ALS Assistive Technology

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease which causes the nerve cells in certain areas of the brain and spinal cord to degenerate. The areas affected by ALS are responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. People with ALS experience muscle twitching, weakness in the extremities or slurring of speech, eventually resulting in the inability to move, eat, speak or even breathe. Currently, the causes of ALS remain unknown. There is no cure, and the effects of ALS can't be reversed. However, there have been many scientific and technological advances to help improve and prolong the life of those afflicted with ALS. Assistive technology can help people with ALS communicate and carry out their daily activities.

Switches

• For those with ALS who have difficulty with mobility but need to use electronic devices such as computers, switches are a useful tool. Easier to manipulate than joysticks or keyboards, switches allow for easier input and aid in development by assisting adults and children in interacting with their environment. Switches come in a variety of designs. They may be activated by a single button or a sensory plate, or they may be motion- or brain-activated.

Voice Output Communication Aids

• Voice output communication aids/speech generating devices help ALS patients communicate with others. These electronic devices can generate spoken or printed text. Software is also available which can convert text to spoken words which are audible through computer speakers. A PC-compatible sound card is required for use of this software.

Haptic Devices

• Haptic devices allow people with ALS to interact with computers by using touch to receive tactic feedback. These devices function by applying opposition to the user, and are beneficial for those who are kinesthetic learners. There are two main types of this adaptive technology. Glove/pen devices allow users to physically manipulate virtual three-dimensional objects, while pen/mouse interfaces allow users to feel textures of two-dimensional objects.

Eye-Gaze Response Interface Computer Aid

• Eye-Gaze Response Interface Computer Aid (ERICA) is a beneficial tool for those with ALS who are able to move their eyes but cannot speak. Users look at a keyboard and their eye movement is tracked by an infrared light. The screen then displays a message as text. With ERICA, people with ALS can still use computers, go online, play games and write emails, all without using a mouse or keyboard.

Head Tracking Mouse

• Head tracking devices are a type of technology that allows individuals with ALS to control a computer mouse by moving their head. Head movement in any direction will cause the mouse to move in that direction. Head tracking technology functions by transmitting signals from the computer monitor and tracking reflectors on the head of the user. There are additional programs which could be added to allow users to click and drag as well as move the mouse cursor.