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Mobile communication jacket for people with severe speech impairment
Renée Lampe1,2, Tobias Blumenstein1, Varvara Turova1
1a Research Unit of the Buhl-Strohmaier-Foundation for Paediatric Neuro-Orthopaedics and Cerebral Palsy of the Clinic for Orthopaedics and Sports Orthopaedics , Clinic 'rechts der Isar' of the Technical University of Munich , Munich , Germany.
Disability and Rehabilitation. Assistive Technology
|April 28, 2017
Summary
This study developed a wearable communication jacket for individuals with cerebral palsy and severe speech impairments. The assistive technology offers a mobile and integrated solution to enhance communication and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Assistive Technology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) is a motor disorder impacting speech and communication.
- Severe speech impairments in CP necessitate innovative assistive communication tools.
- Existing communication aids may lack mobility and constant availability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a prototype assistive communication tool for patients with severe speech impairments.
- To create a wearable device integrating a mobile communication system.
- To support individuals with cerebral palsy and associated communication challenges.
Main Methods:
- A prototype communication jacket was engineered with a display, keyboard, LED, and alarm, controlled by a microcontroller.
- The prototype's functionality was assessed in six participants with cerebral palsy (aged 7-20) and three healthy individuals.
- A seven-item patient questionnaire was employed for evaluating the assistive tool.
Main Results:
- A functional prototype of the communication jacket was successfully developed and tested.
- Participant feedback via questionnaire was positive, indicating user acceptance.
- Proposed improvements led to enhancements like voice output for pre-selected phrases and an enlarged display.
Conclusions:
- The communication jacket provides a mobile and continuously accessible communication solution.
- This wearable technology can significantly benefit patients with motor and speech impairments.
- The integrated, adaptable system enhances user independence, quality of life, and self-fulfillment.
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