Assistive technology for communicational accessibility in Machado-Joseph disease

Abstract

Machado Joseph Disease (MJD), or type 3 spinocerebellar ataxia, is a neurodegenerative and autosomal dominant disease, which manifests with progressive ataxia, gait imbalance, diplopia and phonation disorders that result in accessibility barriers. This study aims to propose interventions to improve communicational accessibility in a 53-year-old patient with MJD. Data collection was performed after informed consent and the patient was followed-up for over one year, including assessment of quality of life and semi-structured interviews conducted with the patient, family members, and caregiver. The main difficulties were diplopia, motor coordination problems, and slowed speech. Based on the results, interventions were proposed based on the patient's needs and scientific literature to enhance her communicational accessibility. Among these interventions, highlights include the use of Google Assistant, increasing zoom and font size on the smartphone, and replacing typed texts with audio recordings, which improved the patient's communication, considering the disease stage, with an impact on quality of life. It is concluded that MJD is a disabling condition underrepresented in accessibility research. However, the importance of continuous research to adjust strategies to the progression of the disease and new communication needs over time is emphasized.Mostrar mais