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Piekema L, Ten Brug A, Waninge A, van der Putten A. From assistive to inclusive? A systematic review of the uses and effects of technology to support people with pervasive support needs. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2024; 37:e13181. [PMID: 38369310 DOI: 10.1111/jar.13181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although particular technologies can enhance the quality of life (QoL) of people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (we use the term pervasive support needs), their objectives and outcomes are understudied. A systematic literature review was therefore conducted to explore this topic. METHOD A search of four databases yielded 64 studies. Data were extracted on their general characteristics, methods and sample characteristics as well as the technology types, QoL domains and application within ecological systems. A narrative synthesis was subsequently developed. RESULTS Most of the studies applied assistive technology (AT) and focused on personal development and self-determination on an individual level. CONCLUSIONS Technology can enhance the QoL of people with pervasive support needs. There are indications that although MT and UD-based technology are used in practice, few studies have examined these technologies. Therefore, there is a knowledge gap regarding the kinds of technology that are used in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Piekema
- Department of Inclusive and Special Needs Education, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annet Ten Brug
- Department of Inclusive and Special Needs Education, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Aly Waninge
- Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen, Research Group Healthy Ageing, Allied Health Care and Nursing, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Health Psychology Research, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annette van der Putten
- Department of Inclusive and Special Needs Education, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Lancioni GE, Singh NN, O'Reilly MF, Sigafoos J, Alberti G, Chiariello V, Desideri L. A microswitch-aided program to enable people with extensive multiple disabilities to control environmental stimulation through different responses. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1073650. [PMID: 36569625 PMCID: PMC9780668 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1073650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study assessed whether a simple technology-aided program (i.e., a program involving the use of microswitches linked to a smartphone) could be set up to enable people with motor, sensory and intellectual disabilities to control preferred environmental stimulation through two different response movements. Methods Ten participants were involved in the study. Each of them was exposed to an ABAB design, in which A represented baseline phases without the program and B intervention phases with the use of the program. The study assessed whether the participants (a) had significant increases of each of the two response movements available and/or showed response variability across sessions and over time and (b) had signs of satisfaction/happiness during the study sessions, in connection with their stimulation access and control. Results The program was effective in increasing the participants' responding and consequently their self-regulated stimulation input. Half of the participants showed a significant increase of both responses available from the first intervention phase. Other participants seemed to focus more on one of the two responses. Even so, they tended to have occasionally high performance frequencies also with regard to their non-dominant (not significantly increased) response. Finally, all participants showed clear signs of satisfaction/happiness during the intervention sessions. Conclusions The program represents a potentially useful approach for enabling people with extensive multiple disabilities to self-regulate their access to preferred environmental stimulation and improve their mood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio E. Lancioni
- Department of Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Nirbhay N. Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Mark F. O'Reilly
- College of Education, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Jeff Sigafoos
- School of Education, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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Oudshoorn CEM, Frielink N, Nijs SLP, Embregts PJCM. Psychological eHealth interventions for people with intellectual disabilities: A scoping review. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2021; 34:950-972. [PMID: 33704872 PMCID: PMC8359285 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of eHealth, which has accelerated in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, could contribute to the access to tailor-made psychological interventions for people with intellectual disabilities. METHOD A scoping review was conducted on peer-reviewed studies between 1996-2019. RESULTS Thirty-three studies reported on the use of psychological eHealth interventions focused on mental health problems and/or challenging behaviour. The vast majority of these studies reported on interventions that were delivered at the individual level. The context in which these interventions were delivered varied, primarily ranging from the home setting to residential settings, as well as day or activity centres and schools. The studies described various types of interventions: telehealth interventions, computerized cognitive behavioural therapy, and interventions focused on (social) learning principles targeting challenging behaviour. CONCLUSIONS eHealth provides new opportunities for both therapists and lay-therapists to deliver psychological interventions. Future studies should focus on the effectiveness of psychological eHealth interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathelijn E. M. Oudshoorn
- TranzoTilburg School of Social and Behavioral SciencesTilburg UniversityTilburgThe Netherlands
- ASVZSliedrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Noud Frielink
- TranzoTilburg School of Social and Behavioral SciencesTilburg UniversityTilburgThe Netherlands
| | - Sara L. P. Nijs
- TranzoTilburg School of Social and Behavioral SciencesTilburg UniversityTilburgThe Netherlands
| | - Petri J. C. M. Embregts
- TranzoTilburg School of Social and Behavioral SciencesTilburg UniversityTilburgThe Netherlands
