Usabilidade de recursos de tecnologia assistiva de baixo custo e sua influência na qualidade de vida e independência funcional na doença de Parkinson

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurological disorder characterized by the successive decrease of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. This dysfunction generates a movement disorder, characterized mainly by: tremor at rest, muscle stiffness, bradykinesia and postural instability. Manual function is one skillcompromised in PD and can cause significant impairment in the daily life activities. The performance of these activities can be improved by Assistive Technology (TA) resources, however some aspects such as satisfaction must be considered. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the satisfaction level of low-cost ATy devices for ADLs and their influence on functional independence and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Methods: 18 individuals initially screened were assessed at baseline using the MIF scale (measure of functional independence) and the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39). Then, individuals were randomly allocated tothe Assistive Technology intervention group (GTA) and the Control group (CG). GTA participants received a low-cost device kit, training anduse instructions. The CG received only oral orientations on ADLs.15 days after there was a follow-up telephone contact for both groups, and after 30 days, the individuals were reassessed with the MIF, PDQ-39 and BQUEST-2.0. The statistical analyzes were processed using the IBM SPSS® Statistics software. Shapiro – Wilk, student t-test and Wilcoxon - Mann Whitney were used. Results: Individuals with PD showed a high level of satisfaction at BQUEST with the use of AT devices, however the use of AT devices did not promote any change in the functional independence or quality of life of individuals with Parkinson's disease, one month after their use