The Impact of Eye-gaze Controlled Computer on Communication and Functional Independence in Children and Young People with Complex Needs - A Multicenter Intervention Study.

Introduction: Children and young people with complex needs (severe motor impairments and without speech) have few opportunities to use alternative devices for communication. Eye-gaze controlled computers (EGCCs) might provide individuals with complex needs increased opportunities for communication and participation in society.

Objective: To investigate the impact of EGCCs on communication, functional independence and participation in activities in children and young people with complex needs.

Methods: A multicenter intervention study during seven months, measuring outcomes with or without EGCC at four time points, was conducted in Sweden, Dubai, and in USA. Seventeen participants (aged 3-26 years, diagnosis e.g. cerebral palsy, Rett syndrome) were provided with EGCC and services from an Assistive Technology center to implement EGCC in school and/or at home.

Results: Participants significantly increased their expressive communication skills and functional independence with EGCC compared to baseline. All but one (16 of 17) increased their activity repertoire and computer use with EGCC. With EGCC, participation in computer activities averaged 4.1 performed activities (e.g. communication, play), with a duration of 70 minutes/day and a frequency of 76% of days.

Discussion: The study strengthened the research evidence that EGCC can be an effective intervention in daily life for children and young people with complex needs. Communication and independence, common goals of intervention, were shown to be relevant EGCC outcomes.