City University researchers developing technology to assist stroke victims

Prototype could employ motion sensing systems similar to Wii games console

Researchers at London’s City University are working with The Stroke Association to develop technologies that could be used to help people who have suffered strokes communicate.

Motion sensing systems, such as those used in Nintendo’s Wii games console, are among a number of technologies being considered to develop a system that could help patients afflicted by aphasia in the wake of a stroke. The aim is to develop an affordable, computer-based technology to help them learn how to “gesture” independently at home. A prototype of the device, which could employ visual or audio feedback for the user, is scheduled to be produced by June next year. 

Aphasia is often caused by a stroke and can be severely disabling for the survivor.

Gestures that can be readily interpreted by others are often advocated in aphasia treatment, but can be difficult for aphasic people to learn, because they have additional stroke-related disabilities, such as one-sided paralysis. 

Gesturing can be improved through therapy, but one-to-one sessions can be costly.

It is hoped that the technology being developed by the City research team could provide training in how to gesture in the interim periods between therapy sessions. 

City University researcher Dr Julia Galliers, an expert on human-computer interaction, said the aim was to develop a fun and motivational tool to assist stroke victims. “The prototype is at an exploratory phase. We are looking at lots of different technologies including motion-sensing and hands-free options. We want to determine what the best technologies, or combinations of technologies, are.” 

The project is being funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.