1
|
Contrada M, Scarfone F, Iozzi A, Carozzo S, Vatrano M, Nicoletta MG, Nudo G, Quintieri M, Tonin P, Cerasa A. Combining computer-based rehabilitative approach with tDCS for recovering of aphasia: Implications from a single case study. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e8928. [PMID: 38799514 PMCID: PMC11111603 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.8928] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
We present a case of a single left hemisphere temporal-parietal stroke with subacute global aphasia and severe verbal apraxia and moderate dysphagia. The patient underwent a combined transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and language stimulation with Virtual Reality Rehabilitation System (VRRS). Patient was treated in a 1-h session, for 5 days a week, for 4 consecutive weeks. After treatment, evident improvements in the comprehension of oral and written language, swallowing abilities, and caregiver burden were detected. Power spectrum analysis of EEG data revealed significant enhancements of θ, α, and β waves from baseline to follow-up. These preliminary results seem to confirm the reliability of the tDCS translational application in conjunction with computer-based cognitive treatment for language disorders in a patient with stroke-induced aphasia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Antonio Cerasa
- S. Anna InstituteCrotoneItaly
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB)National Research Council of Italy (CNR)MessinaItaly
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Health Science and NutritionUniversity of CalabriaRendeItaly
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Obayashi K, Kodate N, Ishii Y, Masuyama S. Assistive technologies and aging in place for people with dementia and disabilities: a proof-of-concept study with in-home passive remote monitoring with interactive communication functions. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2023:1-14. [PMID: 38143315 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2023.2287148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Can assistive technologies (ATs) support aging in place for people with dementia and disability? In seeking to go beyond the persistent institutional care delivery paradigm, this proof-of-concept study tested the feasibility of home care delivery using sensors and remote communication devices. This article reports the collaborative efforts among care professionals, care recipients and family caregivers in their private home environment and the impact of in-home passive remote monitoring (PRM) system on the users. The purpose of this study was to investigate the usability and impact of a PRM system combining in-house passive remote monitoring and an interactive communication function. METHODS In order to realize AT-supported, person-centered aging in place, a new care delivery model was designed, developed and tested for the duration of 12 weeks. The study was conducted with 5 older people (1 with severe disability and 4 with dementia), their primary family carers with 15 care professionals as users. RESULTS The findings indicate that there were some technical issues. However, the overall assessment of the system performance was positive, and the users expressed favorable views regarding its preventive and interactive nature. The importance of team-based care delivery, adjusted to fit the PRM equipment, was also highlighted. Faced with the challenge of meeting the increasing demand for person-centered care with limited resources, there will be a greater need for better integration of improved ATs. The study indicates ATs' potential for enhancing the quality of life for those involved in caregiving, while stressing the significance of stakeholders' engagement, skills and teamwork.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThis proof-of-concept study tested the feasibility of a home care delivery system using sensors and remote communication device for those with dementia and disabilities.A home care delivery system was successfully created for 12 weeks by collaborative efforts among care professionals, care recipients and family caregivers in their private home environment.The introduction of in-home passive remote monitoring system increased the possibility of the older adults being able to live independently, and enabled rehabilitation at home.The users had favourable views regarding the system's preventive and interactive nature and highlighted a greater need for better integration of improved assistive technology in long-term care and rehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuko Obayashi
- Faculty of Healthcare Management, Nihon Fukushi University, Mihama, Aichi, Japan
- Social Welfare Corporation Tokyo Seishin-kai, Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Universal Accessibility & Ageing Research Centre, Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naonori Kodate
- Universal Accessibility & Ageing Research Centre, Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Public Policy Research Center, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
- Fondation France Japon, L'École des hautes études en sciences sociales, Paris, France
- Institute for Future Initiatives, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Ishii
- Universal Accessibility & Ageing Research Centre, Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeru Masuyama
- Universal Accessibility & Ageing Research Centre, Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Traveler's Medical Center, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Stasolla F, Passaro A, Di Gioia M, Curcio E, Zullo A. Combined extended reality and reinforcement learning to promote healthcare and reduce social anxiety in fragile X syndrome: a new assessment tool and a rehabilitative strategy. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1273117. [PMID: 38179497 PMCID: PMC10765535 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1273117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Passaro
