Using an orientation system for indoor travel and activity with persons with multiple disabilities

ISSN： 1464-5165

Source： Disability and Rehabilitation, Vol.21, Iss.3, 1999-03, pp. : 124-127

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Abstract

Purpose: The study assessed the effectiveness of an orientation system, consisting of a programmable control device linked to acoustic and light sources, for facilitating independent indoor travel and activity in two persons with profound intellectual disability and blindness or severe visual impairment. Method: The control device was programmed to activate each destination the persons were to reach and the acoustic or light sources leading to it automatically (i.e. after a preset time from the persons reaching the previous destination). One person was exposed to two baseline phases without the system being alternated with two orientation phases with the system ; the other person received only one baseline and one orientation phase. Results: Data showed that during the orientation phases, both persons benefited from the use of the system and could reach the destinations successfully and carry out the activities. Conclusions: The possibility of promoting independent indoor travel and activity in persons with multiple disabilities may have important implications for the condition of these persons and for rehabilitation and care centres.