Electric Assistive Technology
Over a billion people need an assistive device and that number is set to double by 2030. These devices can be store purchased; modified, for instance, adding tennis balls to a walker or even custom made.
Some examples of assistive technology include pencil grips ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips) and keyboards that are specialized. Other devices, like screen magnifiers, could be considered.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES), also known as functional electrical stimulation is a procedure that employs tiny electric charges to muscles that are either paralyzed or weakened because of an injury such as Multiple Sclerosis or a stroke. Read More Listed here stimulate the muscle to perform its normal movement. This treatment can be used to improve movement, such a walking or grasping. It can also help improve the bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk for pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation can elicit responses in excitable cells, such as neurons, and has long been used to treat a variety of ailments. Examples include cochlear implant to restore hearing, respiration assisters, and systems that help people void their bladder. It can also help reduce tremors that are caused by Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation can be provided by electrodes that are implanted into the body or placed on the skin's surface without cutting the skin. These electrodes are known as noninvasive or percutaneous electrodes.
The intensity of the stimulation can be controlled to produce different outcomes. The intensity of a stimulus can, for example, influence the kind and the location of nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers close to the electrode are targeted first. Another factor to consider is the duration of the stimulation. This affects the amount of time a muscle is stimulated, which may influence the speed at which fatigue occurs.
Although FES can be beneficial in helping someone suffering from a spinal cord injury regain functional movement, it's not for all. It's not suitable for people who suffer from epilepsy that isn't controlled or a cancerous lesion that covers the area of the skin to be stimulated, or are hypersensitive to the sensation of stimulation. The electrodes aren't recommended for people with poor skin conditions, as they could cause irritation or pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a form of motorized chair that uses an electric battery and motor to aid mobility. They can be controlled using a joystick or control system, and offer greater independence and access to the world for people who are unable to walk. They also allow users to travel further distances without having to rely on others for assistance. In addition they can be customized and adjusted to meet the specific needs of users.
There are a variety of power chairs, including the portable, indoor/outdoor and middle-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely lightweight and fold up to fit into small spaces. They are great for daily household use or for riding shorter distances. Power wheelchairs that are mid-sized offer the perfect balance between mobility and durability. Indoor/outdoor powerchairs are designed for outdoor use however they can be adjusted to indoor conditions. Indoor/outdoor chairs may have grippy tires to assist with manoeuvres over kerbs, and they may also include the ability to climb kerbs.
Assistive technology is a vital device for people with physical limitations. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software sold in stores, to specialized seating that enhances the user's comfort and independence. High-tech assistive technologies are typically more expensive but offer advanced features and customizable options that are perfect for those who have a wide range of requirements.
It is recommended to seek professional advice from a medical or physical therapist to determine the best solution. They can recommend the best equipment for your needs, size it appropriately and show you how to operate it. They can also help you select accessories and integrate the equipment into your daily routine.
Railings
Often referred to simply as handrails railings are placed diagonally on ramps or stairs to provide an effective gripping point for individuals navigating the incline. To prevent accidents, most building codes have rules regarding the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails can be designed to an easily graspable shape or made out of materials that are simple to grip. Functional handrails that comply with ADA regulations feature a finger recess on either or both sides. They must also be strong enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also provide tactile guidance to people with visual impairments to aid them in navigating the stairs. Handrails enable people to feel the number or steps or curves, as well as landings by dragging their hands along them. In times of emergency handrails can assist in directing individuals to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox was created to assist seniors in remembering to take their medication. The electronic pillbox incorporates visual and audio reminders, as well as triple alarms to ensure that seniors take their medications at the appropriate time. This technology can reduce the chance of errors in taking medication which are among the most common causes of death among seniors. It also helps prevent overdoses, which could be fatal.
The device is comprised of a medicine container with compartments for every day and time of the week, an electronic sensor powered by batteries that has a global mobile data connection and a set of speakers and LEDs that allow audio and visual notifications of dueness of pills. This device is specifically designed for patients who frequently take multiple medications or vitamin supplements and caregivers in retirement homes and hospitals.
In the most basic version, the pillbox sensors are integrated into the lid. They monitor the status of the subcompartment lids. The sensors are activated whenever a lid is opened by a user and a message sent to microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped before being stored in the circular memory buffer of the 18LF252 PIC microcontroller.
The system is designed to be easily programmed with the use of an external Arduino board, which controls each of the different parts. The Arduino board is responsible for wireless notifications to caregivers and letting the senior know that a pill is required to be taken. The acoustic signals and light will remain on for a brief duration, and then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior interacts. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill and the internal speakers and LEDs will turn off.