Title : Evaluating the effectiveness of Information technology in rehabilitation training for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities- Single case study with multiple-baseline design
Abstract:
Background: This study examined the effectiveness of Information Technology (IT) in rehabilitation training for individualswith physical and Intellectual Disabilities (ID). With increasing integration of technology into healthcare, IT offers potential solutions to address limitations in traditional rehabilitation methods, particularly for populations with complex needs such as ID. Conventional therapies often struggle to sustain engagement or address multifaceted challenges, including motor skill deficits and barriers to independence. This study sought to explore how IT tools could enhance participation, functional outcomes, and psychosocial well- being in this population.
Objective: The primary aim was to evaluate the impact of IT-integrated rehabilitation on functional independence and engagement for adults with ID. Specific goals included (1) improving balance, limb strength, range of motion (ROM), and agility; (2) fostering independence in daily living activities (e.g., dressing, toileting); and (3) assessing participant satisfaction and motivation through technology-driven interventions.
Methods: Seven adults with ID participated in a 12-week program involving 40-minute weekly sessions. IT tools — a treadmill, interactive panel, motion-sensor video games, and a standing frame — were selected to target critical functional domains. Each session comprised 30 minutes of IT-based training (e.g., balance games, gait exercises) and 10 minutes of assessments conducted by occupational therapists or physiotherapists. Interventions were tailored to individual capabilities, with adjustments to treadmill speed, game difficulty, and task complexity. Clinical metrics (balance, strength, ROM) and qualitative observations (participation, engagement, satisfaction) were systematically recorded.
Result: Quantitative analysis revealed no statistically significant functional improvements across participants. However, transient gains in balance and mobility were observed during the baseline phase. Qualitative feedback highlighted overwhelmingly positive experiences: participants described sessions as “fun,” expressed eagerness to attend (“happy to attend”), and reported heightened motivation (“look forward to next session”). Clinicians noted increased participation and enjoyment, suggesting improved engagement compared to conventional therapies.
Discussion: The absence of significant functional changes may reflect the short intervention duration, which may inadequately address cumulative motor and cognitive deficits associated with ID and aging. This aligns with prior studies suggesting that prolonged, frequent sessions are critical for measurable progress in populations with complex needs. The lack of functional decline suggests a clinically meaningful maintenance effect, preserving independence in a population prone to physical deterioration. The overwhelmingly positive feedback and sustained participation further emphasizes the application of technology can enhance engagement rather than traditional therapy.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that IT-integrated rehabilitation fosters engagement, motivation, and psychosocial well-being in adults with ID, even without significant functional improvements. The observed maintenance effect and positive participant experiences advocate for technology as a complementary tool in rehabilitation frameworks.
