Electric Assistive Technology
Over a billion people need an assistive device, and that number is set to increase by 2030. These devices can be bought in shops, modified (like adding tennis balls to a walking aid) or even custom-designed.
Some examples of assistive technology include pencil grips, ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips), and specialized keyboards. Other advanced devices could be considered, including screen magnifiers.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) uses small electrical charges to muscles that have become disabled or weak due to injury, such as from multiple sclerosis or a stroke. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to make its normal movement. This treatment is used to facilitate movements, like grasping or walking, and it can help improve bladder and bowel function and reduce the chance of developing pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation can elicit responses in excitable cells such as neurons, and it has been used for years to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants that restore hearing, respiration assisters and systems to assist people void their bladder. It can also help reduce the tremors associated with Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation can be delivered by electrodes that are implanted inside the body or placed on the surface of the skin without piercing the skin. These electrodes are referred to as percutaneous or noninvasive electrodes.
The intensity of the stimulation can be controlled to produce different outcomes. The amplitude of a stimulus can be a factor in the kind and the location of nerve fibers targeted. The fibers that are larger and nearer to the electrode are targeted first. Another crucial aspect is the duration of the stimulation. This determines the length of time that the muscle is stimulated, which may impact the rate of fatigue.
FES isn't suitable for all. It can be very effective in helping someone with an injury to their spine recover their functional movements. It isn't appropriate for those who suffer from epilepsy that isn't controlled or a cancerous lesions on the area of the skin that is being stimulated, or are hypersensitive to the sensation of stimulation. It's not recommended for people who have poor skin condition, as the self-adhesive electrodes could cause irritation or pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a kind of motorized chair that uses an electric motor and battery to aid mobility. They can be maneuvered with a joystick or a control system, and provide greater independence and access to the world for individuals who cannot walk. They also let users travel for longer distances without relying on others for assistance. In addition, these devices can be customized and adapted to accommodate specific user needs.
There are many kinds of power chair, such as small, portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely light and can fold to fit in small spaces. They are perfect for everyday home use, or for shorter riding distances. Mid-sized power wheelchairs offer a balance of mobility and durability. Indoor/outdoor powerchairs are designed for outdoor use but they can also be adjusted to indoor conditions. Indoor and outdoor chairs may feature grippy tires to help with manoeuvres over kerbs, and they may also include an kerb-climber.
For those who have physical limitations assistive technology is an essential tool. It can range from voice recognition software that is sold in stores, to specialized seating that enhances the comfort and independence of users. High-tech assistive technology can be more expensive, but it comes with advanced features and customizable capabilities that are ideal for a variety of user needs.
To determine the best solution to meet your needs, it's best to get a professional evaluation by a physician or a physical therapist. Read More Listed here can recommend the right device for you, and help you size it correctly and show how to use it. They can also assist you to choose accessories and integrate the device to your everyday activities.
Read More Listed here are commonly referred to as handrails. They are a diagonal line that runs across ramps or stairs. They provide a solid grasping point for those who are navigating the slope. Most building codes contain guidelines regarding the height and spacing for handrails to avoid accidents. Handrails can be molded to an easy-to-hold shape or constructed from materials that are easy to grip. Handrails that are functional and meet ADA regulations feature an opening for fingers on one or both sides. They must also be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also offer tactile guidance for individuals with visual impairments to aid them in navigating stairs. By running their hands along the railing allows people to feel the number of steps, curves or landings. In the event of an emergency, handrails can help direct people to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is a smart device that is designed to assist seniors remember their medication. It has triple alarms and audio and visual reminders to ensure that seniors take their medication at the correct time. This technology can help reduce medication errors, which are a major cause of death among seniors. It also helps to prevent overdoses, which could cause death.
The device consists of a medicine container with compartments for every day and the time of the week, battery-powered sensor with the ability to connect to a global mobile data network and a set LED and speaker to enable audio and visual notifications of the due date of a pill. This device is intended for patients who take several medications, vitamin supplements or both and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the most basic model, the pillbox sensor is built in the lid and it monitors the status of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated whenever the lid is opened by a user, and a message is sent to the microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped before being saved to an internal memory buffer that is circular in the microcontroller 18LF252 PIC.
The system is designed to be easily reprogrammed with the use of an external Arduino board, which manages every component. The Arduino board will be in charge of emitting light and sound signals for the pillbox to notify the senior that a medication needs to be taken, and wirelessly transmitting the message to caregivers. The light and acoustic signals will remain on for a short period of time, and then bleep every 10 s until the senior is able to interact with the device. The pillbox will then release the pill and the LEDs as well as the internal speaker will shut off.