Evaluating and Monitoring Physical Fatigue While Performing Functional Activities

Evaluating and Monitoring Physical Fatigue While Performing Functional Activities

Fatigue is a critical health parameter in older adults and stroke patients and is associated with negative health outcomes. Current assessment tools predominantly focus on walking related fatigue, neglecting other activities of daily living (ADLs). This study aims to fill this gap by developing a standardized, laboratory-based fatigue protocol that includes a broader range of ADLs, providing a more comprehensive fatigue assessment that's in line with the WHO vision of healthy ageing.

The aim of this study is to evaluate a lab-based fatigue protocol and to unravel the relationship between physiological or movement data and perceived fatigue.

Participants will take part in three separate measurement moments, during which they will execute a performance task that induces fatigue. In addition, relevant sensors will be used to collect meaningful data.

Stroke survivors:

Inclusion Criteria:

• > 18 years old
• ≥ 3 months ago stroke diagnosis
• FAC levels 3-5

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe problems with speech or memory which prevents the participant to understand or follow instruction
• Co-morbidities that could influence the task execution and collected data

Older adults with sarcopenia:

Inclusion:

• > 65 years old
• Grip strength: < 27 kg (man) or < 16 kg (woman)
• Be mobile independently

Exclusion:

• Severe problems with speech or memory which prevents the participant to understand or follow instruction
• Co-morbidities that could influence the task execution and collected data

Healthy individuals:

Inclusion:

• > 18 years old
• Healthy physical and medical condition

Exclusion:

• Physical injury or disorder that doesn't allow good physical performance