Feasibility of a Computerized Method to Measure Quality of "Everyday" Life in Children with Neuromuscular Disorders

Abstract

Measurement of quality of life is becoming increasingly important in health care. Self-reported quality of life is the preferred method of gathering this information, but children are often excluded from this process, their input being replaced by parent-proxy report. This feasibility study tested assessment of "daily" quality-of-life by a self-reported computerized method in boys with neuromuscular disorders. To establish feasibility, the method was required to be engaging, consistent, and convenient. Ten boys, aged 9-16 years, were given a personal digital assistant (PDA) and prompted randomly, eight times/day for 1 week, to answer 19 questions about their daily experiences (including happ..