Smart Speakers as an Environmental Control Unit for Severe Motor Dependence: The Case of a Young Adult with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Rafael Tavares, Andreia Inácio, Helena Sousa and Jaime Ribeiro ()
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Rafael Tavares: Polytechnic Institute of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
Andreia Inácio: Instituto Politécnico de Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
Helena Sousa: Centro de Investigação em Reabilitação (CIR), Polytechnic Institute of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
Jaime Ribeiro: Assistive Technology and Occupational Performance Laboratory (aTOPlab), Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Instituto Politécnico de Leiria, 2414-016 Leiria, Portugal

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 6, 1-19

Abstract: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a disease that primarily affects males and causes a gradual loss of muscle strength. This results in a deterioration of motor skills and functional mobility, which can impact the performance of various occupations. Individuals with DMD often rely heavily on caregivers to assist with daily activities, which can lead to caregiver burden. A case study was conducted to explore and describe potential variations in the performance of a young adult diagnosed with DMD and his caregivers resulting from the integration of smart speakers (SS)-controlled Internet of Things (IoT) devices in the home environment. The study also examined the potential of SS as an environment control unit (ECU) and analysed variations in caregiver burden. Smart devices and SS were installed in the most frequently used spaces, namely, the bedroom and living room. The study employed WebQDA software to perform content analysis and Microsoft Excel to calculate the scores of the structured instruments. The implementation of the IoT-assisted environment compensated for previously physical tasks, resulting in a slight increase in independent performance and reduced demands on caregivers.

Keywords: DMD; assisted living; Internet of Things; caregiver burden; participation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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