At the Limits of Feasibility: AI-Based Research for and with People with Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities

Introduction: Research on persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) has been limited and faces unique challenges, including accessibility, methodological issues, and ethical considerations, especially when using AI-based technologies. Negative attitudes toward technology from gatekeepers exacerbate these challenges. Methods: The text summarizes the experience of studies that explores AI's application in recognizing emotional states in individuals with PIMD through complex and multimodal data collection, including video, facial expressions, and vocalizations. Methodological challenges include the need for extensive data and the heterogeneity of the target group. AI has been utilized to interpret behaviors of people with PIMD, albeit with limitations in data processing and AI performance. Results: Ethical concerns arose regarding privacy and the comprehensiveness of data collection, impacting the participation and utility of AI in research with vulnerable populations. Conclusions: Despite substantial impediments, AI research offers potential quality-of-life benefits for people with PIMD but requires an ethically reflective approach.