Apparauts and method for providing customized physical activity program for dementia prevention
Patent Information
- Application Number
- KR1020250031651
- Authority / Receiving Office
- KR · KR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-18
Smart Images

Figure PAT00001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technology Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for the prevention of dementia. Background Technology
[0002] As the aging society accelerates, the importance of preventing and managing cognitive decline, such as dementia, is increasing. Cognitive decline and dementia not only lower an individual's quality of life but also lead to social and economic burdens. Physical activity is known as an effective non-pharmacological intervention for preventing cognitive decline, and in particular, aerobic exercise is reported to help improve cognitive function through increased cerebral blood flow and neuroprotective effects.
[0003] However, most conventional dementia prevention programs have been developed to provide standardized, uniform exercise programs. These programs had limitations in that they failed to adequately consider individual characteristics such as the participants' physical fitness levels, cognitive status, and health risk factors. Furthermore, most programs consisted primarily of simple, repetitive movements, lacking cognitive stimulation and making it difficult to selectively reinforce specific cognitive domains.
[0004] Furthermore, conventional programs lacked systematic evaluation and feedback systems following physical activity participation, and the difficulty level was not properly adjusted according to the participants' performance levels and changes, making it difficult to expect optimized intervention effects for each individual. In addition, since most programs proceed with the same content for a fixed period, there are limitations in maintaining participants' motivation and providing continuous cognitive stimulation.
[0005] Furthermore, existing cognitive enhancement programs separate physical activity and cognitive training, making it difficult to achieve integrated effects. There is a lack of integrated programs capable of simultaneously yielding physiological benefits through physical activity and neurocognitive benefits through cognitive training. Additionally, the limited availability of objective methods to measure performance presents a problem in that it is difficult to quantitatively evaluate participants' compliance and accuracy.
[0006] The technology forming the background of the present invention is disclosed in Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2023-0072218. The problem to be solved
[0007] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the aforementioned conventional technology by providing a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention that determines an optimized intervention level by comprehensively considering the subject's physical fitness level, health risk factors, and cognitive function status, and provides a program tailored to that level.
[0008] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the aforementioned conventional technology by providing a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention that can selectively strengthen specific cognitive areas, such as memory, visuospatial ability, and frontal lobe / executive function, according to the characteristics of cognitive decline of the subject.
[0009] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the aforementioned conventional technology by providing a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention, which can establish a feedback system capable of measuring the subject's compliance and accuracy through an objective evaluation system after the physical activity program is performed and dynamically adjusting the program difficulty based on this.
[0010] However, the technical problems that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve are not limited to the technical problems described above, and other technical problems may exist. means of solving the problem
[0011] As a technical means for achieving the above-mentioned technical task, a method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: (a) a step of setting a basic level corresponding to a subject based on initial evaluation information regarding the subject's physical fitness level; (b) a step of determining a final intervention level from the basic level based on the results of evaluating the subject's vascular risk factors and cognitive function level; and (c) a step of assigning a physical activity program corresponding to the final intervention level as a target program and obtaining information on the subject's activity performance regarding the target program.
[0012] In addition, a method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention may include (d) a step of adjusting the target program based on the results of evaluating the compliance and accuracy of the subject after participating in the target program based on the activity performance information.
[0013] Additionally, step (d) above may re-evaluate the physical fitness level after participation in the target program and compare the re-evaluated physical fitness level with the basic level to update the final intervention level associated with the target program.
[0014] In addition, the above-mentioned target program may be provided for the subject to participate during a pre-set execution period.
[0015] Additionally, in step (d) above, the evaluation of compliance and accuracy may be performed whenever a preset reference period elapses during the performance period.
[0016] Additionally, step (c) above may assign the target program including a cognitive domain reinforcement program according to the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject included in the cognitive function level.
[0017] In addition, the above-mentioned cognitive area enhancement program may include at least one of a memory enhancement program, a visuospatial ability enhancement program, and a frontal lobe / executive function enhancement program.
[0018] In addition, the above-mentioned cognitive decline characteristics can be evaluated by calculating the Z-scores for each cognitive domain of the subject using the cognitive function test (Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery, SNSB) and identifying the cognitive domains where the calculated Z-scores are below a preset threshold value.
[0019] Additionally, the above step (c) may include a step of scheduling a learning and repetition schedule based on a connected movement that constitutes a physical activity associated with the target program.
[0020] Additionally, the above step (d) may include a step of calculating the compliance based on the ratio of time during which the body movement of the subject participating in the target program is confirmed to be greater than a preset standard, and a step of calculating the accuracy by evaluating the degree of agreement of major joint angles by comparing the subject's skeleton data with a preset standard posture for the target program.
[0021] In addition, the above vascular risk factors may include at least one of the subject's underlying disease information, drinking status information, and smoking status information.
[0022] Meanwhile, a device for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a physical fitness level evaluation unit that sets a basic level corresponding to the subject based on initial evaluation information regarding the subject's physical fitness level, an intervention level evaluation unit that determines a final intervention level from the basic level based on the results of evaluating the subject's vascular risk factors and cognitive function level, a program assignment unit that assigns a physical activity program corresponding to the final intervention level as a target program, and an activity data collection unit that obtains information on the subject's activity performance regarding the target program.
[0023] In addition, a device for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a program management unit that adjusts the target program based on the results of evaluating the compliance and accuracy of the subject after participating in the target program based on the activity performance information.
[0024] In addition, the program management unit may re-evaluate the physical fitness level after participation in the target program and update the final intervention level associated with the target program by comparing the re-evaluated physical fitness level with the basic level.
[0025] In addition, the program management unit may perform an evaluation of the compliance and accuracy whenever a preset standard period elapses during the execution period.
