)
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
- Computational Intelligence Group, Computer Science Faculty, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain;
| | - Roberto Álvarez Sánchez
- Vicomtech Foundation, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 20009 San Sebastián, Spain; (R.Á.S.); (K.M.R.); (G.E.)
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Manuel Graña
- Computational Intelligence Group, Computer Science Faculty, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain;
| | - Kristin May Rebescher
- Vicomtech Foundation, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 20009 San Sebastián, Spain; (R.Á.S.); (K.M.R.); (G.E.)
| | - Gorka Epelde
- Vicomtech Foundation, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), 20009 San Sebastián, Spain; (R.Á.S.); (K.M.R.); (G.E.)
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Louise Hopper
- School of Psychology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, D09 X984 Dublin, Ireland; (L.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Joanne Carroll
- School of Psychology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, D09 X984 Dublin, Ireland; (L.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Patrizia Gabriella Ianes
- Unità Operativa Riabilitazione Ospedaliera—Villa Rosa, Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari di Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy; (P.G.I.); (B.G.); (F.P.)
| | - Barbara Gasperini
- Unità Operativa Riabilitazione Ospedaliera—Villa Rosa, Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari di Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy; (P.G.I.); (B.G.); (F.P.)
| | - Francesco Pilla
- Unità Operativa Riabilitazione Ospedaliera—Villa Rosa, Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari di Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy; (P.G.I.); (B.G.); (F.P.)
| | - Walter Mattei
- Servizio Ingegneria Clinica, Azienda Provinciale per i Servizi Sanitari di Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy;
| | - Francesco Tessarolo
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy;
| | - Despoina Petsani
- Medical Physics and Digital Innovation Lab, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.P.); (P.D.B.); (E.I.K.)
| | - Panagiotis D. Bamidis
- Medical Physics and Digital Innovation Lab, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.P.); (P.D.B.); (E.I.K.)
| | - Evdokimos I. Konstantinidis
- Medical Physics and Digital Innovation Lab, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.P.); (P.D.B.); (E.I.K.)
- WITA SRL, 38123 Trento, Italy
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Digitally Enabled Health Service for the Integrated Management of Hypertension: A Participatory User-Centred Design Process. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312442. [PMID: 34886167 PMCID: PMC8656774 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article describes a user-centred approach taken by a group of five procurers to set specifications for the procurement of value-based research and development services for IT-supported integrated hypertension management. The approach considered the unmet needs of patients and health systems of the involved regions. The procurers established a framework for requirements and a solution design consisting of nine building blocks, divided into three domains: service delivery, devices and integration, and health care organisation. The approach included the development of questionnaires, capturing patients’ and professionals’ views on possible system functionalities, and a template collecting information about the organisation of healthcare, professionals involved and existing IT systems at the procurers’ premises. A total of 28 patients diagnosed with hypertension and 26 professionals were interviewed. The interviewees identified 98 functional requirements, grouped in the nine building blocks. A total of nine use cases and their corresponding process models were defined by the procurers’ working group. As result, a digitally enabled integrated approach to hypertension has been designed to allow citizens to learn how to prevent the development of hypertension and lead a healthy lifestyle, and to receive comprehensive, individualised treatment in close collaboration with healthcare professionals.
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Designing Acceptable Robots for Assisting Older Adults: A Pilot Study on the Willingness to Interact. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182010686. [PMID: 34682433 PMCID: PMC8536134 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this paper was to explore the psychosocial determinants that lead to acceptability and willingness to interact with a service robot, starting with an analysis of older users' behaviors toward the Robot-Era platform, in order to provide strategies for the promotion of social assistive robotics. A mixed-method approach was used to collect information on acceptability, usability, and human-robot interaction, by analyzing nonverbal behaviors, emotional expressions, and verbal communication. The study involved 35 older adults. Twenty-two were women and thirteen were men, aged 73.8 (±6) years old. Video interaction analysis was conducted to capture the users' gestures, statements, and expressions. A coded scheme was designed on the basis of the literature in the field. Percentages of time and frequency of the selected events are reported. The statements of the users were collected and analyzed. The results of the behavioral analysis reveal a largely positive attitude, inferred from nonverbal clues and nonverbal emotional expressions. The results highlight the need to provide robotic solutions that respect the tasks they offer to the users It is necessary to give older consumers dedicated training in technological literacy to guarantee proper, long-lasting, and successful use.
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User Requirements Analysis of an Embodied Conversational Agent for Coaching Older Adults to Choose Active and Healthy Ageing Behaviors during the Transition to Retirement: A Cross-National User Centered Design Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18189681. [PMID: 34574615 PMCID: PMC8468148 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Retirement is recognized as a factor influencing the ageing process. Today, virtual health coaching systems can play a pivotal role in supporting older adults’ active and healthy ageing. This study wants to answer two research questions: (1) What are the user requirements of a virtual coach (VC) based on an Embodied Conversational Agent (ECA) for motivating older adults in transition to retirement to adopt a healthy lifestyle? (2) How could a VC address the active and healthy ageing dimensions, even during COVID-19 times? Methods: Two-wave focus-groups with 60 end-users aged 55 and over and 27 follow-up telephone interviews were carried out in Austria, Italy and the Netherlands in 2019–2020. Qualitative data were analysed by way of framework analysis. Results: End-users suggest the VC should motivate older workers and retirees to practice physical activity, maintain social contacts and emotional well-being. The ECA should be reactive, customizable, expressive, sympathetic, not directive nor patronizing, with a pleasant and motivating language. The COVID-19 outbreak increased the users’ need for functions boosting community relationships and promoting emotional well-being. Conclusions: the VC can address the active and healthy ageing paradigm by increasing the chances of doing low-cost healthy activities at any time and in any place.
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Boumans R, van de Sande Y, Thill S, Bosse T. Voice-enabled Intelligent Virtual Agents for People with Amnesia: Systematic Review (Preprint). JMIR Aging 2021; 5:e32473. [PMID: 35468084 PMCID: PMC9086881 DOI: 10.2196/32473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Objective Methods Results Conclusions
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Boumans
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Yana van de Sande
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Serge Thill
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Tibor Bosse
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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