Qualitative assessment of Tongue Drive System by people with high-level spinal cord injury

J Rehabil Res Dev, 2014 · DOI: 10.1682/JRRD.2013.08.0178 · Published: January 1, 2014

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The Tongue Drive System (TDS) is a technology that allows people with severe disabilities to control devices using their tongue. A small magnet is attached to the tongue, and sensors detect tongue movements, translating them into commands. Participants with spinal cord injuries tested the system for six weeks, providing feedback on its usability and comparing it to other assistive technologies.

Study Duration

6 wk

Participants

11 individuals with tetraplegia from SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Most participants were positive about keeping the magnetic tongue-barbell to use the TDS.
2
Participants were satisfied with the TDS performance.
3
Most participants felt they could do more with the TDS than with their current assistive technologies.

Research Summary

This study qualitatively assessed the Tongue Drive System (TDS), a tongue-operated assistive technology (AT), by individuals with high-level spinal cord injury (SCI). Participants used the TDS for 6 weeks, and their experiences were evaluated through questionnaires focusing on tongue piercing and TDS usability compared to sip-and-puff (SnP) and their current ATs. The findings suggest that participants were generally satisfied with the TDS, found it effective, and were willing to continue using it, highlighting its potential as a valuable assistive technology.

Practical Implications

Improved Assistive Technology Design

Qualitative feedback from end-users can inform the design and development of more user-friendly and acceptable assistive technologies.

Enhanced Independence

The Tongue Drive System offers individuals with severe disabilities a potential means to increase their independence in accessing computers, driving powered wheelchairs, and controlling their environment.

Personalized Customization

Customization of the TDS, such as adjusting cursor speed and training duration, can improve user experience and system effectiveness.

Qualitative assessment of Tongue Drive System by people with high-level spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Assistive Technology Design

Enhanced Independence

Personalized Customization

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Qualitative assessment of Tongue Drive System by people with high-level spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Assistive Technology Design

Enhanced Independence

Personalized Customization

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?