Successful performance of basic gestures in tablet technology in post stroke patients: A feasibility study

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Tablet technology is a promising tool for assisting therapeutic strategies in stroke rehabilitation. However, it is not clear whether the basic gestures (e.g. click, double-click) are feasible.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to assess the successful performance of gestures and associated factors.

METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted at a rehabilitation center in Austria. The successful tablet use was checked on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 (10.1 Wi-Fi 25.6 cm; 10.1 Zoll) with a specifically developed app. To identify factors associated with successful use, impairments in activities of daily living (Barthel index), cognitive functions (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA), motor functions (Nine-Hole Peg Test), and grip strength (handgrip dynamometer) were assessed.

RESULTS:

One hundred and twenty-nine participants were analyzed, whereof 53.5% had a paretic upper limp and 69.2% were able to perform all gestures with at least one hand. Factors associated with successful use were higher Barthel index (OR: 1.06; 95% CI $=$ 1.01–1.11) and MoCA (OR: 1.21; 95% CI $=$ 1.01–1.44), whereas lower age (OR: 0.91; 95% CI $=$ 0.83–0.99) and a paretic hand (OR: 0.12; 95% CI $=$ 0.01–0.99) were associated with a lesser likelihood. Additionally, 18.6% successfully performed all gestures with the paretic hand, whereof 74% could not perform the double-click and 77.0% were not able to zoom.

CONCLUSIONS:

The majority of stroke patients are able to perform the basic gestures on a tablet with at least one hand, but only few patients with paresis could do them. Gestures like double-clicking and zooming should be avoided when designing apps for rehabilitation, as especially these were found difficult.