- University “Giustino Fortunato” of Benevento, Benevento, Italy
| | | | - Enza Curcio
- University “Giustino Fortunato” of Benevento, Benevento, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Stasolla F, Bernini S, Bottiroli S, Koumpouros Y, Wadhera T, Akbar K. Editorial: The integration of the technology in clinical settings among neurological populations. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1145982. [PMID: 37251074 PMCID: PMC10210143 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1145982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Bernini
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Bottiroli
- Giustino Fortunato University of Benevento, Benevento, Italy
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Yiannis Koumpouros
- Department of Public and Community Health, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Tanu Wadhera
- Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIITU) Una, Una, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Khalida Akbar
- Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lu M, Crooks RE, Pricop DF, Cox E, Anghelescu B, Hamilton M, Martino D, Bruno V, Josephson CB, Patten S, Smith EE, Roach P. Patient experiences of virtual care across specialist neuroscience and psychiatry clinics related to the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Calgary, Alberta. HEALTH AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 13:523-533. [PMID: 37303978 PMCID: PMC10152010 DOI: 10.1007/s12553-023-00754-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The emergence of the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has led to public health restrictions and a shift towards virtual care and telehealth. The aim of this study was to explore barriers and facilitators of virtual care from the perspective of neurological and psychiatric patients. Methods One-on-one interviews were conducted remotely using telephone and online video teleconferencing. There was a total of 57 participants, and a thematic content analysis was conducted using NVivo software. Results The two main themes were (1) virtual health service delivery and (2) virtual physician/patient interaction, with subthemes around how virtual care improved accessibility of care for patients and improved patient-centered care; how privacy and technical issues impact patients using virtual care; and the need for relationality and connection between health care providers and patients while using virtual care. Conclusions This study showed that virtual care can increase accessibility and efficiency for patients and providers, indicating its potential for ongoing use in the delivery of clinical care. Virtual care was found to be an acceptable mode of healthcare delivery from the perspective of patients; however, there is a continued need for relationship-building between care providers and patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Lu
- Department of Family Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, T2N 4N1 AB Canada
| | - Rachel E. Crooks
- Department of Family Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, T2N 4N1 AB Canada
| | - Diana F. Pricop
- Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 1403 - 29 Street NW, Calgary, T2N 2T9 AB Canada
| | - Emily Cox
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
| | - Beatrice Anghelescu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
| | - Mark Hamilton
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Room 1A10, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1 Canada
| | - Davide Martino
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Room 1A10, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1 Canada
| | - Veronica Bruno
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Room 1A10, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1 Canada
| | - Colin B. Josephson
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Room 1A10, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1 Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB 3D10, T2N 4Z6 Canada
| | - Scott Patten
- Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 1403 - 29 Street NW, Calgary, T2N 2T9 AB Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Room 1A10, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1 Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB 3D10, T2N 4Z6 Canada
- O’Brien Institute for Public Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3rd Floor TRW Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6 Canada
| | - Eric E. Smith
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Room 1A10, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1 Canada
| | - Pamela Roach
- Department of Family Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, T2N 4N1 AB Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Research Innovation Centre, University of Calgary, Room 1A10, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1 Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB 3D10, T2N 4Z6 Canada
