Adjustability for Grasping Force of Patients with Autism by iWakka: A Pilot Study

Herein, we present a pilot study on the adjustability for grasping force (AGF) of patients with autism. The AGF is the ability to grasp an object with an appropriate force. In our previous study, we developed a training and testing device for the AGF and a system to use it, called iWakka. Impairments in motor functioning, which until recently have been rarely a primary focus in autism spectrum disorder research, may be associated with key social communication deficits. Patients with autism are also suggested to exhibit a longer yaw displacement, indicating a larger head turning, than those without autism. A pilot study was conducted to explore the applicability of the above-mentioned device to autistic patients; eight participants with autism were involved in this study. Three participants could not use iWakka without assistance. The AGF of the four participants who could use iWakka by themselves was improved after training. Moreover, we noticed a reduction in the yaw head displacement of three participants. Because the head pose is an important indicator of the focus of attention of a person, this result suggested that their focus of attention was also improved. Therapists were interviewed for their opinions. Some activities of the participants changed after training with iWakka (e.g., they could sit and focus for longer than before). It was suggested that iWakka has the potential to improve the AGF and other abilities of patients with autism.