Authors: (including presenting author): :
Hou YY, Choi WY, Lam CM
Affiliation: :
Occupational Therapy Department, Rehabilitation Block, Tuen Mun Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Assistive Technology
Keyword 2: :
Adaptive Device
Keyword 3: :
Highly dependent individuals
Keyword 4: :
Autonomy and Quality of Life
Keyword 5: :
Occupational Therapy
Introduction: :
Patients with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) often face significant physical limitations, leading to high dependence level despite retaining cognitive function. This results in emotional distress and a profound loss of autonomy. Recent advancements in assistive technology (AT) have introduced innovative solutions to address these challenges. For instance, occupational therapist (OT) prescribing control switches and adopting 3D printing techniques have enabled highly dependent individuals to manipulate mobile gadgets for leisure and engagement. Additionally, these technologies facilitate control of essential equipment such as nursing beds, enhancing comfort and pressure relief. Studies have shown that the integration of these technologies can significantly improve quality of life and maintain a sense of independence for patients with MND and SCI.
Objectives: :
The objective of applying AT is to facilitate utilization of the remaining functional capabilities of highly dependent patients, thereby enhancing their sense of control and quality of life.
Methodology: :
Two hospitalized patients, with acute spinal cord infarction and MND respectively, were highly dependent in Activities of Daily Living (ADL). After comprehensive assessment, Bluetooth switches and head and voice control interfaces were prescribed based on their residual limb movements. They used switches to control the environment, such as pressing call bells to seek assistance and adjusting the height of nursing bed to facilitate repositioning and various ADL tasks. Meanwhile, they either used head and voice interfaces or switch to access various features of phones, such as sending family messages for interaction and expression of needs. They felt more connected and less anxious during prolonged hospitalization. Another MND patient from community has residual head control but limited hand function. To capitalize on the remaining function, OT adopted 3D printing to tailor-make a head-mounted pointer, allowing her to use WeChat to interact with family and watch videos for leisure. Throughout ongoing training with assistive devices, these patients gradually regained control and more engaged in desired activities. They found the devices useful and involved more in daily life with OT’s intervention program. This significantly enhanced their quality of life.
Result & Outcome: :
With ongoing efforts exploring the transformative impact of advanced AT on highly dependent patients, the success in clinical practice demonstrates how OT can bridge the gap between dependency and autonomy. Furthermore, this intervention can serve as a blueprint for the development of AT among highly dependent patients in NTWC cluster.
