Diversified occupation and communication program versions for persons with acquired neurological damage and multiple disabilities

Abstract

Background: Persons with acquired neurological damage and multiple disabilities can be largely dependent on their caregivers, unless technology-aided programs are available to support them. Objective: This study extended the assessment of a technology-aided program recently developed to help these persons achieve independent occupations and communicate effectively. Subjects: Seven participants were involved in the study. Method: The program relied on: (a) a computer for presenting the occupation and communication options (e.g. songs, television, and text messaging); and (b) microswitches for helping the participants access those options with small responses. The program was diversified (in terms of options available and responses/microswitches used) according to the participants’ characteristics and interests, and thus multiple program versions were set up and assessed. Results: The participants successfully used the individualized versions of the program and, accordingly, managed independent occupation and communication (i.e. remaining engaged for means of about 60%–90% of the session times). Conclusion: A technology-aided program can be adapted to persons with acquired neurological damage and multiple disabilities to support their independent occupations and communication engagements.