Frontiers in Human Neuroscience (Feb 2014)

Technology-based Intervention Programs to Promote Stimulation Control and Communication in Post-coma Persons with Different Levels of Disability

  • Giulio E. Lancioni,
  • Andrea eBosco,
  • Marta eOlivetti Belardinelli,
  • Nirbhay N Singh,
  • Mark F O'Reilly,
  • Jeff eSigafoos,
  • Doretta eOliva

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2014.00048
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8

Abstract

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Post-coma persons in a minimally conscious state and with extensive motor impairment or emerging/emerged from such a state, but affected by lack of speech and motor impairment, tend to be passive and isolated. A way to help them develop functional responding to control environmental events and communication involves the use of intervention programs relying on assistive technology. This paper provides an overview of technology-based intervention programs for enabling the participants to (a) access brief periods of stimulation through one or two microswitches, (b) pursue stimulation and social contact through the combination of a microswitch and a sensor connected to a speech generating device (SGD) or through two SGD-related sensors, (c) control stimulation options through computer or radio systems and a microswitch, (d) communicate through modified messaging or telephone systems operated via microswitch, and (e) control combinations of leisure and communication options through computer systems operated via microswitch. Twenty-six studies, involving a total of 52 participants, were included in this paper. The intervention programs were carried out using single-subject methodology, and their outcomes were generally considered positive from the standpoint of the participants and their context. Practical implications of the programs are discussed.

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