[0026] In addition, the program assignment unit may assign the target program including a cognitive domain reinforcement program according to the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject included in the cognitive function level.
[0027] In addition, the program assignment unit can schedule learning and repetition schedules based on connected movements that constitute physical activity linked to the target program.
[0028] Additionally, the program management unit may include a compliance evaluation unit that calculates the compliance based on the ratio of time confirmed to be when the physical movement of the subject participating in the target program is greater than or equal to a preset standard, and an accuracy evaluation unit that calculates the accuracy by evaluating the degree of agreement of major joint angles by comparing the subject's skeleton data with a preset standard posture for the target program.
[0029] The means for solving the problem described above are merely exemplary and should not be interpreted as intended to limit the present invention. In addition to the exemplary embodiments described above, additional embodiments may exist in the drawings and the detailed description of the invention. Effects of the invention
[0030] According to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present invention, it is possible to provide a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention that determines an optimized intervention level by comprehensively considering the subject's physical fitness level, health risk factors, and cognitive function status, and provides a program suitable thereto.
[0031] According to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present invention, a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention can be provided, which can provide a customized program capable of selectively strengthening specific cognitive areas such as memory, visuospatial ability, and frontal lobe / executive function according to the characteristics of cognitive decline of the subject.
[0032] According to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present invention, it is possible to provide a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention that can establish a feedback system capable of measuring the subject's compliance and accuracy through an objective evaluation system after the performance of the physical activity program and dynamically adjusting the program difficulty based on this.
[0033] According to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present institution, by providing a program that integrates physical activity and cognitive training, an efficient intervention method can be presented that simultaneously achieves physical and cognitive effects.
[0034] According to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present institution, by selectively providing specialized reinforcement programs tailored to the characteristics of decline in each cognitive domain, it is possible to effectively compensate for the subject's cognitive weaknesses and contribute to the improvement of overall cognitive function; furthermore, by dynamically adjusting the difficulty of the program through a systematic evaluation and feedback system, it is possible to continuously provide interventions optimized for the subject's change and development.
[0035] According to the aforementioned means of solving the problem of the present institution, the motivation and persistence of participation of the subjects can be enhanced through a physical activity dance program, which is an enjoyable activity utilizing music, rhythm, and choreography.
[0036] According to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present invention, a dual effect of improving physical health and cognitive function can be achieved by combining physical activity and cognitive training, and this can be utilized as an efficient intervention method for dementia prevention.
[0037] According to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present institution, the quality level of program performance can be guaranteed through an objective compliance and accuracy measurement system, thereby increasing the reliability of the intervention effect.
[0038] However, the effects obtainable from this invention are not limited to those described above, and other effects may exist. Brief explanation of the drawing
[0039] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a dementia prevention system based on a physical activity program according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary final intervention level that is customized for the subject. Figure 3 is a diagram exemplifying detailed design factors including the level, intensity, and cognitive sub-reinforcement elements of a physical activity program. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the types of target programs assigned to the target individual. Figures 5a and 5b are diagrams illustrating an exemplary mediation schedule applied when assigning a target program. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a device for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a detailed configuration diagram of the program management unit of a device for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention
[0040] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings to enable those skilled in the art to easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.
[0041] Throughout this specification, when a part is described as being "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected," but also cases where they are "electrically connected" or "indirectly connected" with other elements interposed between them.
[0042] Throughout the entire specification, when a component is described as being located "on," "on top," "on top," "under," "on bottom," or "on bottom" of another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component but also cases where another component exists between the two components.
[0043] Throughout this specification, when a part is described as "comprising" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.
[0044] The present invention relates to a device and method for providing a customized physical activity program for the prevention of dementia.
[0045] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a dementia prevention system based on a physical activity program according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, a dementia prevention system (10) based on a physical activity program according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a device (100) for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as the 'program providing device (100)'), a camera module (200), a user terminal (300), and a database (400).
[0047] The program providing device (100), camera module (200), user terminal (300), and database (400) can communicate with each other through a network (20). The network (20) refers to a connection structure that enables information exchange between each node, such as terminals and servers. Examples of such a network (20) include, but are not limited to, a 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) network, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network, a 5G network, a WIMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access) network, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a Wireless LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), a PAN (Personal Area Network), a Wi-Fi network, a Bluetooth network, a satellite broadcasting network, an analog broadcasting network, and a DMB (Digital Multimedia Broadcasting) network.
[0048] The user terminal (300) can be any type of wireless communication device, such as a smartphone, smartpad, tablet PC, PCS (Personal Communication System), GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), PHS (Personal Handyphone System), PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), IMT (International Mobile Telecommunication)-2000, CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access)-2000, W-CDMA (W-Code Division Multiple Access), Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet) terminal.
[0049] Meanwhile, in the description of the embodiment of the present invention, the camera module (200) may be a device or apparatus for photographing a subject performing an action to obtain information on the performance of an activity for a target program in which the subject participates, or for obtaining image data to evaluate compliance, accuracy, etc. after participation in the target program.
[0050] The camera module (200) may include an RGB camera, a depth sensor, an infrared camera, etc., and can capture the subject's movements in real time to extract skeleton data and analyze the subject's posture. In addition, the camera module (200) can measure the subject's range of motion, speed of movement, and accuracy of motion, and provide data necessary to objectively evaluate the effectiveness of the target program. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the camera module (200) may be mounted as a sub-component of the user terminal (300).
[0051] Additionally, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the database (400) may be a server or device for storing initial evaluation information of a subject, vascular risk factor data, cognitive function level evaluation information, various parameters for operating a physical activity program, history of participation in the subject program, information related to changes in the subject due to participation in the subject program, etc.
