Start Date
16-6-2025 3:30 PM
End Date
16-6-2025 5:00 PM
Abstract
Introduction
Children and adolescents with disabilities (CAWD) engage in physical activity (PA) less than their peers. Device-based monitoring systems can be used to assess PA, but CAWD's diverse functional profiles must be considered. The FALLA project (2022–2024) aimed to develop a PA measurement and feedback system for CAWD, to collect data on PA, and to evaluate the usability of different PA monitors.
Method
Existing literature on device-based monitoring systems for CAWD was reviewed. As a result, questionnaire-based decision tree, the FALLA form, was developed to assist in choosing an appropriate PA monitoring solution. The first version of this form was tested and modified by observing CAWD during a school day. The finalized form's reliability was evaluated with a selected group of CAWD, where the researcher, guardians, and teachers filled out the form simultaneously.
Results
The FALLA form includes 16 questions leading to six options for the most appropriate device and mounting locations. Guardians’ view was seen most reliable. Individuality is crucial in measuring PA for CAWD. Moderate-to-vigorous daily PA varied widely (7-102 min/day). Of 96 adolescents, 87% found the monitors easy to use, though one-fourth felt the device hampered daily life, and one-third experienced skin symptoms.
Conclusions
Information on locomotion, limited use of body parts, range of movement, assistive aids, and preferred PA types is crucial for selecting the appropriate PA monitor, mounting location for the device, and analysis methods. Simplicity and convenience are especially important for those with cognitive, psychological, or social limitations.
Recommended Citation
Asunta, Piritta; Kulmala, Janne; Kukko, Tuomas; Hakonen, Harto; Tammelin, Tuija; and Karinharju, Kati, "Device-based methods for monitoring physical activity in children and adolescents with disabilities" (2025). International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness. 19.
https://sword.mtu.ie/isapa/2025/day1/19
Device-based methods for monitoring physical activity in children and adolescents with disabilities
Introduction
Children and adolescents with disabilities (CAWD) engage in physical activity (PA) less than their peers. Device-based monitoring systems can be used to assess PA, but CAWD's diverse functional profiles must be considered. The FALLA project (2022–2024) aimed to develop a PA measurement and feedback system for CAWD, to collect data on PA, and to evaluate the usability of different PA monitors.
Method
Existing literature on device-based monitoring systems for CAWD was reviewed. As a result, questionnaire-based decision tree, the FALLA form, was developed to assist in choosing an appropriate PA monitoring solution. The first version of this form was tested and modified by observing CAWD during a school day. The finalized form's reliability was evaluated with a selected group of CAWD, where the researcher, guardians, and teachers filled out the form simultaneously.
Results
The FALLA form includes 16 questions leading to six options for the most appropriate device and mounting locations. Guardians’ view was seen most reliable. Individuality is crucial in measuring PA for CAWD. Moderate-to-vigorous daily PA varied widely (7-102 min/day). Of 96 adolescents, 87% found the monitors easy to use, though one-fourth felt the device hampered daily life, and one-third experienced skin symptoms.
Conclusions
Information on locomotion, limited use of body parts, range of movement, assistive aids, and preferred PA types is crucial for selecting the appropriate PA monitor, mounting location for the device, and analysis methods. Simplicity and convenience are especially important for those with cognitive, psychological, or social limitations.