Use of Computer Access Technology as an Alternative to Writing for a Pre-School Child with Athetoid Cerebral Palsy—A Case Report

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the use of an outcome-driven model of decision-making in the implementation of computer access technology (CAT) for a pre-school child with athetoid cerebral palsy. The child did not have the fine motor skills required to hold a pencil but had the cognitive abilities to learn to write; therefore, we explored the use of a CAT device to enable written communication. Case study methodology was used to describe the selection process, child-level outcomes, and clinical challenges faced by the therapist in the use of a consortium model that was designed for an outcome-driven model of decision-making. The critical role of an occupational therapist in this process using a family-centered approach is discussed.

KEYWORDS. :

• Cerebral Palsy
• Computer Access Technology
• Occupational Therapy
• Outcome-Driven Model