대한물리치료과학회지 (Journal of Korean Physical Therapy Science)

  • 제30권4호
  • /
  • Pages.1-8
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  • 2023
  • /
  • 2733-6441(pISSN)
  • /
  • 2733-645X(eISSN)
대한물리치료과학회 (Korean Physical Therapy Science)
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Usability Test for Motion Tracking Gait Assistive Walker

  • Daon Hwang (Dept. of physical therapy. Korea National University of Transportation) ;
  • Ki Hun Cho (Dept. of physical therapy. Korea National University of Transportation)
  • 투고 : 2023.03.10
  • 심사 : 2023.05.25
  • 발행 : 2023.12.31
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초록

Background: This study evaluates the usability of the Motion-Tracking Gait Assistive Walker (MTGAW) designed for elderly individuals and those with disabilities, identifying areas for improvement through interviews with physical and occupational therapists. Design: A survey study involves the usability test for MTGAW. Methods: Usability evaluations were conducted with 37 physical therapists and occupational therapists. The process included explanation, product usage, satisfaction surveys, and interviews. A satisfaction survey covering 19 items across safety, maneuverability, usability, and management areas was administered. Individual interviews identified areas for improvement. Results: Overall, high satisfaction was reported across the four areas, but interviews highlighted the need for improvements, such as addressing discomfort due to slow speed and enhancing safety measures to prevent rear-end falls. Adjusting the walker's height and width to suit the user's physique was also suggested. Conclusion: MTGAW enhances walking support and hand movement freedom but needs refinement in speed control, fall prevention, and customization based on the user physique. Future efforts should focus on developing an improved MTGAW, considering recommendations from physical therapy experts, and conducting studies to analyze its clinical effectiveness for commercialization.

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과제정보

This research was supported by "Regional Innovation Strategy (RIS)" through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education (MOE) (2021RIS-001).

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