Eye-Gazing Tools & Endless Possibilities

    Assistive technology is paving the way for people with disabilities. Devices are enabling people to communicate and engage in numerous activities people never thought would be possible. A prime example comes from Mr. Vamvakousis's computer program that allows individuals to play the harp with their eyes. 

    Vamvakousis realized the need for technology such as this when a dear friend of his was injured in a motorcycle accident. The two musicians were supposed to play together in a concert shortly after, and Vamvakousis was determined to make that happen. He created a computer program that enables people to play 25 different instruments. The musicians focus their gaze on a musical note to play it. The program allows approximately three to four notes to play per second. He began teaching the program to schools for children with disabilities in Barcelona. Today, thousands of people have downloaded the program and are practicing their musical talents. 

    I chose to read this article from ABC News because I found the story inspiring. Unfortunately, when people are diagnosed with a disability, it often keeps them from doing the things they want and love to do. As occupational therapists, our job is to discover ways that allow people to fulfill their hopes and dreams. Thankfully, technology is helping us bridge that gap. Last week, our neuro aspects course took a field trip to the University of Memphis. There, we worked with the speech pathology program to learn more about assistive technology used for communication. We even got to make an alternative form of communication known as an eye-gazing board. The board uses simple terms and pictures an individual can use to communicate. They can express their needs by staring at the message they want to convey. 

    Using your eyes to convey a message or play an instrument requires lots of discipline and concentration. However, many users would agree the hard work is worth it. Eye-gazing technology is becoming incorporated in gaming, security, medicine, and more. I would highly recommend this article because it reminds us that the possibilities are endless!

ABC News. (2021). Eyeharp allows woman with cerebral palsy to play music without using her hands.         ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-06-17/eyeharp-played-on-stage-in-greece/100224824

The eye-gazing board I created at the University of Memphis.