Special text messaging communication systems for persons with multiple disabilities

OBJECTIVE: To expand recently-developed text messaging systems with new technology-based solutions so as to allow persons with multiple disabilities to write messages. METHOD: Two case studies were conducted. In Study I, the new technology-based solution involved vocal scanning of the alphabet letters to allow letter selection/writing and was assessed with a woman with blindness and extensive motor disability. In Study II, the new technology-based solution involved a touch-screen superimposed on letter symbols arranged alphabetically and was assessed with a man with acquired brain injury, motor disability and lack of speech. Each study involved an ABAB design. RESULTS: Participants learned to write their messages, to send them out and to listen to incoming messages during intervention sessions of nearly 30 and 20 minutes, respectively. CONCLUSION: Text messaging systems can be developed that allow participants with multiple disabilities to write messages.