Table 2 Level of Assistance definitions
Level of Assistance | Don/Doff | Therapy activity task |
|---|---|---|
Total assistance | Participant performs 0–25% of the effort to don/doff the exoskeleton Participant is essentially reliant on the trainer to perform all aspects of the donning/doffing | Participant performs 0–25% of the effort to use the exoskeleton Two therapists are required to support the participant in the device at all times |
Maximum assistance | Participant performs 25–50% of the effort to don/doff the device Participant needs maximum assistance to transfer to device and position legs but may be able to adjust the thigh straps | Participant performs 25–50% of the effort to use the device Participant needs maximum assistance from the therapist to remain balanced |
Moderate assistance | Participant performs 50–75% of the effort to don/doff the device Participant needs moderate assistance to transfer to device and position legs but may be able to adjust the thigh and shin straps | Participant performs 50–75% of the effort to use the device The therapist has both hands on the participant or device at all times to provide occasional guidance or balance support |
Minimal assistance | Participant performs > 75% of the effort to don/doff the device Participant can transfer to device and adjust straps but may need help to position legs | Participant performs > 75% or more of the effort to use the device The therapist has one hand on the participant or device for infrequent guidance or balance support |
Supervision | The therapist is not touching the participant but may provide verbal prompts or contact guarding to ensure safety | The therapist is not touching the participant but is close enough to provide support for balance or guidance as needed |
Independent | Participant is fully independent donning/doffing device | The participant is fully independent while using the device and the therapist does not provide any assistance |