Microswitch- and VOCA-assisted programs for two post-coma persons with minimally conscious state and pervasive motor...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Assistive Technology
• Communication Sciences

Background:

• Individuals in a minimally conscious state (MCS) often have severe motor impairments, limiting their ability to interact with their environment.
• Effective interventions are needed to improve the quality of life and engagement for post-coma patients with pervasive motor disabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of intervention programs utilizing learning principles and assistive technology for two men in a minimally conscious state with pervasive motor disabilities.
• To evaluate the impact of microswitch and voice output communication aid (VOCA) interventions on response rates and purposeful choice.

Main Methods:

• Two studies were conducted with post-coma individuals diagnosed with MCS and significant motor impairments.
• Study I: Employed an optic microswitch (double blinking) for music access and a two-channel VOCA (hand closures) for communication.
• Study II: Utilized a pressure microswitch (head movements) for media access and a VOCA (eyelid closure) for caregiver calls.

Main Results:

• Both participants demonstrated significant increases in microswitch- and VOCA-related responses during intervention phases.
• Evidence of purposeful choice between VOCA responses was observed in Study I.
• Interventions facilitated increased interaction and communication attempts in individuals with severe motor limitations.

Conclusions:

• Assistive technology, incorporating learning principles, can significantly enhance engagement and communication in individuals with MCS and severe motor disabilities.
• These findings suggest potential pathways for improving the care and interaction possibilities for post-coma patients.
• Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefits and broader applicability of these technological interventions.