Eye-gaze control technology for children, adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy with significant physical disability: Findings from a systematic review

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The primary objective of this systematic review was to examine the effectiveness of eye-gaze control technology for facilitating communication across different social contexts for people with cerebral palsy and significant physical disability. Methods: Systematic review. Results: The search identified 756 potentially eligible articles, of which two, low level articles were eligible. One study reported positive results for achieving communication goals for children with cerebral palsy. The second concluded that eye-gaze control technology resulted in greater quality of life and less depression for adults with late stage amyotrophic lateral sclerosis when compared to non-users. Discussion: Research regarding the effectiveness of eye-gaze control technology used to access a laptop, tablet or computer on communication outcomes, participation, quality of life and self-esteem in children, adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy and significant physical disability is sparse. A scoping review to fully identify issues to inform clinical practice and future research is required.

KEYWORDS:

• Assistive technology
• communication
• eye-gaze control technology

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to warmly thank Claire Galea, Statistician at Cerebral Palsy Alliance, for her advice regarding methodological aspects of this review.

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.