Verneeda Moore has a big smile as she takes off just a bit too fast.
“Let’s turn the speed down a bit,” Kara Cain said with a laugh.
Moore has Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis — a disease better known by its acronym ALS, which results in the loss of muscle control throughout the body. She is trying out new technology that allows her to move her wheelchair using her eye gaze. The multidisciplinary care team at Novant Health’s ALS Clinic is assisting her. Team members include a physician; a registered dietitian; occupational, physical, speech and respiratory therapists; and staff from NuMotion, a provider of mobility products.
Cain, a physical therapist with Novant Health, explained Moore had used a motorized wheelchair before coming to Novant’s ALS Clinic in Wilmington.
“At the time she transferred down to our clinic, she had a power wheelchair that she was originally able to drive but then lost use of her arms and could no longer drive the wheelchair,” Cain explained.
The staff, however, knew about Tobii Dynavox technology, which uses an augmentative communication device to assist patients.
“It allows you to use your eye gaze to type out the things that you need to say when it’s difficult for people to understand your speech,” Cain said.
That same eye-tracking software used for communication can also help patients control their wheelchairs when patients fix their eyes on a virtual joystick on the screen. Cain, who has been a physical therapist for more than 30 years, said technology has made a “tremendous” difference in the lives of those with ALS.
While the technology can take some getting used to, Cain said Moore is adjusting well.
“You have to focus,” Moore said, moving her wheelchair forward.
Moore is now able to adjust her position, and if someone opens the door for her, she can go visit her neighbors.
“This technology has been a huge, huge leap forward to give a person their independence for as long as they can,” Cain said. “We want people to have their autonomy, so this has been a great advance in that way.”
Moore can also use the tool to communicate with others more clearly, and she can go on the internet and send emails. But Moore said there is one thing she is most excited about.
“I can shop on Amazon,” she said.
Cain added that Moore is also very resourceful and has used the tool to advocate for herself by researching programs and grants.
“Because if you don’t do it yourself, it won’t get done,” Moore said, laughing.
Moore said she is grateful for the staff at the ALS clinic and the technology that’s helping her be more independent, and for those battling ALS, she has a bit of advice.
“Make the best of every day,” she said.
Renee Spencer is the community engagement editor at the StarNews. Reach her at rspencer@gannett.com.
