Microswitch-cluster technology to enhance adaptive engagement and head upright by a post-coma man with multiple disabilities.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate microswitch-cluster technology to help a post-coma man with multiple disabilities increase adaptive responding and reduce head forward tilting.


METHODS
The intervention programme initially focused on promoting a simple adaptive response (i.e. manipulating and moving a wobbling, ball-like device), which produced brief periods of preferred stimulation. Subsequently, this response produced the stimulation only if performed in the presence of head upright. Moreover, the stimulation lasted the scheduled time only if the head upright was maintained.


RESULTS
Data showed that the programme was successful in increasing the frequency of adaptive responses and in reducing the unhealthy posture of head forward tilting. Toward the end of the programme, the participant performed virtually all responses with his head upright and kept this posture through nearly the entire length of the sessions.


CONCLUSIONS
Microswitch-cluster technology might help post-coma persons with multiple disabilities improve adaptive engagement and head posture simultaneously.
Department of Psychology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy. g.lancioni@psico.uniba.it
Giulio
G
Lancioni
Mark
M
O'Reilly
Nirbhay
N
Singh
Fiora
F
D'Amico
Irene
I
Ricci
Francesca
F
Buonocunto
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003128:Coma / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006257:Head; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011187:Posture; D012656:Self-Help Devices