This is the author manuscript accepted for publication and has undergone full peer review but has not been through the copyediting, typesetting, pagination and proofreading process, which may lead to differences between this version and the Version of Record. Please cite this article as doi: 10.1002/cpns.95.

Augmenting the physical strength of a human operator during unpredictable human-directed (volitional) movements is a relevant capability for several proposed exoskeleton applications, including mobility augmentation, manual material handling, and tool operation. Unlike controllers and augmentation systems designed for repetitive tasks (e.g., walking), we approach physical strength augmentation by a task-agnostic method of force amplification—using force/torque sensors at the human–machine interface to estimate the human task force, and then amplifying it with the exoskeleton. We deploy an amplification controller that is integrated into a complete whole-body control framework for controlling exoskeletons that includes human-led foot transitions, inequality constraints, and a computationally efficient prioritization. A powered lower-body exoskeleton is used to demonstrate behavior of the control framework in a lab environment. This exoskeleton can assist the operator in lifting an unknown backpack payload while remaining fully backdrivable.

IntroductionMemory services constitute a significant part of old age psychiatry. Part of the memory assessment includes discussion of driving status as legally there is a requirement to disclose a dementia diagnosis to the DVLA (Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency). At assessment a driving assessment can be undertaken to establish whether a patient is safe to continue driving.ObjectivesTo establish if discussions regarding driving are taking place in memory assessment clinics, and if available guidance regarding dementia diagnosis and driving are followed. To then re-audit the department following dissemination of results from the initial audit.MethodsStandards set were 100% of patients would have documented discussion of driving. 60 patients were randomly selected from 423 referrals to memory assessment clinic between August 2012 and January 2013. Their electronic records were accessed and audited for evidence regarding documented discussion of driving. The same process was repeated following dissemination of results, with 40 patients records audited between March and May 2014. Data was collected from Bristol Activity of Daily Living Scale (BADLS) and trust pro-forma.ResultsPatients given a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment were excluded. Of others, 55% of patients in the first audit and 56% of patients in the second audit had documented discussions regarding driving status.ConclusionStandards were not met in either audit for a multitude of reasons, including restructuring of services. Recommendations include improvement of information collection tools and further audit, allowing for a longer length of time for implementation of changes.

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Introduction:Memory services provide assessment to patients with memory difficulties. One important topic discussed is driving. This audit looks into whether discussions surrounding driving are documented in the patient's notes.Objectives:The objective was to see if discussions are held about driving with patients at memory clinics.Aims:A similar audit was carried out in the south of the county. It was hoped that the findings and recommendations had been implemented in the North of the county, and improvements made.Methods:Standards were set that 100% of patients seen by memory services would have a documented discussion about driving at the initial and/or disclosure appointment. A period of 6 months, August 2012 to January 2013 was selected. 423 patients were referred and 60 patient's notes were randomly selected using a random integer set generator to look at.Results:We are currently in the process of collecting and analyzing results. The results will be available before the conference.Conclusions:By the time people with memory impairment access memory services they are likely to have been driving for most of their lives; it has provided them with independence and access to means. Despite this, requirements are set out by Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency UK that they must be informed when the licence holder has been diagnosed with dementia. They can suspend a licence based on their assessment, for the safety of the patient and the public. It is therefore of vital importance that these discussions are taking place.