Eye-gaze access to AAC technology for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Laura J. Ball, Amy S. Nordness, Susan K. Fager, Katie Kersch, Brianae Mohr, Gary L. Pattee, David R. Beukelman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

70 Scopus citations

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe a group of individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis training and using the Eye-gaze Response Interface Computer Aid (ERICA) with Type & Talk or LifeMate 1.1 communication software. Fifteen people with ALS participated in the study, and all but one successfully used the ERICA as his or her primary communication device. The sole participant who discontinued use experienced the onset of impaired eyelid control during training. Results indicate that the ERICA was used to support a number of different communication functions, such as face-to-face interaction (100%), group communication (43%), phone calls (71%), e-mail (79%), and Internet access (86%). In an effort to optimize eye-gaze tracking to support communication, a number of environmental, positioning, and calibration adjustments are reported.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)11-23
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Medical Speech-Language Pathology
Volume18
Issue number3
StatePublished - Sep 2010

Keywords

  • AAC
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
  • Eye tracking
  • Eye-gaze access
  • Speech generating devices

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Otorhinolaryngology
  • Rehabilitation
  • Speech and Hearing

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