Voice-Assisted Technology for People With Parkinson's Disease Experiencing Speech and Voice Difficulties: Co-Designing Solutions Using Design Thinking

Background:
While smart speakers are emerging as a novel health care technology, people with Parkinson's Disease (PwPD) and speech and language therapists (SaLTs) have reported difficulties using smart speakers with speech and voice impairments in research. To date, PwPD have identified frustration with having to repeat themselves to be understood, devices timing out before they had finished speaking, and being unable to have a conversation with smart speakers. SaLTs have reported technical and practical challenges in implementing voice-assisted technology tools. Both PwPD and SaLTs indicated a lack of knowledge about what smart speakers could do, as well as concerns about privacy and the listening nature of the devices.

Objective:
This study aims to co-design solutions that support the use of smart speakers for speech and voice difficulties experienced by PwPD.

Methods:
Based on the Design Thinking framework, a multistage design process was conducted, involving a lay steering group and 2 online co-design workshops. Twenty participants, including PwPD, carers, SaLTs, design and technology experts, and third-sector staff, collaborated during the co-design workshops. The ideate phase included brainstorming and ranking, and conventional content analysis was used to specify prototypes.

Results:
Two main prototypes were created: (1) education and guidance, including privacy and therapeutic usage guides for PwPD and SaLTs to address troubleshooting and delivery considerations; and (2) new speech and language therapy (SLT)–specific features for smart speakers. Participants provided feedback on their experiences of co-design, highlighting feeling valued, the balance of perspectives, and making improvement suggestions. Feedback aligned with the UK standards for public involvement.

Conclusions:
Smart speakers could enhance accessibility, therapy engagement, and long-term speech outcomes, offering scalable, cost-effective solutions to support SLT services, patient independence, and reduced service demand. Smart speaker solutions with a SLT focus enable PwPD to self-manage speech and voice difficulties at home and reinforce therapy gains between clinic visits. Co-designed with users, these prototypes are intended to address health disparities and relieve pressure on SLT services, offering a scalable and sustainable solution that enhances efficiency and supports ongoing rehabilitation within health care systems.