- O’Brien Institute for Public Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3rd Floor TRW Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Matamala-Gomez M, Donegan T, Świdrak J. VR for Pain Relief. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2023; 65:309-336. [PMID: 36592274 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_402] [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] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The present chapter explores how immersive virtual reality (VR) systems can be used for pain research and treatment. Pain is a universal, yet entirely subjective and multifaceted unpleasant experience. One of the earliest VR studies on pain highlighted the role of attention in pain modulation. However, the role of body representation in pain modulation has also been described as a crucial factor. Through virtual reality systems, it is possible to modulate both attention to pain and body representation. In this chapter, first we define how immersive VR can be used to create the illusion of being present in immersive VR environments and argue why VR can be an effective tool for distracting patients from acute pain. However, distraction seems to be less useful in chronic pain treatment. Chronic pain can be highly disabling and can significantly impact not only the sufferer's quality of life, but also their perceptions of the bodily self. Close neural connections between the body matrix and pain open a chance for influencing pain through bodily illusions. This chapter explores approaches to inducing body ownership illusions in VR and discusses how they have been applied in pain research. The present chapter also covers a set of practical indications and methodological caveats of immersive VR and solutions for overcoming them. Finally, we outline several promising future research directions and highlight several yet unexplored areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Matamala-Gomez
- Department of Cognition, Development and Educational Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- Cognition and Brain Plasticity Group, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Tony Donegan
- Cortical Networks and Virtual Environments in Neuroscience Lab, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Experimental Virtual Environments for Neuroscience and Technology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Justyna Świdrak
- Cortical Networks and Virtual Environments in Neuroscience Lab, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Experimental Virtual Environments for Neuroscience and Technology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bernini S, Panzarasa S, Quaglini S, Costa A, Picascia M, Cappa SF, Cerami C, Tassorelli C, Vecchi T, Bottiroli S. HomeCoRe system for telerehabilitation in individuals at risk of dementia: A usability and user experience study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1129914. [PMID: 36873886 PMCID: PMC9983032 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1129914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Telerehabilitation has enabled a broader application of cognitive rehabilitation programs. We have recently developed HomeCoRe, a system for supporting cognitive intervention remotely with the assistance of a family member. The main goal of the present study was to determine usability and user experience of HomeCoRe in individuals at risk of dementia and in their family members. The association between subjects' technological skills and main outcome measures was evaluated as well. Methods Fourteen individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) or mild neurocognitive disorder (mNCD) were recruited to participate in this pilot study. All participants received a touch-screen laptop implemented with the HomeCoRe software. The intervention consisted of 18 sessions and included a patient-tailored adaptive protocol of cognitive exercises. Usability was assessed in terms of treatment adherence and participants' performance across sessions; user experience via self-reported questionnaires and a descriptive diary. Results Usability and user experience were overall satisfactory and suggested usability, pleasantness, and high motivation while using HomeCoRe. Technological skills correlated only with the perceived ability to start and/or perform exercises autonomously. Discussion These results, although preliminary, suggest that the usability and user experience of HomeCoRe are satisfactory and independent of technological skills. These findings encourage wider and more systematic use of HomeCoRe to overcome the current limitations of in-person cognitive rehabilitation programs and to reach more individuals at risk of dementia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bernini
- Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Panzarasa
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvana Quaglini
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Costa
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marta Picascia
- Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano F Cappa
- IUSS Cognitive Neuroscience (ICoN) Center, Scuola Universitaria di Studi Superiori IUSS, Pavia, Italy.,Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Cerami
- IUSS Cognitive Neuroscience (ICoN) Center, Scuola Universitaria di Studi Superiori IUSS, Pavia, Italy.,Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Tomaso Vecchi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Bottiroli
- Giustino Fortunato University, Benevento, Italy.,Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Worlikar H, Coleman S, Kelly J, O’Connor S, Murray A, McVeigh T, Doran J, McCabe I, O'Keeffe D. Mixed reality platforms in telehealth delivery: Scoping Review (Preprint). JMIR BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.2196/42709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
|
9
|
