[Communication for patients with severe motor handicaps--clinical experience with a new electronic communication aid]

The use of "Komhilf", a newly developed communication aid for persons with severe physical handicap, is described on the example of two patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Aside individual letter input, it provides input of complete phrases signifying basic needs or common request, without a need for letter-by-letter spelling. After a short familiarization period, both patients were able to communicate up to two to three hours daily via "Komhilf". Psychic stabilization and increased levels of activity were observed in the patients, which subsequently also entailed increased compliance with other therapeutic measures. Additional features include good transportability, use in lying and sitting (wheelchair) patients alike, easy-to-learn operation, and, not least, a competitive price.