An Acoustic Orientation System to Promote Independent Indoor Travel in Blind Persons with Severe Mental Retardation

Abstract

An acoustic orientation system was devised to promote independent indoor travel in blind persons with mental retardation. The system was assessed with four blind adolescents, all affected by severe mental retardation. Data showed that the system was very useful in helping those adolescents orient and move independently in their daily environment and in a new (generalization) setting. The findings are discussed in relation to the characteristics of the system.