[0052] Specifically, the database (400) can manage physical fitness levels, cognitive function test results, history of changes in intervention levels, and compliance and accuracy evaluation results for each subject in a time-series manner, and can be used to analyze the long-term development trends of the subject and verify the effectiveness of the customized intervention program. In addition, the database (400) can systematically manage information regarding the content, difficulty level, and cognitive enhancement elements of various physical activity dance programs to store reference data for program assignment and adjustment.
[0053] Below, the specific functions and operations of the program providing device (100) will be described in detail.
[0054] First, the program providing device (100) can set a basic level corresponding to the subject based on initial evaluation information regarding the subject's physical fitness level.
[0055] In this regard, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the term 'basic level' may refer to an initial stage level established by considering only initial assessment information regarding the subject's physical fitness level. The basic level serves as a reference level that acts as a starting point when the subject participates in a physical activity program, and can serve as a basis for determining exercise intensity and complexity suitable for the subject's physical condition.
[0056] For example, the basic level is set based on the results of the subject's TUG (Timed Up and Go), Sit to stand, and 2m walk tests, and can be adjusted according to the results of the assessment of vascular risk factors and cognitive function level to be confirmed as the final intervention level.
[0057] Specifically, the program providing device (100) can perform TUG (Timed Up and Go), Sit to stand, and 2m walk tests to evaluate the physical fitness level of the subject. The TUG test measures the time taken to stand up from a chair, travel back and forth a predetermined distance, and then sit down again, and the results can be classified into 1-2 seconds (higher fitness), 3 seconds (middle fitness), and 4-5 seconds (lower fitness). The Sit to stand test evaluates the ability to repeat the motion of standing up and sitting down from a chair, and likewise can be classified into 1-2 seconds, 3 seconds, and 4-5 seconds. The 2m walk test evaluates walking ability by measuring the time it takes for the subject to walk a distance of 2 meters, and the results can be classified into the same grading system.
[0058] In summary, the program providing device (100) can perform multiple tests to evaluate the physical fitness level of the subject and set the subject's basic level by considering a combination of the results of the multiple tests.
[0059] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can determine the final intervention level from a basic level set according to the results of evaluating the subject's vascular risk factors and cognitive function level.
[0060] In this regard, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the 'final intervention level' may refer to a customized intervention stage finally determined by reflecting the results of the assessment of vascular risk factors and cognitive function levels in the subject's basic level. The final intervention level serves as an indicator for determining the difficulty, intensity, and complexity of the physical activity program to be actually provided to the subject, and can be understood as a result that comprehensively considers the subject's physical and cognitive characteristics.
[0061] For example, determining the final intervention level by adjusting upward from the basic level implies that the subject's health risk is high and requires more active and intensified intervention, whereas conversely, determining the final intervention level by adjusting downward from the basic level may mean providing a program of low difficulty suitable for execution, taking into account the subject's cognitive / physical abilities and vascular risk.
[0062] For example, the program providing device (100) can evaluate the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject by using a cognitive function test (Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery, SNSB) to calculate Z-scores for each cognitive domain of the subject and identifying cognitive domains where the calculated Z-score is below a preset threshold value.
[0063] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the level of cognitive function considered to evaluate the final intervention level of the subject may be evaluated, for example, through the Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SOB). The program providing device (100) may start at the assigned basic level without adjustment if the CDR-SOB is 1.5 or lower, maintain the basic level but increase the number of program executions if it is greater than 1.5 and less than 2.5, and start at a level lowered from the basic level if it is 2.5 or higher.
[0064] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can determine the final intervention level based on vascular risk factors including at least one of the subject's underlying disease information, drinking status information, and smoking status information.
[0065] In this regard, underlying disease information may include information regarding vascular risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia (dyslipidemia), and obesity. Diabetes may be defined as taking insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents, hypertension as taking antihypertensive drugs, hyperlipidemia as taking drugs to lower blood lipids, and obesity as having a body mass index (BMI) of 25 kg / m² or higher. If two or more of these underlying diseases apply, the program providing device (100) may determine the final intervention level by raising the subject's basic level.
[0066] Additionally, information on whether alcohol consumption has occurred may include information regarding the amount and frequency of alcohol intake of the subject. Specifically, consuming 170g or more of alcohol per week may be considered significant drinking. If one or more of drinking or smoking are present, the program providing device (100) may determine the final intervention level by raising the subject's baseline level. This may be an approach to offset the effects of these risk factors through more active intervention, taking into account the negative impact of alcohol intake on cognitive function. Since lifestyle-related risk factors such as drinking are modifiable elements, the program may be provided along with education on lifestyle improvement during the intervention process.
[0067] In addition, information on smoking status may include information regarding the subject's smoking history and current smoking status. Specifically, a person may be determined to be a current smoker if they have smoked at least 100 cigarettes in their lifetime and have smoked at least one cigarette in the past month. As previously mentioned, the program providing device (100) can determine the final intervention level by raising the subject's basic level if one or more of drinking or smoking apply. Since smoking can negatively affect cognitive function by reducing cerebral blood flow and increasing oxidative stress, providing a more intensive intervention program to smokers can be expected to have an effect that offsets these negative effects.
[0068] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary final intervention level that is customized for the subject.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 2, the final intervention level customized for the subject is illustrated as an example. The program providing device (100) disclosed herein can classify the results of each of the TUG, Sit to stand, and 2m walk performed to initially evaluate the subject's physical fitness level into an adaptation stage (Level 1), an improvement stage (Level 2), and a maintenance stage (Level 3).
