Free Living Activity Calibration

The purpose of this study is to test how well small, wearable devices called accelerometers measure activity levels. These have been tested in lab settings, but now we want to see how well they work in the real world.


Who is eligible to participate?

Participants will be included in the current study if they are 18+ years, can ambulate on their own and been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Arthritis, suffered a Stroke, have a upper or lower body movement impairment or who are low functioning. Exclusion from the current study will include uncontrolled high blood pressure, those who are wheelchair reliant, assistive device reliant, diagnosed cognitive impairment or inability to follow study procedures such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.


How much time is required for participation?

This research study will consist of four meetings with the first at UWM and the other 3 in your home for 2-3 hours each. The first visit will take place at our the Physical Activity & Health Research lab.


What will I be asked to do if I participate in the study?

The first visit will involve the completion of a questionnaire regarding health, measures of height, weight, and resting heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, you will complete a functional and strength test as well as walking tests. Further, you will wear a few monitors on the body at the hips, thigh, and wrists and also a wearable camera on the body as you complete various activities of daily living in the home or senior center while we monitor and record what you do for 2 hours. We will complete this session a total of 3 different times in the home or at the senior center. Lastly, you will wear 4 monitors for 7 days between the visits, as well as a camera for one of the seven days, so we can get an idea of how active and sedentary you are followed by a two surveys assessing the amount of pain you have been feeling and how active you are.


Will I receive any benefit if I participate in the study?

We will provide information on height, weight, resting blood pressure and heart rate. Further, you will receive a $25 gift card after successfully completing each visit and monitoring period for a total of $125.

Older couple cooking together