Article

Assessing two technology-based programs for reducing toe walking and
breaks during walking of two men with multiple disabilities, respectively.
METHOD: The men were involved in separate single-case studies, each of which was
carried out according to an ABAB design. The technology included a microprocessor
with specific software, optic sensors, and visual plus vibrotactile or auditory
systems for presenting preferred stimuli. In Study I, the man received 1 s of
preferred flickering lights and vibratory input for each step performed with the
heel of the left foot touching the ground or coming close to it (i.e. within a
2-mm distance). In Study II, the other man received 10 s of preferred music
anytime he crossed one of the small marks present along the travel routes.
RESULTS: The B phases showed that (a) the man included in Study I increased the
percentages of left- and right-foot steps performed with the heels touching or
nearing the ground to above 85% and 70%, respectively, and (b) the man included
in Study II walked with very few breaks. CONCLUSION: Technology-based programs
can be highly effective in helping persons with multiple disabilities improve
their walking behavior.

Langue : ANGLAIS