Multiple-microswitch technology to foster adaptive behaviorin aman with acquired brain injury and pervasive/multiple disabilities

This study extends the use of microswitch technology for a man with acquired brain injury and pervasive/multiple disabilities, who had previously been involved in microswitch-mediated programs aimed at promoting adaptive behavior (i.e., object manipulation and head upright). The objectives of this study were (a) to restore the adaptive level obtained in previous programs, but with the use of a more elaborate object manipulation response, (b) extend the adaptive behavior so as to include the presence of eyes open, and (c) establish a new form of practically useful adaptive response, namely, independent drinking. The results showed that the participant improved his adaptive behavior to a level at which (a) virtually all object manipulation responses occurred in combination with head upright and eyes open, (b) the time with head upright and eyes open covered nearly the entire duration of the sessions, and (c) the drinking responses were largely consistent. The implications of the findings are discussed.