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Using microswitches with persons who have profound multiple disabilities: evaluation of three cases
G E Lancioni1, M F O'Reilly, N N Singh
1Department of Psychology, University of Bari, Italy. g.lancioni@psico.uniba.it
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|January 24, 2004
Summary
Microswitch programs effectively increased responding in individuals with profound multiple disabilities. Two participants maintained these gains long-term, showing the potential of assistive technology.
Area of Science:
- Assistive Technology
- Behavioral Interventions
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Individuals with profound multiple disabilities often require specialized interventions to promote engagement and learning.
- Microswitch technology offers a potential avenue for individuals with limited motor skills to interact with their environment.
Observation:
- Three participants with profound multiple disabilities were assessed using microswitch programs.
- Microswitch activation was linked to the delivery of preferred stimuli.
Findings:
- All participants demonstrated significant increases in microswitch activation during the intervention period.
- Two participants maintained their response levels at a 3-month follow-up, indicating sustained effectiveness.
- Variability in response levels was observed among participants.
Implications:
- Microswitch interventions show promise for enhancing functional responding in individuals with profound multiple disabilities.
- The findings suggest the importance of individualized approaches and consistent implementation for optimal outcomes.
- Further research is warranted to explore the long-term maintenance and generalization of microswitch use.