[0070] Additionally, the program providing device (100) may set the final intervention level differently for each subject whose physical fitness level is evaluated in a combination including at least one of T3 (TUG Level 3), S3 (Sit to stand Level 3), and W3 (2m walk Level 3) (i.e., a subject who has at least one item corresponding to the maintenance stage), a subject whose physical fitness level is evaluated in a combination including two or more of T2, S2, and W2 without Level 3, and a subject whose physical fitness level is evaluated in other combinations (where the adaptation stage is predominant) depending on the combination of evaluation results.
[0071] For example, a subject corresponding to the first combination may be assigned to have the target program start at Level 1-A, a subject corresponding to the second combination may be assigned to have the target program start at Level 1-B, and a subject corresponding to the third combination (other combinations) may be assigned to have the target program start at Level 2-A or 2-B, but is not limited thereto. Thus, the program providing device (100) disclosed herein can set a basic level and a final intervention level that are differentiated according to the physical fitness level of the subject.
[0072] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can assign a physical activity program corresponding to the determined final intervention level as a target program for the subject to participate in.
[0073] Figure 3 is a diagram exemplifying detailed design factors including the level, intensity, and cognitive sub-reinforcement elements of a physical activity program.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 3, the physical activity program disclosed herein may include various detailed design factors such as dance genre, exercise composition, classification of exercise program levels, classification according to cognitive sub-factors, and intensity of the exercise program. Dance genres may include aerobics, K-pop, Latin dance, Korean dance, etc., and difficulty levels may be classified from Level 1 to Level 3 for each genre. Participants may choose from these various genres according to their final intervention level, thereby increasing interest and motivation to participate.
[0075] Additionally, referring to FIG. 3, the physical activity program disclosed herein can be classified into multiple levels based on the complexity of the movements. For example, 'Level 1' consists of one movement and provides the simplest choreography, 'Level 2' consists of one or two movements and has a medium level of complexity, and 'Level 3' consists of two or more movements and includes the most complex choreography. This level classification is based on the number of different movements included within a piece consisting of a total of 32 beats, that is, while 8 beats are repeated four times, and the difficulty level can be adjusted to suit the cognitive and learning abilities of the subject.
[0076] Additionally, referring to Fig. 3, physical activity programs can be classified into multiple types based on exercise intensity. For example, 'Type A' may be a type that provides low-intensity physical activity by applying low-to-middle impact movements during break times and reducing the number of choreography repetitions. 'Type B' may provide higher-intensity exercise by applying high-impact movements during break times to increase the heart rate. This classification of intensity is intended to provide an appropriate exercise load tailored to the subject's fitness level and health condition, thereby enabling safe and effective intervention.
[0077] Additionally, referring to Fig. 3, the target program may include multiple types of specialized programs classified based on cognitive sub-factors evaluated for the subject. A memory (M) enhancement program may induce the subject to perform movements without an instructor's demonstration, a visuospatial (V) enhancement program may emphasize changes in direction and variations in movement size, and a frontal / executive (F) enhancement program may be designed to include elements such as the addition of foot movements. These specialized programs for each cognitive domain are provided selectively to suit the characteristics of the subject's cognitive decline, thereby having the effect of intensively strengthening vulnerable cognitive domains.
[0078] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the program providing device (100) may assign a target program including a cognitive domain enhancement program according to the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject included in the information regarding the subject's cognitive function level.
[0079] Specifically, the program providing device (100) can assign a target program including a cognitive area enhancement program that includes at least one of a memory enhancement program, a visuospatial ability enhancement program, and a frontal lobe / executive function enhancement program.
[0080] More specifically, the memory enhancement program (M) may include tasks in which the participant performs a movement based solely on the name of the movement, without a demonstration by the instructor. This method can train the participant's ability to remember and retrieve previously learned movements. For example, the instructor provides only verbal instructions such as "step sideways," "raise arms," or "turn," and the participant must recall and perform the previously learned movement. In this process, the activation of short-term and long-term memory, the use of working memory, and memory retrieval processes can be intensively trained, making it particularly effective for participants with significant memory decline.
[0081] In addition, the visuospatial ability enhancement program (V) may include elements that diversify the spatial characteristics of movement, such as changing direction and alternating large and small movements. Specifically, visuospatial awareness and processing abilities can be trained through movements moving forward, backward, left, and right within space, movements utilizing vertical space (sit-and-stand, raising and lowering arms, etc.), and movements in diagonal directions. Furthermore, the ability to control the size of movement within space can be improved by having the same movement alternate between large and small ranges. These elements can effectively improve spatial perception, sense of direction, and visual-motor coordination in subjects with impaired visuospatial ability.
[0082] Furthermore, the frontal lobe / executive function enhancement program (F) can be designed to include elements that apply set-shifting ability to lower body strengthening movements and movement sequences. Lower body strengthening movements include leg lifts, knee bends, and standing on tiptoes, which improve balance and lower body strength while requiring concentration and attention. Additionally, the program can be structured to alternate different types of movements by applying the TMT-B (Trail Making Test-B) principle to the movement sequence, similar to connecting numbers and letters. Through this, various executive functions related to the frontal lobe, such as cognitive flexibility, working memory, inhibitory control, and planning ability, can be trained, making it an effective intervention for individuals with impaired frontal lobe / executive function.
[0083] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the types of target programs assigned to the target individual.
[0084] Referring to Figure 4, various types of target programs that can be assigned to the subject in a customized manner can be examined. Various dance genres, such as aerobics, Latin dance, K-pop, and Korean dance, are classified into three difficulty levels from Level 1 to Level 3, and each level can be further subdivided into A (Basic) and B (Basic). Additionally, each physical activity program can be provided in versions that enhance memory (M), visuospatial ability (V), and frontal lobe / executive function (F), allowing for a total of 45 possible combinations. For example, 'E1-A' refers to the Aerobics Level 1-A Basic program, and 'E1-A-M' refers to the Aerobics Level 1-A Memory Enhancement program. These various program types can be selectively assigned according to the subject's final intervention level and characteristics of cognitive decline.
