Paper Contents
Abstract
Speech disabilities pose significant communication barriers for individuals, affecting their ability to engage in social, educational, and occupational environments. Traditional assistive technologies such as text-to-speech applications and symbol-based communication systems offer some level of support; however, they often fail to provide real-time, intuitive, and naturalistic interaction. With advancements in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), gesture-based interfaces have emerged as a promising alternative, enabling users to convey meaning through physical movements, such as hand gestures, facial expressions, or body posture. This paper explores the design, development, and evaluation of gesture-based systems tailored specifically for individuals with speech disabilities, aiming to enhance their communicative capabilities and user autonomy .We investigate various modalities of gesture recognitionincluding vision-based tracking, wearable sensor input, and machine learning techniquesand examine how these technologies can be integrated into accessible communication tools. In doing so, we analyze existing prototypes and commercial solutions, identifying key factors that influence usability, such as gesture vocabulary, system latency, adaptability, and cultural context. Our findings indicate that gesture-based interfaces, when designed with user-centered principles, offer faster and more expressive communication pathways compared to conventional assistive devices. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and personalization in interface design. Since the motor abilities of users with speech impairments vary significantly, adaptive systems that learn and evolve with user behavior are essential. The role of artificial intelligence in enhancing recognition accuracy and user feedback mechanisms is discussed, along with challenges such as gesture ambiguity, environmental interference, and user fatigue. Ultimately, gesture-based interaction stands as a viable and impactful approach to supporting people with speech disabilities, bridging the gap between intent and expression. This research contributes to the broader discourse on accessible design in HCI and sets the stage for future innovations that prioritize dignity, efficiency, and user empowerment in assistive technologies.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 Udayasurya M. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
