Using microswitch-aided programs for people with multiple disabilities to promote stimulation control and mild physical exercise

Background Microswitch-aided programs for persons with multiple disabilities (a) have been rarely used with participants possessing only minimal (e.g., eyelid) responses and (b) have generally targeted simple head or hand responses with higher functioning participants. This study extended the assessment of those programs with both types of participants. Method Four participants with minimal responses were exposed to programs entailing eyelid and lip movements and optic or camera-based microswitches to control environmental stimulation. Six participants with head, arm, and leg-foot responses were exposed to programs entailing demanding forms of those responses and matching microswitches to achieve control of environmental stimulation and physical exercise. Results The results showed that all 10 participants increased their response frequencies, reaching a clear level of stimulation control. For the last 6 participants, the response increases also afforded basic physical exercise. Conclusions Microswitch-aided programs can be adapted to the participants' condition to help them achieve relevant goals.