JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms. Recently, dance has started to be considered an effective intervention for people with PD. Several findings in the literature emphasize the necessity for deeper exploration into the synergistic impacts of dance therapy and exergaming for PD management. Moreover, socially engaging robotic platforms equipped with advanced interaction and perception features offer potential for monitoring patients' posture and enhancing workout routines with tailored cues.

Objective:

This paper presents the results of the SI-Robotics project, aimed at designing an innovative rehabilitation program targeted at seniors affected by (early stage) Parkinson’s Disease. This study therefore aims to assess the efficacy of a dance-based rehabilitation program enriched by AI-based exergames and contextual robotic assistance in improving motor function, balance, gait, and quality of life in patients with Parkinson.

Methods:

The study is designed as a technical feasibility pilot to test the SI-Robotics system. For this study, 20 patients with PD were recruited. Sixteen Irish dance-based rehabilitation(?) sessions of 50 minutes were conducted (two sessions per week, for 8 weeks), involving two patients at a time. The designed rehabilitation session involves three main actors: (i) a therapist; (ii) a patient and; (ii) a socially interacting robot. To stimulate engagement, sessions are organized in the shape of exergames where an avatar shows patients the movements they should perform to correctly carry out a dance-based rehabilitation exercise.

Results:

Statistical analysis reveals a significant effect on the POMA scale, both on balance and gait aspects, together with improvements in SPPB, UPDRS-III and TUG, underlying the effectiveness of the rehabilitation intervention on the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

Conclusions:

This research underscores the promise of merging dance therapy with interactive exergaming on a robotic platform as an innovative strategy to enhance motor function, balance, gait, and overall quality of life for patients grappling with PD. Clinical Trial: The study was recorded in ClinicalTrials.gov on 13 August 2021 on the number NCT05005208.