Programs Using Stimulation-Regulating Technologies to Promote Physical Activity in People With Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities: Scoping Review.

The search was limited to English-language articles, so relevant studies in other languages may have been missed. The search used free-text terms rather than indexed terms, which may have made it less precise. Studies involving autism spectrum disorder were excluded, limiting the picture for that population. The included studies used different designs, outcome measures, session lengths, and participant profiles, so the review cannot compare the technologies directly. The response-contingent studies used single-subject designs with few participants, and the video game studies varied in design and outcomes. The review did not assess whether video game participants found the game stimulation enjoyable or preferred it. The practicality of both approaches may require staff time, skills, and technical setup.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Do not read this review as proof that these technologies work for every patient with intellectual or multiple disability. The included studies used different participants, measures, and designs, and the review says the results cannot be easily compared and contrasted.