Anghelescu A. Telerehabilitation: A Practical Remote Alternative for Coaching and Monitoring Physical Kinetic Therapy in Patients with Mild and Moderate Disabling Parkinson's Disease during the COVID-19 Pandemic. PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2022; 2022:4370712. [PMID: 35979169 PMCID: PMC9377913 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4370712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic imposed social/physical distancing, lockdown measures, and forced reorientation of the rehabilitation programs for people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Epidemiologic safety measures boosted remote exercise-based treatment. Objectives Remote delivery of rehabilitation care services is not typically used in our department. Therefore, this study aimed to assess and implement a telehealth physical rehabilitation program tailored for outpatients with idiopathic PD and slight or medium functional limitations. Methods A prospective study was performed on a group of outpatients with idiopathic PD, selected from the database of the neurorehabilitation clinic of the Emergency Teaching Hospital "Bagdasar-Arseni." We studied 17 patients (5 women and 12 men), aged between 54-70 years (average 65.9 ± 4.87), with a disease history of 7.3 ± 3.6 (years), with mild or moderate disabling clinical forms, quantified by an average Hoehn and Yahr score of 2.3 ± 0.35 (limits 1.5-3). All patients underwent pharmacologic treatment with unchanged doses throughout the study. No patients had disabling osteoarticular problems (all could walk independently) and had no significant psycho-cognitive dysfunction. Patients were supervised and coached online in tandem by the therapist and physician. In addition, a family member assisted and supervised the patient's performance and coordinated the technical electronic procedures. Walking biodynamics was assessed by timing "6-meters walking" and "Get up and walk 3 meters" (TUG) tests. Each person attended ten sessions of motor telerehabilitation procedures (2 per week) lasting 50 minutes each during social distancing (October-December 2021). Results None of the patients was at increased risk of falling. They all improved their locomotor performance, reflected in a significant decrease in TUG duration (the initial average time improved from 13.50 seconds to 10.57). The telerehabilitation program also significantly improved the average walking speed (initially, 44.5 cm/sec and finally, it raised to 56.8 cm/sec). Discussion. The TUG and "6-meters walking" tests are helpful tools for a global biodynamic remote assessment of PD patients. Limitations of the study: a small group of selected patients, restrictive working conditions (due to epidemiological social/physical restrictions and no direct physiotherapist-patient contact), and need for supervision by an attendant to assist the subject and perform the audio-video transmission. Further studies are necessary to identify the optimal web-based model of care and boost the implementation of this modern neurorehabilitation concept. Conclusions Telemedicine turned the virtual space into a new reality and may compensate for the restrictions imposed on face-to-face meetings in pandemic conditions. Moreover, with modern telecommunication techniques, a regular and individualized physical kinetic rehabilitation program can be performed even in pandemic conditions. Remote delivery of kinetic motor programs was appropriate for selected groups of PD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurelian Anghelescu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Neurorehabilitation Clinic, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, Berceni Av., No. 12, Postal Code: 041915, 4th Sector, Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Stasolla F, Vinci LA, Cusano M. The Integration of Assistive Technology and Virtual Reality for Assessment and Recovery of Post-coma Patients With Disorders of Consciousness: A New Hypothesis. Front Psychol 2022; 13:905811. [PMID: 35899005 PMCID: PMC9309568 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.905811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
|
11
|
Martini S, Magistrelli L, Vignaroli F, Colombatto F, Comi C, Cosentino M. The Effects of COVID-19-Related Restrictions on Parkinson's Disease Patients in Italy: Results of a Structured Survey. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11113007. [PMID: 35683396 PMCID: PMC9181174 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11113007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 was first identified in China in late 2019 and spread globally, originating a pandemic. To limit the spreading of the virus, many countries, including Italy, introduced social distancing measures and limited human movement. The Italian government declared a lockdown of the whole country lasting about two months, and the introduced restrictive rules heavily impacted patients with chronic neurological diseases because of the reduced access to healthcare and community support services. In Parkinson’s disease, studies confirmed lockdown restrictions increase levels of psychological distress, impose limitations on physical activities, and cause a lack of clinical assistance. This study aims at investigating the impact of the pandemic during and beyond the lockdown period in such patients using an online survey. A total of 387 total patients accessed the survey and were asked about their personal experiences during and after lockdown. The results show a significant impact on people’s lives even months after lockdown restrictions were lifted, with a substantial and durable worsening in different aspects of daily life, heavily influenced by impaired access to health services—particularly physical therapies, including personal physical activity—and readily available clinical counselling, with an overall observation of worsening symptoms control. These aspects should be carefully considered in the assessment of global health care strategies to overcome the current pandemic and its broader effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Martini
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Luca Magistrelli
- Movement Disorders Centre, Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (L.M.); (F.V.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesca Vignaroli
- Movement Disorders Centre, Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (L.M.); (F.V.); (F.C.)
| | - Federico Colombatto
- Movement Disorders Centre, Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (L.M.); (F.V.); (F.C.)
| | - Cristoforo Comi
- Neurology Unit, S. Andrea Hospital, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 13100 Vercelli, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Marco Cosentino
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.)