[0085] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can schedule learning and repetition schedules based on connected movements that form physical activities linked to the target program.
[0086] In this regard, FIGS. 5a and 5b are diagrams illustrating an exemplary mediation schedule applied when assigning a target program. Specifically, FIG. 5a illustrates an exemplary mediation schedule when assigning a basic program, and FIG. 5b illustrates an exemplary mediation schedule when assigning a specific area reinforcement program (cognitive area reinforcement program).
[0087] Referring to Fig. 5a, the intervention program can be designed, for example, to structure the learning and completion of a single work (choreography) over three weeks. Specifically, in Week 1, the first four sections of the work (P-1, P-2, P-3, P-4) are learned, and on the weekend, they can be connected and repeated (W1D1+W1D2, W1D3+W1D4, W1D1-4). In Week 2, the second four sections of the work (Post-1, Post-2, Post-3, Post-4) are learned, and similarly, connected and repeated (W2D1+W2D2, W2D3+W2D4, W2D1-4) can be performed on the weekend. In Week 3, the previously learned first and second sections are integrated to complete the entire work, and on the last day, a performance evaluation (TEST) can be conducted. This intervention period is 12 weeks in total, and a total of 4 cycles can be conducted with 3-week intervals, and a total of 4 choreographic works can be learned and performed during one cycle.
[0088] Referring to Fig. 5b, the specific area reinforcement program has a basic structure similar to the basic program, but differs in that cognitive area reinforcement elements (M / V / F) are added in the third week. Specifically, on Day 1 and Day 4 of the third week, the content of the first week is repeated; on Day 3 and Day 4, the content of the second week is repeated; and on Day 5 and Day 6, the entire work can be repeated. Additionally, cognitive reinforcement elements can be applied in the third week. For example, in the case of the M (memory) reinforcement program, a task involving performing movements without an instructor's demonstration is added in the third week; in the case of the V (visual-spatial ability) reinforcement program, elements such as changing direction or varying movement size are added; and in the case of the F (frontal lobe / executive function) reinforcement program, elements such as adding foot movements are applied. Like the basic program, this specific area reinforcement program can also be based on a three-week unit.
[0089] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can obtain information on the subject's activity performance regarding the assigned target program. For example, the program providing device (100) can extract skeleton data by capturing the subject's movements in real time through a camera module (200). The skeleton data includes information on the subject's joint positions and angles, thereby allowing for an objective evaluation of the accuracy of the movements.
[0090] As another example, the program providing device (100) can collect biometric data such as the subject's heart rate, calorie consumption, and activity level through a wearable device (not shown) worn or attached to the subject's body while participating in the target program, and can monitor exercise intensity and effects through this. As yet another example, the program providing device (100) can collect participation information such as the subject's attendance history, program participation time, and whether the program has been completed, as well as subjective evaluation information from the instructor, as activity performance information.
[0091] Activity performance information collected through these various channels can be analyzed integrally and utilized to evaluate the participants' compliance and accuracy, and can subsequently serve as a basis for program adjustments.
[0092] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can evaluate the compliance and accuracy of the subject after participation in the target program based on the collected activity performance information.
[0093] Specifically, the program providing device (100) can calculate compliance based on the ratio of time during which the physical movement of a subject participating in the target program is confirmed to be greater than or equal to a preset standard.
[0094] More specifically, compliance is an indicator used to determine how faithfully a subject performs physical activity while executing movements. Compliance can be calculated by defining "no physical movement at all" as 0% and determining the ratio of time with significant movement to the total program time. Specifically, compliance can be measured by determining that physical movement within the screen is 5% or more as significant movement.
[0095] For example, if the playback time of the main exercise program is 10 minutes and the subject's physical movement is confirmed to be 5% or more during 8 minutes of that time, the compliance rate can be calculated as 80%. The program providing device (100) may determine that the corresponding session and program have been faithfully performed if the compliance rate is 70% or higher, and this can be an important criterion for determining whether to grant eligibility for program level adjustment.
[0096] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can calculate accuracy by evaluating the degree of agreement of major joint angles by comparing a preset reference posture for the target program with the subject's skeleton data acquired while the subject participates in the target program.
[0097] More specifically, accuracy is an indicator that evaluates how accurately a subject performs the movements presented in the program, and can be measured by setting the instructor's (trainer's) posture as the reference posture (A) and comparing it with the subject's skeleton value (B).
[0098] Specifically, the degree of agreement can be calculated by comparing the angles of major joints, such as the armpit, elbow, pelvis, and knee, with the instructor's video frame by frame and calculating the cosine, and the final accuracy can be calculated by averaging the frame-by-frame comparison scores for each movement, which can be converted into a scoring between 1 and 3 points (poor, good, great).
[0099] For example, if the cosine similarity is 0.9 or higher, it can be evaluated as 'great (3 points)', if it is 0.7 or higher but less than 0.9, it can be evaluated as 'good (2 points)', and if it is less than 0.7, it can be evaluated as 'poor (1 point)'. The program providing device (100) may grant program level adjustment qualification if the accuracy score is an average of 2 points (good) or higher, that is, if the accuracy is 80% or higher.
[0100] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the program providing device (100) can repeatedly perform evaluations of compliance and accuracy whenever a preset reference period elapses during the execution period in which the target program is provided, taking into consideration that the target program is provided for the subject to participate in during a preset execution period.
[0101] Additionally, the program providing device (100) can re-evaluate the physical fitness level of the subject after participation in the target program and compare the re-evaluated physical fitness level with the previously set basic level to update the final intervention level associated with the target program.
