Developing ActivABLES for community-dwelling stroke survivors using the Medical Research Council framework for complex interventions

Olafsdottir, Steinunn A.; Jonsdottir, Helga; Magnusson, Charlotte; Caltenco, Héctor; Kytö, Mikko; Maye, Laura; McGookin, David; Bjartmarz, Ingibjörg; Arnadottir, Solveig Asa; Hjaltadottir, Ingibjörg; Hafsteinsdottir, Thora B.

doi:10.1186/s12913-020-05198-2

Table 2 Prototypes of ActivABLES

From: Developing ActivABLES for community-dwelling stroke survivors using the Medical Research Council framework for complex interventions

	Preliminary testing	Feedback during observations	Revisions of the prototype
ActivFOAM	The foam was connected to a tablet where the users could see how their weight was distributed on the mat, get audio feedback and play one game (The bomb). The user could see on the screen when weight was shifted from 1 foot to the other.	“It is very convenient to stand on this and see how I am standing. It gives you comments on how you are standing”.	Two games were added as ways to practice balance. Also, there were possibilities to use different music to encourage weight shifting and stepping one the mat.
WalkingSTARR	Not yet developed.		After the preliminary testing it was decided to develop an iPhone application to encourage walking.
ActivBALL	The ball was introduced as a mouse for a computer when browsing Google Street View, and online magazines and for basic internet browsers, and to play basic games such as Tic-Tac-Toe. It could also be used as a tool for squeezing (or do other exercisesfor the hand/wrist) to “earn” a series from television/Netflix.	“I think it could work as a mouse - it would be a more suitable movement [for the hand]”.	Due to lack of time, it was not possible to develop these possibilities further prior to the feasibility study. Therefore, the exercises were repetitive movements with the recommended number of daily exercises seen on the tablet. A counter for the exercises was visible on the tablet.
ActivSTICKS	The sticks were introduced as a tool to use to browse Google Street View. The idea was to have a double-arm tool to use for “wandering around” on Google streets.	The users found it difficult to handle the sticks. Although the idea was new to the users, it was decided to develop it further.	Due to lack of time, it was not possible to develop these possibilities further prior to the feasibility study. Therefore, the exercises were repetitive movements with the recommended number of daily exercises seen on the tablet. A counter for the exercises was visible on the tablet.
ActivLAMP	The light gave feedback on how long the users had been exercising.	“I think it is rewarding to see the light strip become progressively more lit up”.	ActivLAMP was further developed into a single light strip in a stained glass cylinder that lit up as the user used one ActivABLES tool.
ActivTREE	Not yet developed.	“It would be good to have something that gives an overview of the exercises”	After the preliminary testing, it was decided that it was necessary to provide feedback on multiple activities at the same time.

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