- Center for Research in Neuroscience, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Stasolla F, Caffò AO, Bottiroli S, Ciarmoli D. An assistive technology program for enabling five adolescents emerging from a minimally conscious state to engage in communication, occupation, and leisure opportunities. Dev Neurorehabil 2022; 25:193-204. [PMID: 34895026 DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2021.2011457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-coma patients emerging from a minimally conscious state may have extensive motor disabilities and pose serious challenges to medical centers and home settings. OBJECTIVES To promote academic performance and communication skills of post-coma individuals with traumatic brain injuries emerging from a minimally conscious state through an Assistive Technology setup. To evaluate its effects on the participants' positive participation. To generalize the learning process. To assess the intervention's clinical and social validity. METHOD Study I included five adolescents exposed to an Assistive Technology setup enabling them with targeted adaptive behaviors. Study II involved fifty external raters in a social validation assessment. RESULTS Data evidenced an improved performance of all the participants during the intervention, assessed through a concurrent multiple baseline design across participants. Social raters favorably scored the use of the technology. CONCLUSION An Assistive Technology setup may be helpful to enhance the performance and positive participation of adolescents with traumatic brain injuries emerging from a minimally conscious state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro O Caffò
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Sara Bottiroli
- "Giustino Fortunato" University of Benevento, Benevento, Italy.,IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Meulenberg CJW, de Bruin ED, Marusic U. A Perspective on Implementation of Technology-Driven Exergames for Adults as Telerehabilitation Services. Front Psychol 2022; 13:840863. [PMID: 35369192 PMCID: PMC8968106 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.840863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A major concern of public health authorities is to also encourage adults to be exposed to enriched environments (sensory and cognitive-motor activity) during the pandemic lockdown, as was recently the case worldwide during the COVID-19 outbreak. Games for adults that require physical activity, known as exergames, offer opportunities here. In particular, the output of the gaming industry nowadays offers computer games with extended reality (XR) which combines real and virtual environments and refers to human-machine interactions generated by computers and wearable technologies. For example, playing the game in front of a computer screen while standing or walking on a force plate or treadmill allows the user to react to certain infrastructural changes and obstacles within the virtual environment. Recent developments, optimization, and minimizations in wearable technology have produced wireless headsets and sensors that allow for unrestricted whole-body movement. This makes the virtual experience more immersive and provides the opportunity for greater engagement than traditional exercise. Currently, XR serves as an umbrella term for current immersive technologies as well as future realities that enhance the experience with features that produce new controllable environments. Overall, these technology-enhanced exergames challenge the adult user and modify the experience by increasing sensory stimulation and creating an environment where virtual and real elements interact. As a therapy, exergames can potentially create new environments and visualizations that may be more ecologically valid and thus simulate real activities of daily living that can be trained. Furthermore, by adding telemedicine features to the exergame, progress over time can be closely monitored and feedback provided, offering future opportunities for cognitive-motor assessment. To more optimally serve and challenge adults both physically and cognitively over time in future lockdowns, there is a need to provide long-term remote training and feedback. Particularly related to activities of daily living that create opportunities for effective and lasting rehabilitation for elderly and sufferers from chronic non-communicable diseases (CNDs). The aim of the current review is to envision the remote training and monitoring of physical and cognitive aspects for adults with limited mobility (due to disability, disease, or age), through the implementation of concurrent telehealth and exergame features using XR and wireless sensor technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cécil J. W. Meulenberg
- Institute for Kinesiology Research, Science and Research Centre of Koper, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Eling D. de Bruin
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
- Department of Health, OST – University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Eling D. de Bruin,
| | - Uros Marusic
- Institute for Kinesiology Research, Science and Research Centre of Koper, Koper, Slovenia
