Communication opportunities via special messaging technology for two post-coma persons with multiple disabilities

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Assistive Technology
• Communication Sciences

Background:

• Individuals emerging from a minimally conscious state often have profound motor and communication impairments.
• Effective communication strategies are crucial for improving quality of life and engagement for post-coma adults.
• Existing assistive technologies may not fully address the complex needs of this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a specialized messaging technology for two adults with multiple disabilities post-coma.
• To evaluate the technology's ability to facilitate independent communication in individuals with severe impairments.
• To provide further evidence supporting the use of assistive technology for post-coma communication.

Main Methods:

• An ABAB research design was employed, alternating between baseline and intervention phases.
• The intervention utilized a net-book computer with specialized software, a GSM modem, and microswitches.
• Participants used prerecorded lists of names and messages to send and receive communications.

Main Results:

• Both participants independently learned to send and receive messages using the technology.
• Participants sent an average of 3 to 17 messages and received 2 to 6 messages per session.
• The intervention demonstrated a positive impact on communication abilities.

Conclusions:

• The specialized messaging technology is effective in enabling basic communication for post-coma adults with severe disabilities.
• This technology offers a viable solution for enhancing social interaction and connection for individuals with profound communication impairments.
• Findings support the integration of advanced assistive technologies in neurorehabilitation for individuals with disorders of consciousness.