[0102] Specifically, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the program providing device (100) can re-evaluate the physical fitness level after participating in the target program to calculate a re-evaluation level and update the final intervention level by comparing it with the existing default level. If the default level and the re-evaluation level are the same, the subject may switch from the version A program previously performed to version B of the same program (e.g., E1-A → E1-B), or switch from version B program to a different type of version B of the same level (e.g., E1-B → P1-B). Conversely, if the re-evaluation level is improved compared to the default level, the subject may switch to a higher level of the same work (e.g., E1-A → E2-A). Conversely, if the re-evaluation level is lower than the default level, the subject may switch to a lower level of the same work (e.g., E1-B → E1-A, E2-A → E1-A). In this way, the program providing device (100) can dynamically adjust the final intervention level according to the subject's physical condition change, so that it can always provide an intervention optimized for the subject's current condition.
[0103] More specifically, the program providing device (100) may grant program adjustment qualification and conduct a physical fitness re-evaluation if the subject passes the evaluation criteria after a choreography performance evaluation conducted at the time when one cycle of the target program ends (e.g., if one cycle is 3 weeks, the 21st day, which is the last day of the 3rd week). Additionally, the program providing device (100) may perform target program assignment for a subsequent second cycle based on the results of the physical fitness re-evaluation. Specifically, the program providing device (100) may determine (reassign) the target program to be provided in the next cycle by adjusting three elements—program type (genre), intensity (Type A or Type B within the same difficulty level (level)), and difficulty level (Level 1 to 3)—based on the result of comparing the initially evaluated physical fitness level (basic level) with the re-evaluation level.
[0104] According to one embodiment of the present invention, program adjustments based on the aforementioned physical condition change can be classified into three cases. First, when the basic level and the re-evaluation level are the same (when physical condition is maintained without improvement or decline), the program providing device (100) can adjust the intensity by assigning Type B of the existing program to a subject who has previously performed Type A program, and can change the genre by assigning a different Type B of the same difficulty level (Level 1, 2, 3) to a subject who has previously performed Type B.
[0105] As another example, if the re-evaluation level is higher than the basic level (if physical strength is improved), the program providing device (100) can adjust the difficulty by assigning it to a higher level of the same genre. However, exceptionally, if the target program previously performed by the subject was already at the highest difficulty level of Level 3-A, the intensity can be adjusted to Level 3-B, and if it was already at the highest difficulty level of Level 3-B, it can be reassigned to another genre of the same level.
[0106] As another example, if the re-evaluation level is lower than the basic level (if physical strength has decreased), the program providing device (100) can reassign the target program to a lower version of the same work. In this case, if the existing level was B with high intensity, the intensity is first adjusted to A (e.g., Aerobics 1-B → Aerobics 1-A), and if the existing level was A with basic intensity, the difficulty can be lowered (e.g., Aerobics 2-A → Aerobics 1-A). Through this fine adjustment mechanism, the program providing device (100) can continuously provide optimized intervention tailored to the changes in the subject's physical condition.
[0107] Meanwhile, the program providing device (100) can adjust the target program that the subject will subsequently participate in by using the evaluation result of at least one of compliance and accuracy based on the subject's participation in the target program.
[0108] Specifically, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the program providing device (100) may determine whether to adjust the target program by comprehensively considering compliance and accuracy. For example, eligibility for program level adjustment may be granted only when compliance is 75% or higher and accuracy is 80% or higher. This is based on the principle that difficulty adjustment is meaningful when the subject has sufficient participation in the program (compliance) and the ability to perform actions accurately (accuracy). If compliance is 75% or higher but accuracy is less than 80%, the subject may be given the opportunity to improve action accuracy by performing additional programs of the same level. Conversely, if accuracy is 80% or higher but compliance is less than 75%, program adjustment to enhance the subject's motivation to participate (e.g., changing to a program of the same level in a different genre) may be considered. In this way, the program providing device (100) can systematically adjust the target program according to objective evaluation criteria.
[0109] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the program providing device (100) may grant program level adjustment qualification to a subject who has passed a performance level evaluation conducted at the time when one cycle of the target program ends. This evaluation is intended to verify whether the subject can sufficiently learn and perform the entire work, and the subject must satisfy both the compliance and accuracy criteria mentioned above to pass. If the evaluation is passed, a physical re-test is conducted to compare with the existing physical level, and the level can be adjusted according to the results. If the evaluation is not passed, that is, if the compliance is less than 70% or the accuracy is not sufficiently high, the subject may undergo a re-evaluation after performing the same program for an additional week. This concept of 'level adjustment qualification' can serve as an important mechanism that allows the subject to gradually develop while maintaining a sense of accomplishment and confidence by adjusting the difficulty level only when the subject is sufficiently prepared.
[0110] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a device for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0111] Referring to FIG. 6, the program providing device (100) may include a physical fitness level evaluation unit (110), an intervention level evaluation unit (120), a program assignment unit (130), an activity data collection unit (140), and a program management unit (150).
[0112] The physical fitness level evaluation unit (110) can set a basic level corresponding to the subject based on initial evaluation information regarding the subject's physical fitness level.
[0113] The intervention level evaluation unit (120) can determine the final intervention level from the basic level set according to the results of evaluating the subject's vascular risk factors and cognitive function level.
[0114] For example, the intervention level evaluation unit (120) can evaluate the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject by using the cognitive function test (Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery, SNSB) to calculate the subject's Z-score for each cognitive domain and identifying the cognitive domain where the calculated Z-score is below a preset threshold value.
[0115] Additionally, the intervention level evaluation unit (120) can determine the final intervention level based on vascular risk factors including at least one of the subject's underlying disease information, drinking information, and smoking information.
