Affiliations: [a] Lega del Filo d'Oro Research Center, Molfetta, Italy | [b] University of Bari, Bari, Italy
Correspondence:
[*]
Address for correspondence: Fabrizio Stasolla, Via Quintino Sella, 268, 70122 Bari, Italy.
Tel.: +39 349663539; E-mail: f.stasolla@psico.uniba.it
Abstract: Background:Post-coma persons with multiple disabilities may represent a challenge to rehabilitation centers, due to their clinical conditions. Moreover, they can failed to engage adaptive responses aimed at the self-management of environmental stimuli. Objectives:To assess the impact and social rating of a new assistive technology set-up for promoting constructive engagement by two post-coma boys emerged from a minimal conscious state. Method:During baseline sessions, the participants were provided with a mouse to manage the computer system. During intervention phases, a new technology was implemented, allowing both participants to manage environmental stimuli with a microswitch instead of the mouse. Furthermore, a social validation assessment was carried out, involving students as raters. Results:Data showed an increasing of constructive engagement by both participants during intervention phases. Sixty psychology students (social raters) favoured the new technology on a six items questionnaire (i.e. enjoyment, suitability, rehabilitation, independence, daily context and support). Conclusions:The new technology was suitable, affordable, effective and socially preferable.
Keywords: Assistive technology, acquired brain injury, consciousness disorders, extensive motor disabilities, social validation, rehabilitation psychology
