Parkinson & PC: Testing equipment

The pilot project PIKT (Parkinson's ICT challenges) is investigating the challenges PC users with Parkinson encounter, and how these challenges can best be solved. Trials with various types of computer equipment have been carried out to find which equipment best suits the needs of Parkinson users.

Story by: - 19.09.2008

The PC is an important tool both at work and at home for communication, information and interaction. PC users with Parkinson face many challenges which may prevent them from continuing to use the PC in an effective way. These challenges are now being investigated in the pilot project PIKT - Parkinson's ICT challenges. 

Various types of alternative computer equipment were tested by eight PC users with Parkinson over a three day period from Wednesday 27 to Friday 29 August. The first day was used for preparation, and to monitor various user challenges. The actual test peirod was over two days, and testing was held at Micro Daisy in Hønefoss and Oslo University College in the new Interaction lab for Engineering studies.

The equipment users were testing ranged from standard-shelf equipment such as various types of ergonomic Computer mouses, assistive devices for example a screen magnifier, to equipment at the prototype stage, the University's iGlåv.

Testing of mouse control using the tremor filter ( "Parkinsonmouse") with different settings is shown below left. To the right the same tester is using  iGlåv to help trace an ellipse form.

The PIKT-pilot project is a joint effort and cooperation between different communities, where our goal is to improve competence about possible adjustments for PC users with Parkinson, and to specify problem areas for these users.  Data from the pre-project survey, which was completed in June, are now being processed, as are the results from testing.  The results will be combined and compiled before Christmas.

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