[0116] The program assignment unit (130) can assign a physical activity program corresponding to the final intervention level determined by the intervention level evaluation unit (120) as a target program for the subject to participate in.
[0117] Additionally, the program assignment unit (130) can schedule learning and repetition schedules based on connected movements that form physical activities linked to the target program.
[0118] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the program assignment unit (130) may assign a target program including a cognitive domain reinforcement program according to the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject included in the cognitive function level.
[0119] Specifically, the program assignment unit (130) can assign a target program including a cognitive area enhancement program that includes at least one of a memory enhancement program, a visuospatial ability enhancement program, and a frontal lobe / executive function enhancement program.
[0120] The activity data collection unit (140) can obtain information on the activity performance of the subject for the assigned target program.
[0121] The program management department (150) can evaluate the compliance and accuracy of the subject after participation in the target program based on the collected activity performance information.
[0122] FIG. 7 is a detailed configuration diagram of the program management unit of a device for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0123] Referring to FIG. 7, the program management unit (150) may include a compliance evaluation unit (151), an accuracy evaluation unit (152), and a program reassignment unit (153).
[0124] The compliance evaluation unit (151) can calculate compliance based on the ratio of time during which the physical movement of a subject participating in the target program is confirmed to be greater than or equal to a preset standard.
[0125] The accuracy evaluation unit (152) can calculate the accuracy by evaluating the degree of agreement of major joint angles by comparing the reference posture set for the target program with the subject's skeleton data obtained while the subject participates in the target program.
[0126] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the program management unit (150) can repeatedly perform evaluations of compliance and accuracy whenever a predetermined standard period elapses during the execution period in which the target program is provided, taking into consideration that the target program is provided for the subject to participate in during a predetermined execution period.
[0127] The program re-evaluation department (153) can re-evaluate the physical fitness level of the subject after participation in the target program and compare the re-evaluated physical fitness level with the previously set basic level to update the final intervention level associated with the target program.
[0128] Additionally, the program reallocation agency (153) can adjust the target program that the subject will subsequently participate in by using the evaluation results of at least one of compliance and accuracy based on the subject's participation in the target program.
[0129] Below, based on the details described above, we will briefly examine the operation flow of the present invention.
[0130] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0131] The method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention illustrated in FIG. 8 can be performed by the program providing device (100) described above. Therefore, even if the content is omitted below, the description of the program providing device (100) can be equally applied to the description of the method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention.
[0132] Referring to FIG. 8, in step S11, the physical fitness level evaluation unit (110) can set a basic level corresponding to the subject based on (a) initial evaluation information regarding the subject's physical fitness level.
[0133] Next, in step S12, the intervention level evaluation unit (120) can determine the final intervention level from the basic level set according to the results of evaluating (b) the subject's vascular risk factors and cognitive function level.
[0134] Specifically, in step S12, the intervention level evaluation unit (120) can evaluate the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject by using the cognitive function test (Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery, SNSB) to calculate the subject's Z-score for each cognitive domain and identifying the cognitive domain where the calculated Z-score is below a preset threshold value.
[0135] Additionally, in step S12, the intervention level evaluation unit (120) can determine the final intervention level based on vascular risk factors including at least one of the subject's underlying disease information, drinking information, and smoking information.
[0136] Next, in step S13, the program assignment unit (130) can (c) assign a physical activity program corresponding to the determined final intervention level as a target program for the subject to participate in.
[0137] Additionally, in step S13, the program assignment unit (130) can schedule learning and repetition schedules based on connected movements that form physical activities linked to the target program.
[0138] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present invention, in step S13, the program assignment unit (130) may assign a target program including a cognitive domain reinforcement program according to the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject included in the cognitive function level.
[0139] Specifically, in step S13, the program assignment unit (130) may assign a target program including a cognitive area enhancement program that includes at least one of a memory enhancement program, a visuospatial ability enhancement program, and a frontal lobe / executive function enhancement program.
[0140] Next, in step S14, the activity data collection unit (140) can obtain information on the subject's activity performance for the assigned target program.
[0141] Next, in step S15, the program management department (150) can evaluate the compliance and accuracy of the subject after participation in the target program based on the collected activity performance information.
[0142] Specifically, in step S15, the compliance evaluation unit (151) can calculate compliance based on the ratio of time during which the physical movement of a subject participating in the target program is confirmed to be greater than or equal to a preset standard.
[0143] Additionally, in step S15, the accuracy evaluation unit (152) can calculate the accuracy by evaluating the degree of agreement of major joint angles by comparing a preset reference posture for the target program with the subject's skeleton data obtained while the subject participates in the target program.
[0144] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present invention, in step S15, the program management unit (150) may repeatedly perform evaluations of compliance and accuracy whenever a predetermined reference period elapses during the execution period in which the target program is provided, considering that the target program is provided for the subject to participate in for a predetermined execution period.
[0145] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present invention, in step S15, the program management unit (150) can re-evaluate the physical fitness level of the subject after participation in the target program and update the final intervention level associated with the target program by comparing the re-evaluated physical fitness level with the previously set basic level.
[0146] Next, in step S16, the program management department (150) can adjust the target program that the subject will subsequently participate in by using the evaluation results of at least one of compliance and accuracy based on the subject's participation in the target program.
[0147] In the description above, steps S11 through S16 may be further divided into additional steps or combined into fewer steps according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, some steps may be omitted as necessary, and the order of the steps may be changed.
[0148] A method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention according to one embodiment of the present invention may be implemented in the form of program instructions that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, etc., either individually or in combination. The program instructions recorded on the medium may be those specifically designed and configured for the present invention, or they may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes; optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs; magneto-optical media such as floptical disks; and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory. Examples of program instructions include machine code, such as that generated by a compiler, as well as high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The above-described hardware device may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operation of the present invention, and vice versa.