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Noyek S, Vowles C, Batorowicz B, Davies C, Fayed N. Direct assessment of emotional well-being from children with severe motor and communication impairment: a systematic review. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020; 17:501-514. [PMID: 32878502 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1810334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Explore methods used in peer-reviewed literature for obtaining self-expression of well-being information from children with severe motor and communication impairment (SMCI). MATERIALS AND METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted on 22 August 2019 through academic databases: CINAHL; Embase; MEDLINE; PsycINFO; InSpec; Compendex. Search strategies were informed by keywords under the following areas: (1) population: children with SMCI, (2) assessment methods: alternative to natural speech, paper and pencil report or standardized keyboard use (e.g., eye gaze) and (3) target information: well-being (e.g., quality of life). Studies were excluded if they focused on individuals over 25-years old, exclusively autism or typically developing children. RESULTS Non-duplicate studies of 10,986 were screened; 49 studies met inclusion criteria. Most studies used high-tech methods of self-expression in a single context (n = 17). Familiar partners play a significant role in self-expression; 18 studies required a familiar partner for children with SMCI to self-express. Thirty-five studies involved children self-expressing to solely adults, in comparison to 14 studies which involved peers. CONCLUSION Findings highlight the advancement of high-tech communication devices restricted to application in single contexts. Familiar partner knowledge of children with SMCI has the potential to be shared with others (e.g., respite care providers), enhancing both caregiver and child well-being. Future research that would enhance the literature could explore the assessment of emotional well-being for application in various contexts using multimodal methods. Opportunities for children with SMCI to express their emotional well-being can further influence the understanding and enhancement of participation, social connections, and experiences.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONUse of lower tech methods of self-expression to obtain information directly from children with severe motor and communication impairment (SMCI) remain more feasible in home and school contexts.By utilizing familiar partners' experiences and knowledge of the child, respite care providers, novel support workers, and others involved in the lives of children with SMCI can become further informed.Current high-tech methods for obtaining the emotional expressions of children with SMCI may benefit from incorporating multimodal approaches including lower tech methods, to be feasibly applied in real world contexts where well-being takes place.Further research on this topic is imperative to enable children with SMCI to self-express their emotional well-being which can enhance participation, activities, social connections, and experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Noyek
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Caryn Vowles
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Beata Batorowicz
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Claire Davies
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Nora Fayed
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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Stasolla F, Caffò AO, Perilli V, Albano V. Experimental Examination and Social Validation of a Microswitch Intervention to Improve Choice-Making and Activity Engagement for Six Girls with Rett Syndrome. Dev Neurorehabil 2019; 22:527-541. [PMID: 31169045 DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2019.1624655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: The use of assistive technology, specifically microswitches, with children with RTT has been shown to effectively moderate the impact of their disability on their quality of life- by facilitating access to meaningful leisure and other activities. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a microswitch intervention on increased choice making, engagement in a targeted sorting activity, and indices of happiness, and decreased stereotypic behaviors for six girls with Rett syndrome. Targeted dependent variables were also assessed at six months post-intervention. Following the intervention study, 90 external raters completed a social validation procedure. Method: An ABABAB experimental sequence was implemented for each participant with a cross-over effect. A social validation assessment involving 90 external raters was carried out. Results: Data emphasized an improved performance for each participants involved (i.e., adaptive responses). Five participants showed a capacity of independent choice. One participant seemed to be closely linked to the position of the container. Social raters favorably endorsed the use of the program since they positively evaluated the use of the technology on all the dimensions investigated. Conclusion: A microswitch intervention may improve choice making and activity engagement for children with Rett syndrome. Further research is needed on the development of more sophisticated forms of individualized technological options to improve opportunities for enhanced engagement and choice-making for individuals with RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Vincenza Albano
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari , Italy
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Stasolla F, Caffò AO, Perilli V, Boccasini A, Damiani R, D'Amico F. Assistive technology for promoting adaptive skills of children with cerebral palsy: ten cases evaluation. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2018; 14:489-502. [DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2018.1467972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro O. Caffò
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Viviana Perilli
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Adele Boccasini
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Rita Damiani
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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Stasolla F, Perilli V, Damiani R, Albano V. Assistive technology to promote occupation and reduce mouthing by three boys with fragile X syndrome. Dev Neurorehabil 2017; 20:185-193. [PMID: 27054947 DOI: 10.3109/17518423.2015.1133724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To extend the use of assistive technology (AT) for promoting a new adaptive response and to reduce hand mouthing, by three boys with fragile X syndrome. To monitor the effects of the intervention program on the positive mood. To carry out a three month follow-up phases. To conduct a social validation assessment involving 30 parents of children who presented multiple disabilities as raters. METHODS The study was implemented according to an ABAB experimental design, where A represented baseline phases (technology available but inactive) and B represented intervention phases (the technology ensured 7 s of positive stimulation). RESULTS All participants improved and consolidated their performance. Parents involved in the social validation assessment rated positively the use of such technology. CONCLUSION AT-based program was useful, affordable, and effective for enhancing constructive engagement, self-determination, and for improving quality of life by children with fragile X syndrome and severe to profound developmental disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rita Damiani
- c Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication , University of Bari , Bari , Italy
| | - Vincenza Albano
- c Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication , University of Bari , Bari , Italy