- Alma Mater Europaea – ECM, Department of Health Sciences, Maribor, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Paplikar A, Rajagopalan J, Alladi S. Care for dementia patients and caregivers amid COVID-19 pandemic. CEREBRAL CIRCULATION - COGNITION AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 3:100040. [PMID: 35072119 PMCID: PMC8763414 DOI: 10.1016/j.cccb.2022.100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple efforts have been taken across the world to bridge gaps in evidence and provide recommendations for dementia care and caregiver support during the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to review the available literature on measures used to alleviate the negative impacts of the pandemic on dementia care. METHODS We searched three databases: PubMed, CINAHL and PsycINFO to identify studies that described strategies that were recommended or taken to provide care and support to persons with dementia and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS We included a total of 37 papers, originating from high, middle and low-income countries. We also included 6 papers exploring safety of COVID-19 vaccinations. Infection prevention recommendations predominantly involved providing consistent reminders to persons with dementia to engage in infection prevention measures and included measures to restrict wandering in long-term care settings to reduce spread of infection. Medical care included tele and video consultations to maintain and monitor clinical stability. Guidance for continuing rehabilitation activities for persons with dementia through remotely conducted cognitive stimulating activities, physical exercises and environmental modifications were further highlighted by multiple studies/articles. In addition, strategies to support caregivers were also advised and included teleconsultations and psycho-educational programs. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed gaps in health and social care systems across the world, but has also revealed the enduring dedication of clinicians, expert groups and dementia support organizations to modify and adapt existing dementia care services to meet the needs of persons with dementia and their caregivers during periods of emergency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Avanthi Paplikar
- Dr. S.R.Chandrasekhar Institute of Speech and Hearing, Bengaluru, India, 560084.,Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences [NIMHANS], Bengaluru, India, 560029
| | - Jayeeta Rajagopalan
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences [NIMHANS], Bengaluru, India, 560029
| | - Suvarna Alladi
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences [NIMHANS], Bengaluru, India, 560029
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bernini S, Panzarasa S, Sinforiani E, Quaglini S, Cappa SF, Cerami C, Tassorelli C, Vecchi T, Bottiroli S. HomeCoRe for Telerehabilitation in Mild or Major Neurocognitive Disorders: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Neurol 2022; 12:752830. [PMID: 35002919 PMCID: PMC8733654 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.752830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Given the limited effectiveness of pharmacological treatments for cognitive decline, non-pharmacological interventions have gained increasing attention. Evidence exists on the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation in preventing elderly subjects at risk of cognitive decline and in reducing the progression of functional disability in cognitively impaired individuals. In recent years, telerehabilitation has enabled a broader application of cognitive rehabilitation programs. The purpose of this study is to test a computer-based intervention administered according to two different modalities (at the hospital and at home) using the tools CoRe and HomeCoRe, respectively, in participants with Mild or Major Neurocognitive Disorders. Methods: Non-inferiority, single-blind randomized controlled trial where 40 participants with Mild or Major Neurocognitive Disorders will be assigned to the intervention group who will receive cognitive telerehabilitation through HomeCoRe or to the control group who will receive in-person cognitive intervention through CoRe, with the therapist administering the same computer-based exercises. The rehabilitative program will last 6 weeks, with 3 sessions/week, each lasting ~45 min. All the participants will be evaluated on an exhaustive neuropsychological battery before (T0) and after (T1) the intervention; follow-up visits will be scheduled after 6 (T2) and 12 months (T3). Discussion: The results of this study will inform about the comparability (non-inferiority trial) of HomeCoRe with CoRe. Their equivalence would support the use of HomeCoRe for at distance treatment, favoring the continuity of care. Ethics and Dissemination: This study has been approved by the Local Ethics Committee and registered in https://clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04889560). The dissemination plan includes the scientific community through publication in open-access peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentations at national and international conferences. Trial Registration:Clinicaltrials.govhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04889560 (registration date: May 17, 2021).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bernini
- Dementia Research Center, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Panzarasa
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Sinforiani
- Dementia Research Center, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvana Quaglini
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano F Cappa
- Dementia Research Center, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,IUSS Cognitive Neuroscience (ICoN) Center, Scuola Universitaria di Studi Superiori IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Cerami
- Dementia Research Center, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,IUSS Cognitive Neuroscience (ICoN) Center, Scuola Universitaria di Studi Superiori IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Centre, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Tomaso Vecchi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Cognitive Psychology Research Center, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Bottiroli
