Posted on 08/03/2018
One of the machines that the Sequal Trust often funds for people with communication difficulties is called an ‘eye gaze’. Simply put this product is like a traditional tablet, but instead of a handheld mouse, the user navigates the screen with their eyes and blinks to click on an icon. They can even perform right, left, and double clicks, so the accessibility is the same as any off the shelf computer. Because the machine is internet enabled, the user can access anything you would normally with a mouse, be it videos, social media or online resources. Of course, the main use for this technology is for communication and with the correct software loaded our users can pick pre-loaded words and questions, make schedules and even connect with and control their environment. All in the blink of an eye!
How Does It Work?
Eye gaze systems work by using lights and cameras underneath the surface that constantly send and receive information. Cameras pick up light reflections from the pupils and translate eye movements into mouse movement, it works even if you have glasses or contact lenses.
Who Is It For?
Anyone who may struggle to communicate and cannot access regular computers can benefit from an eye gaze machine. Many people who are non-verbal or have incoherent speech use them even if they also have limited movement. Some of the users who have benefited include people with conditions such as Motor Neurone Disease, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, spinal injuries, Rett syndrome or stroke victims.
If you think that you or somebody you know could benefit from a communication device like the eye gaze, we might be able to help you. Register as a member to receive our support or contact us for more information.