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Stasolla F, Caffò AO, Perilli V, Boccasini A, Stella A, Damiani R, Albano V, Damato C. A microswitch-based program for promoting initial ambulation responses: An evaluation with two girls with multiple disabilities. J Appl Behav Anal 2017; 50:345-356. [PMID: 28128442 DOI: 10.1002/jaba.374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
We assessed the use of a microswitch-based program for promoting ambulation responses by two children with multiple disabilities. The goals of the study were to: (a) evaluate the importance of the contingency between the target behavior (forward step) and the programmed consequence (preferred stimuli), (b) measure effects of the intervention on indices of happiness, and (c) assess the social validation of the procedure using 20 physiotherapists as external raters. The intervention involved the automatic delivery of preferred stimuli contingent on forward steps. Results showed that both participants improved their performance (forward steps and indices of happiness) during contingent reinforcement phases compared to baseline and noncontingent reinforcement phases. Moreover, physiotherapists rated the intervention as socially valid.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro O Caffò
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari (Italy)
| | | | - Adele Boccasini
- Lega del Filo d'Oro Research Center, Termini Imerese (Italy)
| | - Anna Stella
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari (Italy)
| | - Rita Damiani
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari (Italy)
| | - Vincenza Albano
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari (Italy)
| | - Concetta Damato
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari (Italy)
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Stasolla F, Perilli V, Di Leone A, Damiani R, Albano V, Stella A, Damato C. Technological aids to support choice strategies by three girls with Rett syndrome. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2015; 36:36-44. [PMID: 25310833 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2014.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This study was aimed at extending the use of assistive technology (i.e., photocells, interface and personal computer) to support choice strategies by three girls with Rett syndrome and severe to profound developmental disabilities. A second purpose of the study was to reduce stereotypic behaviors exhibited by the participants involved (i.e., body rocking, hand washing and hand mouthing). Finally, a third goal of the study was to monitor the effects of such program on the participants' indices of happiness. The study was carried out according to a multiple probe design across responses for each participant. Results showed that the three girls increased the adaptive responses and decreased the stereotyped behaviors during intervention phases compared to baseline. Moreover, during intervention phases, the indices of happiness augmented for each girl as well. Clinical, psychological and rehabilitative implications of the findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Antonia Di Leone
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Rita Damiani
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenza Albano
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Anna Stella
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Concetta Damato
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
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Stasolla F, Damiani R, Perilli V, Di Leone A, Albano V, Stella A, Damato C. Technological supports to promote choice opportunities by two children with fragile X syndrome and severe to profound developmental disabilities. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2014; 35:2993-3000. [PMID: 25118066 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2014.07.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This study was aimed at assessing whether technological supports (i.e. optic sensors such as photocells) were successful enabling two boys with fragile X syndrome and severe to profound developmental disabilities to perform occupation and choice opportunities. A second goal of the study was to reduce stereotyped behaviours (i.e. hand mouthing and eye poking) exhibited by the participants. Finally, the third purpose of the study was to verify the rehabilitative effects of the intervention program on the indices of happiness of the participants. The study has been conducted according to a non-concurrent multiple baseline design across participants followed by intervention and cross over phases, where the associations between behavioural responses and environmental consequences were systematically inverted. Moreover, a maintenance phase was assessed. The results demonstrated that the technology is useful to facilitate employment and opportunities of choice, showing a growth of the indices of happiness and a decrease of stereotyped behaviours, from both participants involved. Clinical, practical and psychological implications of the findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rita Damiani
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | | | - Antonia Di Leone
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenza Albano
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Anna Stella
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Concetta Damato
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Italy
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Assistive technology-based programs to promote communication and leisure activities by three children emerged from a minimal conscious state. Cogn Process 2014; 16:69-78. [PMID: 25077461 DOI: 10.1007/s10339-014-0625-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study proposed the use of assistive technology (AT) to promote communication and leisure opportunities by three children with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Furthermore, it assessed the effects of such technology on the indices of positive participation and provided a social validation procedure. Three children emerged from a minimal conscious state and presenting extensive motor disabilities were involved. The intervention program allowed the participants to request and to choice preferred items independently and to perform literacy through a keyboard emulator. A multiple probe design across behaviors with post-intervention check was employed. Outcome measures were correct requests, understandable words, intervals with positive participation, and scores of social validation assessment. Request and choice behaviors and literacy improved significantly during intervention phases. During post-intervention check, all participants consolidated their performance. Moreover, indices of positive participation increased during intervention phases. Scores of social validation assessment showed that the combination of both behaviors was preferable to the same considered separately. AT program showed to be suitable for promoting constructive engagement and literacy behaviors by children with TBI. Future research is needed to generalize this data to a larger sample and to develop new technology for people with different levels of disabilities due to TBI.
