Table 1 Prototypes of ActivABLES tested in the feasibility study

ActivFOAM

A foam balance mat with pressure sensors that gives individually tailored visual and audio feedback on weight shifting and center of mass while standing. The mat is connected to a tablet which is positioned in front of the user. Three games and different forms of audio feedback can be selected from the tablet.

To exercise balance and weight-bearing in a standing position.

Walking STARR

An application for iPhone which records steps and walking time. The idea is to simulate taking the dog for a walk. Games include having to stop to let the dog pee and eat. Finishing games allows the user to collect stars.

To motivate and provide feedback on progress of walking.

ActivBALL

A soft ball to exercise motor control of the arm and develop grip strength. The ball is connected to a tablet which is positioned in front of the user and which can be pre-programmed for individually tailored sets of exercises. The range of motion and pressure detected while squeezing can be adjusted for each user. The tablet gives feedback by counting the repetitions. The ball can be used to exercise: 1) forearm pronation/supination, 2) dorsiflexion and palmar flexion of the wrist, 3) external/internal rotation of the shoulder, 4) flexion and extension of the fingers while squeezing.

To exercise the motor control of the hand and forearm

ActivSTICKS

Two sticks linked together forming an angle from 0° to 180°. The sticks are connected to a tablet which is positioned in front of the user and which can be pre-programmed for individually tailored sets of exercises. The range of motion detected, and resistance can be adjusted for each user. The tablet gives feedback by counting the repetitions. The sticks can be used to exercise: 1) abduction and adduction of the shoulder, 2) flexion of the shoulder, 3) elbow flexion and extension, along with coordination of the left and right arms while doing “scissors”, 4) rotation of the upper body.

To exercise the motor control of the shoulder and upper body.

ActivLAMP

A lamp that that gradually brightens in connection with exercises or physical activities. The lamp is connected to a tablet and can be connected to any of the above exercise tools.

To motivate and provide feedback on progress of exercises or walking.

ActivTREE

A tree that has three branches that gradually brighten in connection with exercises and physical activities. The tree is connected to a tablet and can be connected to any of the above exercise tools. Each branch represents a different tool and they all share the same trunk.

To motivate and provide feedback on progress of exercises and walking.