[0149] In addition, the aforementioned method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention can also be implemented in the form of a computer program or application executed by a computer stored on a recording medium.
[0150] The foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that other specific forms can be easily modified without altering the technical concept or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, each component described as a single unit may be implemented in a distributed manner, and components described as distributed may likewise be implemented in a combined form.
[0151] The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims set forth below rather than by the detailed description above, and all modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and the concept of equivalents thereof should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols
[0152] 10: Physical activity program-based dementia prevention system 100: Device providing customized physical activity programs for dementia prevention 110: Physical Fitness Level Evaluation Department 120: Arbitration Level Evaluation Department 130: Program Assignment Department 140: Activity Data Collection Unit 150: Program Management Department 151: Compliance Evaluation Department 152: Accuracy Evaluation Department 153: Program Re-government 200: Camera module 300: User terminal 400: Database 20: Network
Claims
Claim 1 A method for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention, comprising: (a) a step of setting a basic level corresponding to a subject based on initial evaluation information regarding the subject's physical fitness level; (b) a step of determining a final intervention level from the basic level based on the results of evaluating the subject's vascular risk factors and cognitive function level; and (c) a step of assigning a physical activity program corresponding to the final intervention level as a target program and obtaining information on the subject's activity performance regarding the target program. Claim 2 A method for providing a program according to claim 1, further comprising: (d) a step of adjusting the target program based on the results of evaluating the compliance and accuracy of the subject after participation in the target program based on the activity performance information. Claim 3 A method for providing a program, wherein step (d) involves re-evaluating the physical fitness level after participation in the target program and comparing the re-evaluated physical fitness level with the basic level to update the final intervention level associated with the target program. Claim 4 A method for providing a program according to paragraph 2, wherein the target program is provided for the subject to participate during a pre-set performance period, and in step (d), the evaluation of compliance and accuracy is performed whenever a pre-set standard period elapses during the performance period. Claim 5 A method for providing a program according to claim 1, wherein step (c) is to assign the target program including a cognitive domain reinforcement program according to the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject included in the cognitive function level. Claim 6 A method for providing a program according to claim 5, wherein the cognitive domain enhancement program comprises at least one of a memory enhancement program, a visuospatial ability enhancement program, and a frontal lobe / executive function enhancement program. Claim 7 A method for providing a program, wherein, in paragraph 5, the cognitive decline characteristic is evaluated by calculating the Z-score for each cognitive domain of the subject using a cognitive function test (Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery, SNSB) and identifying the cognitive domain where the calculated Z-score is less than or equal to a preset threshold value. Claim 8 A method for providing a program according to claim 1, wherein step (c) includes the step of scheduling a learning and repetition schedule based on a connected motion that forms a physical activity linked to the target program. Claim 9 A method for providing a program according to claim 2, wherein step (d) comprises: a step of calculating the compliance based on the ratio of time during which the body movement of the subject participating in the target program is confirmed to be greater than or equal to a preset standard; and a step of calculating the accuracy by evaluating the degree of agreement of major joint angles by comparing the subject's skeleton data with a preset standard posture for the target program. Claim 10 A method for providing a program according to claim 1, wherein the vascular risk factor comprises at least one of the subject's underlying disease information, drinking status information, and smoking status information. Claim 11 A program providing device for providing a customized physical activity program for dementia prevention, comprising: a physical fitness level evaluation unit that sets a basic level corresponding to a subject based on initial evaluation information regarding the subject's physical fitness level; an intervention level evaluation unit that determines a final intervention level from the basic level according to the results of evaluating the subject's vascular risk factors and cognitive function level; a program assignment unit that assigns a physical activity program corresponding to the final intervention level as a target program; and an activity data collection unit that acquires information on the subject's activity performance regarding the target program. Claim 12 A program providing device according to claim 11, further comprising a program management unit that adjusts the target program based on the results of evaluating the compliance and accuracy of the subject after participation in the target program based on the activity performance information. Claim 13 A program providing device according to claim 12, wherein the program management unit re-evaluates the physical fitness level after participation in the target program and updates the final intervention level associated with the target program by comparing the re-evaluated physical fitness level with the basic level. Claim 14 A program providing device according to claim 12, wherein the target program is provided for the subject to participate during a preset execution period, and the program management unit performs an evaluation of the compliance and accuracy whenever a preset standard period elapses during the execution period. Claim 15 A program providing device according to claim 11, wherein the program allocation unit allocates the target program including a cognitive domain enhancement program according to the cognitive decline characteristics of the subject included in the cognitive function level, wherein the cognitive domain enhancement program includes at least one of a memory enhancement program, a visuospatial ability enhancement program, and a frontal lobe / executive function enhancement program. Claim 16 A program providing device according to claim 15, wherein the above-mentioned cognitive decline characteristic is evaluated by calculating the Z-score for each cognitive domain of the subject using a cognitive function test (Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery, SNSB) and identifying the cognitive domain where the calculated Z-score is less than or equal to a preset threshold value. Claim 17 In claim 11, the program allocation unit is a program providing device that schedules learning and repetition schedules based on connected movements forming physical activities linked to the target program. Claim 18 A program providing device according to claim 12, wherein the program management unit comprises: a compliance evaluation unit that calculates the compliance based on the ratio of time confirmed to be when the body movement of the subject participating in the target program is performed above a preset standard; and an accuracy evaluation unit that calculates the accuracy by evaluating the degree of agreement of major joint angles by comparing the subject's skeleton data with a preset standard posture for the target program.
