Assessing the Usability of Kinect Sensor Gestures in Parkinson’s Disease: A Comparative Study of Standing and Seated Interactions
摘要
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) significantly impairs motor skills, rendering daily tasks increasingly challenging as the condition advances. Recent technological advancements—particularly in augmented reality (AR)—offer promising opportunities for enhancing physical therapy and patient engagement. This study evaluates the usability of Kinect sensor gestures specifically designed for patients with stage 2 and 3 PD. Two trials were conducted with 13 patients, assessing their ability to complete five gesture-based tasks in both standing and seated positions. Although the standing group generally performed better, the seated trials revealed significant challenges, particularly with the Kinect menu gesture. Patient feedback was largely positive, with many reporting enjoyments and a sensation of increased agility; however, patients with dystonia and those unfamiliar with the technology experienced notable difficulties. The findings suggest that gesture-based AR applications should emphasize shorter, adaptable gestures and incorporate a universal menu gesture suitable for both seated and standing users. In conclusion, while gesture-based AR devices hold potential for improving technological interaction for PD patients, careful consideration of user need, and limitations is crucial for their successful implementation in therapeutic contexts.