Saeed Abdullah’s research while affiliated with Pennsylvania State University and other places

Objective Engaging users during physical exercise is crucial for fostering long-term commitment, however, sustaining that engagement remains a significant challenge. This study explores the design of a voice-enabled exoskeleton-based virtual exercise coach (VEC) that provides real-time verbal feedback to enhance user engagement. The objectives of this study are twofold: (i) to compare user engagement with real-time verbal feedback from both VEC and human exercise coach (HEC) during physical exercise, and (ii) to understand users’ perceptions and gather their recommendations for improving future VEC technologies. Methods We developed an exoskeleton-based VEC that delivers real-time verbal feedback on users’ exercise performance. To evaluate its impact on user engagement, we conducted a lab-based mixed-methods study ( N = 32 ) over a period of 6 weeks comparing users’ engagement with the VEC and HEC using User Engagement Scale (UES) questionnaire and conducted semi-structured interviews to understand users’ perceptions of the VEC. Results Participants in this study found the VEC more engaging than the HEC, in terms of focused attention ( Z = 156.5 , p < .001 ) and perceived usability ( Z = 32 , p < .001 ). Post-interaction interviews revealed that (i) users found the VEC to be engaging, intuitive, easy to use, and convenient; (ii) users perceived the VEC as a valuable training companion that could help reduce the emotional insecurities often associated with going to the gym; and (iii) users expressed a desire for the VEC to have a personality and embodiment that motivates and supports personalized interactions. Conclusion Based on our results, we discuss the challenges and implications for designing future voice-enabled VECs that support engaging physical exercises.

Objective Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a pervasive health concern affecting millions of individuals. However, there remain significant barriers to providing resources and addressing the needs of individuals living with PTSD. To address this treatment gap, we have collaborated with clinical experts to develop PTSDialogue—a conversational agent (CA) that aims to support effective self-management of PTSD. In this work, we have focused on assessing the feasibility and acceptance of PTSDialogue for individuals living with PTSD. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with individuals living with PTSD ( N = 12 ). Participants were asked about their experiences with the PTSDialogue and their perceptions of its usefulness in managing PTSD. We then used bottom-up thematic analysis with a qualitative interpretivist approach to analyze the interview data. Results All participants expressed that PTSDialogue could be beneficial for supporting PTSD treatment. We also uncovered key opportunities and challenges in using CAs to complement existing clinical practices and support longitudinal self-management of PTSD. We highlight important design features of CAs to provide effective support for this population, including the need for personalization, education, and privacy-sensitive interactions. Conclusion We demonstrate the acceptability of CAs to support longitudinal self-management of PTSD. Based on these findings, we have outlined design recommendations for technologies aiming to reduce treatment and support gaps for individuals living with serious mental illnesses.

Conversational agents (sometimes called chatbots) are technology-based systems that use artificial intelligence to simulate human-to-human conversations. Research on conversational agents in health care is nascent but growing, with recent reviews highlighting the need for more robust evaluations in diverse settings and populations. In this article, we consider how conversational agents might function in palliative care-not by replacing clinicians, but by interacting with patients around select uncomplicated needs while facilitating more targeted and appropriate referrals to specialty palliative care services. We describe potential roles for conversational agents aligned with the core domains of quality palliative care and identify risks that must be considered and addressed in the development and use of these systems for people with serious illness. With careful consideration of risks and benefits, conversational agents represent promising tools that should be explored as one component of a multipronged approach for improving patient and family outcomes in serious illness.

Objective: Chronic pain is a critical public health issue affecting approximately 20% of the adult population in the United States. Given the opioid crisis, there has been an urgent focus on non-addictive pain management methods including mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Prior work has successfully used MBSR for pain management. However, ensuring longitudinal engagement in MBSR practices remains a serious challenge. In this work, we explore the utility of a voice interface to support MBSR home practice. Methods: We interviewed 10 mindfulness program facilitators to understand how such a technology might fit in the context of the MBSR class and identify potential usability issues with our prototype. We then used directed content analysis to identify key themes and sub-themes within the interview data. Results: Our findings show that facilitators supported the use of the voice interface for MBSR, particularly for individuals with limited motor function. Facilitators also highlighted the unique affordances of voice interfaces, including perceived social presence, to support sustained engagement. Conclusion: We demonstrate the acceptability of a voice interface to support home practice for MBSR participants among trained mindfulness facilitators. Based on our findings, we outline design recommendations for technologies aiming to provide longitudinal support for mindfulness-based interventions. Future work should further these efforts toward making non-addictive pain management interventions accessible and efficacious for a wide audience of users.