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, Benevento, Italy.,Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Centre, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare (IRCCS) Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Stasolla F. Virtual Reality and Wearable Technologies to Support Adaptive Responding of Children and Adolescents With Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Critical Comment and New Perspectives. Front Psychol 2021; 12:720626. [PMID: 34322073 PMCID: PMC8311117 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.720626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
|
17
|
Bottiroli S, Bernini S, Cavallini E, Sinforiani E, Zucchella C, Pazzi S, Cristiani P, Vecchi T, Tost D, Sandrini G, Tassorelli C. The Smart Aging Platform for Assessing Early Phases of Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Psychol 2021; 12:635410. [PMID: 33790839 PMCID: PMC8005545 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.635410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Smart Aging is a serious game (SG) platform that generates a 3D virtual reality environment in which users perform a set of screening tasks designed to allow evaluation of global cognition. Each task replicates activities of daily living performed in a familiar environment. The main goal of the present study was to ascertain whether Smart Aging could differentiate between different types and levels of cognitive impairment in patients with neurodegenerative disease. Methods: Ninety-one subjects (mean age = 70.29 ± 7.70 years)—healthy older adults (HCs, n = 23), patients with single-domain amnesic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI, n = 23), patients with single-domain executive Parkinson's disease MCI (PD-MCI, n = 20), and patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (mild AD, n = 25)—were enrolled in the study. All participants underwent cognitive evaluations performed using both traditional neuropsychological assessment tools, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Overall Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and the Smart Aging platform. We analyzed global scores on Smart Aging indices (i.e., accuracy, time, distance) as well as the Smart Aging total score, looking for differences between the four groups. Results: The findings revealed significant between-group differences in all the Smart Aging indices: accuracy (p < 0.001), time (p < 0.001), distance (p < 0.001), and total Smart Aging score (p < 0.001). The HCs outperformed the mild AD, aMCI, and PD-MCI patients in terms of accuracy, time, distance, and Smart Aging total score. In addition, the mild AD group was outperformed both by the HCs and by the aMCI and PD-MCI patients on accuracy and distance. No significant differences were found between aMCI and PD-MCI patients. Finally, the Smart Aging scores significantly correlated with the results of the neuropsychological assessments used. Conclusion: These findings, although preliminary due to the small sample size, suggest the validity of Smart Aging as a screening tool for the detection of cognitive impairment in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bottiroli
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, Benevento, Italy.,National Neurological Institute C. Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Bernini
- National Neurological Institute C. Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Cavallini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Sinforiani
- National Neurological Institute C. Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Zucchella
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Verona University Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefania Pazzi
- Consorzio di Bioingegneria Medica e Informatica CBIM, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Cristiani
- Consorzio di Bioingegneria Medica e Informatica CBIM, Pavia, Italy
| | - Tomaso Vecchi
- National Neurological Institute C. Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniela Tost
- Computer Graphics Division Research Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CREB), Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giorgio Sandrini
- National Neurological Institute C. Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- National Neurological Institute C. Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jerath R, Beveridge C. Harnessing the Spatial Foundation of Mind in Breaking Vicious Cycles in Anxiety, Insomnia, and Depression: The Future of Virtual Reality Therapy Applications. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:645289. [PMID: 34305666 PMCID: PMC8295564 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.645289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental Illnesses, particularly anxiety, insomnia, and depression often involve vicious cycles which are self-perpetuating and can trap one into a more chronic state. For example in the case of insomnia, sympathetic overactivity, intrusive thoughts, and emotional instability due to sleep loss can perpetuate further sleep loss the next night and so on. In this article, we put forward a perspective on breaking these vicious cycles based on preeminent theories in global and spatial cognition, that the foundation of the conscious mind is a spatial coordinate system. Based on this we discuss the potential and future of virtual reality therapeutic applications which utilize massive virtual spaces along with biofeedback designed to help break perpetual cycles in depression, anxiety, and insomnia. "Massive spaces" are those which are truly expansive such as when looking to the clear night sky. These virtual realities may take the form of a night sky, fantastical cosmic scenes, or other scenes such as mountain tops. We also hope to inspire research into such a spatial foundation of mind, use of perceived massive spaces for therapy, and the integration of biofeedback into virtual therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravinder Jerath
- Charitable Medical Healthcare Foundation, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Connor Beveridge
- Charitable Medical Healthcare Foundation, Augusta, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|