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Assistive Technology for People with Severe/Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities. AUTISM AND CHILD PSYCHOPATHOLOGY SERIES 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4899-8029-8_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Tam GM, Phillips KJ, Mudford OC. Teaching individuals with profound multiple disabilities to access preferred stimuli with multiple microswitches. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2011; 32:2352-2361. [PMID: 21824746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2011.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2011] [Accepted: 07/18/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We replicated and extended previous research on microswitch facilitated choice making by individuals with profound multiple disabilities. Following an assessment of stimulus preferences, we taught 6 adults with profound multiple disabilities to emit 2 different responses to activate highly preferred stimuli. All participants learnt to activate both microswitches. Five participants showed a higher overall level of responding when both switches activating preferred stimuli were available concurrently. After completion of microswitch training, a choice assessment was conducted in which participants had access to 2 microswitches concurrently, with 1 connected to the most highly preferred stimulus and the other to a least preferred stimulus. Choice making behavior was shown in 3 participants and provided support for the preference assessment results. The results of the 3 remaining participants showed that both the most highly preferred and the least preferred stimuli may serve as reinforcers for microswitch activation responses.
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Nilsson L, Nyberg P, Eklund M. Training characteristics important for growing consciousness of joystick-use in people with profound cognitive disabilities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF THERAPY AND REHABILITATION 2010. [DOI: 10.12968/ijtr.2010.17.11.79539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mona Eklund
- Lund University, Department of Health Sciences, Division of Occupational Therapy and Gerontology, P.O. Box 157, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
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Lancioni GE, O'Reilly MF, Singh NN, Sigafoos J, Didden R, Oliva D, Campodonico F, de Pace C, Chiapparino C, Groeneweg J. Persons with multiple disabilities accessing stimulation and requesting social contact via microswitch and VOCA devices: new research evaluation and social validation. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2009; 30:1084-94. [PMID: 19361954 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2009.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2009] [Accepted: 03/11/2009] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The first of these two studies assessed whether 11 participants with multiple disabilities of 5.3-18.2 (M=10.7) years of age would succeed in combining a microswitch for accessing preferred environmental stimuli and a Voice Output Communication Aid (VOCA) for requesting social contact. The second study conducted a social validation assessment of the aforementioned microswitch-VOCA combination. Data showed that all participants learned to use the microswitch and the VOCA. Moreover, the 10 participants, who received a 1-month post-intervention check, largely maintained their responding. The social validation assessment indicated that the raters (i.e., 110 university psychology students) favored the combination of microswitch and VOCA over the microswitch or the VOCA alone, and hypothetical combinations of microswitches or VOCAs.
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Lancioni GE, O'Reilly MF, Singh NN, Sigafoos J, Oliva D, Severini L. Three persons with multiple disabilities accessing environmental stimuli and asking for social contact through microswitch and VOCA technology. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2008; 52:327-336. [PMID: 18339095 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2007.01024.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct access to environmental stimuli and opportunity to ask for social contact/attention may be considered highly relevant objectives for persons with multiple disabilities. We assessed the possibility of enabling three of these persons (two children and one adolescent) to combine two microswitches (for accessing environmental stimuli) and a Voice Output Communication Aid (VOCA), which allowed them to ask for caregiver's attention. METHODS Initially, the participants were required to use each of the two microswitches individually and then together. Thereafter, they were taught to use the VOCA. Eventually, the VOCA was available together with the microswitches, and the participants could use any of the three. RESULTS The results, which support preliminary data on this topic, showed that all participants (1) were able to operate the two microswitches as well as the VOCA; and (2) used all three of them consistently when they were simultaneously available. CONCLUSIONS Teaching persons with multiple disabilities to combine a VOCA with conventional microswitches may enrich their general input, emphasize their active social role and eventually enhance their social image.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Lancioni
- Department of Psychology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
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