Technology-based programs to improve walking behavior of persons with multiple disabilities: two single-case studies

Purpose: 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.