Using an orientation system for indoor travel and activity with persons with multiple disabilities

The study assessed the effectiveness of an orientation system, consisting of a programmable control device linked to acoustic and light sources, for facilitating independent indoor travel and activity in two persons with profound intellectual disability and blindness or severe visual impairment.

The control device was programmed to activate each destination the persons were to reach and the acoustic or light sources leading to it automatically (i.e. after a preset time from the persons reaching the previous destination). One person was exposed to two baseline phases without the system being alternated with two orientation phases with the system; the other person received only one baseline and one orientation phase.

Data showed that during the orientation phases, both persons benefited from the use of the system and could reach the destinations successfully and carry out the activities.

The possibility of promoting independent indoor travel and activity in persons with multiple disabilities may have important implications for the condition of these persons and for rehabilitation and care centres.