Assistive Technology Enabling Communication

This project furthers development of an effective early-stage assistive communication device for patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The wearable assistive communication device uses electromyography (EMG) signals to empower users with ALS and other neuromuscular disabilities to control household devices (e.g. computers) and communicate within their environment. Increasing the capability for interaction between the ALS patient and caregivers and clinical team members enables a dynamic, multidisciplinary care environment. This in turn thoroughly addresses the changing needs of an ALS patient. Specifically, this project measures the ability to reliably capture surface electromyography signals from users with neuromuscular disabilities, determines best practices for storing such data, and measures user acceptability of the device. The data provides physicians with the opportunity to track patient EMG signals over time and to gain a deeper understanding of the changes in muscular ability. Additionally, the human research study acquires a more relevant data set as the study group incorporates participants with and without neuromuscular disabilities. Neurologists will provide insight into the best representation of this EMG and muscular tracking data as well. This ensures the patient data is accurately represented and easily accessible to clinical representatives.