2022 Volume 18 Issue 1 Pages 165-171
Background: Eye movement disorders of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are unlikely to occur. For this reason, an increasing number of occupational therapists are have started introduction gaze-based AACDs. Although it is desirable to introduce AACDs as early as possible, the optimal method for introducing such devices remains unclear.
Objectives: This study aimed to clarify the initial practice for the introduction of a gaze-based AACD from an operational perspective.
Methods: The study participants were 16 healthy adults (12 males and 4 females; 30.9 ± 6.28 years). The following three aspects were measured according to the two operation methods (gaze groups and switch groups): “physical function”, “mental function”, “computer operation”.
Results: No significant differences in physical or mental functioning were found between the gaze and switch groups. The switch group input significantly more characters in the computer operation than did the gaze group (P = 0.02, mean number of characters ± SD: 425.7 ± 156.5 vs. 234.9 ± 84.7, respectively). Furthermore, the switch group became accustomed to the operation significantly faster than the gaze group (P = 0.01, 9.1 ± 4.0 vs. 15.1 ± 2.7 minutes, respectively).
Conclusion: The initial training points for the introduction of gaze-based AACDs are as follows: The operating posture may affect the ease of operation. Therefore, always check the operating environment. If you want to input many characters quickly or communicate your intentions in a timely manner, switch input is recommended. Give the patient at least 10-15 minutes per session of continuous practice to become comfortable with the operation.
