TumbleTooth, an ADL-based home rehabilitation aid for hand-stroke patients

Following initial recovery, stroke patients tend to lose their motivation to perform exercises at home. This thesis investigates how to seamlessly integrate the exercises into an object of daily living in an at-home setting. Through the Self Determination Theory and Health Belief Model we managed to present an overview of the health behavior of stroke patients. Subsequently, we identified a design gap in the current related work. Based on observations, 'Brushing teeth' was identified as the most promising activities of daily living in this context. After that, we classified suitable exercises and a proper design features list. This resulted in TumbleTooth. TumbleTooth is a toothbrush with a rotating head to encourage wrist movement. A user evaluation indicated that the concept seemed to seamlessly promote exercises. However, this must be reconfirmed in a longitudinal test. The findings of this thesis demonstrate a successful seamless ADL-based hand exercise object for stroke patients.