Eye gaze technology: When your eyes become an assistive device

For many people with limited speech, eye gaze technology opens up new ways to communicate. Instead of using buttons or switches, they select letters, words, or symbols with their eyes. The selected content is then spoken aloud using a synthesized voice or displayed directly on a screen as text, an email, or a message.

Modern communication solutions often go a step further. Depending on the system, users can also access messaging apps, make video calls, or browse the internet. As a result, eye gaze technology not only supports spoken communication but also enables many people to participate more actively in everyday digital life and stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues.

Visitors to REHACARE can explore some of these possibilities at the booths of exhibitors including Tobii Dynavox, REHAVISTA, Curly Vision, and Humanelektronik. While all of these solutions are based on eye-tracking technology, they serve different purposes - from established augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices to highly individualized assistive technology solutions. The features available ultimately depend on the specific system and each user's individual needs.

Being able to get around independently is an important part of living an independent life. For people who cannot safely control a powered wheelchair with their hands or head, eye gaze technology can provide an alternative to more conventional control methods. Instead of using a joystick or head- or chin-operated controls, driving commands are triggered through intentional eye movements.

Depending on the system, powered wheelchairs can be individually configured to meet each user's needs. Modern solutions allow users to steer, accelerate, and stop their wheelchair with their eyes. Some systems even work with just one eye and, after calibration, can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Visitors to REHACARE can discover different approaches to eye-controlled mobility at the booths of exhibitors such as MEYRA, which will present its new GazeDriver, and HomeBrace. While the two companies take different approaches, both demonstrate how alternative control concepts can help people expand their mobility and gain greater independence.

Communication and mobility are no longer the only applications for eye gaze technology. Many systems now also provide access to computers and enable users to control devices in their everyday environment. Depending on the system, users can browse the internet, write documents, play media, or operate smart home technologies.

Traditional environmental control systems can also be integrated into these solutions. This allows users to operate and control devices such as televisions, telephones, lighting, adjustable care beds, and nurse call systems using only their eyes.

Exhibitors such as Humanelektronik and CSS MicroSystems demonstrate how different functions can be brought together within a single user interface. As a result, eye gaze technology can serve as a central interface for a wide range of everyday activities, allowing users to access and control multiple applications from one place.

Whether for communication, mobility, or environmental control, eye gaze technology can help reduce barriers in everyday life and support greater independence in many different situations. The most suitable solution always depends on the individual, taking into account both their abilities and personal goals.

REHACARE offers visitors the opportunity not only to discover different eye gaze systems but also to compare them side by side and discuss their questions directly with exhibitors. This makes it easier to explore the latest possibilities, gain a better understanding of the available technologies, and identify solutions that best fit individual needs.

Published on: July 21, 2026