Using eye-tracking technology for communication in Rett syndrome: perceptions of impact

Abstract

Studies have investigated the use of eye-tracking technology to assess cognition in individuals with Rett syndrome, but few have looked at this access method for communication for this group. Loss of speech, decreased hand use, and severe motor apraxia significantly impact functional communication for this population. Eye gaze is one modality that may be used successfully by individuals with Rett syndrome. This multiple case study explored whether using eye-tracking technology, with ongoing support from a team of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) therapists, could help four participants with Rett syndrome meet individualized communication goals. Two secondary objectives were to examine parents' perspectives on (a) the psychosocial impact of their child's use of the technology, and (b) satisfaction with using the technology. All four participants were rated by the treating therapists to have made improvement on their goals. According to both quantitative findings and descriptive information, eye-tracking technology was viewed by parents as contributing to participants' improved psychosocial functioning. Parents reported being highly satisfied with both the device and the clinical services received. This study provides initial evidence that eye-tracking may be perceived as a worthwhile and potentially satisfactory technology to support individuals with Rett syndrome in communicating. Future, more rigorous research that addresses the limitations of a case study design is required to substantiate study findings.

Eye tracking – The overlooked method to measure cognition in neurodegeneration?

“…In addition, ET emerges as a successful communication tool for subjects suffering from significant verbal and motor impairments. An ET-based communication system has been tested in Rett syndrome (Vessoyan et al, 2018) and advanced hightech eye tracking computer systems (ETCS) are already in use as communication tools in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ETCS are suggested to be highly effective for locked-in patients, improving their social integration, interaction and quality of life (Caligari et al, 2013;Spataro et al, 2014;Hwang et al, 2014;Linse et al, 2018).…”

Oculomotor Function in Individuals With Rett Syndrome

“…There is a presumption that eye tracking technology is pertinent for individuals with RTT because of their ability to communicate with their eyes in the context of loss of purposeful hand movement. [59][60][61] Yet little research has been conducted into the functioning of the oculomotor system in RTT. For example, to consider whether this system is affected by apraxia and delayed reaction time in the same way that other body movements are affected.…”

Social and cognitive interactions through an interactive school service for RTT patients at the COVID-19 time

“…Moreover, although RTT is a complex disorder characterized by loss of purposeful hand movements and speech, regression of acquired cognitive and motor skills, RTT patients have not speci c impairments in the theory of mind (ToM) ability and the teacher's face is an additional motivating factor in attracting their attention [14]. In addition, subjects with RTT often remain visually attentive to objects and people, showing preferences to the human face and eyes, and they successfully use eye gaze to communicate [15,16]. For all these reasons, it was hypothesized that children and girls with RTT can bene t from the possibility of social and cognitive school interactions through online system, boosting their cognitive and social communication skills.…”