Electric Assistive Technology
Over one billion people need aidive devices and that number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be purchased in stores, modified (like adding tennis balls to a walking aid) or even custom-designed.
A few examples of assistive technology are 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) is also referred to as functional electrical stimulation is a technique that uses tiny electric charges to muscles that are paralysed or weakened due to injury, such as Multiple Sclerosis or a stroke. The electrical impulses allow the muscle to move normally. This treatment is able to improve your movement, such as walking or grasping. It also helps improve the bladder, bowel, and reduce the chance of pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation has been used for many years to treat various ailments. Examples include cochlear implant to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers that assist respiration, and systems to aid in the elimination of bladders by people. It can also reduce the tremors caused by Parkinson's. The electrical stimulation is delivered via electrodes that can be implanted in the body, or placed on the skin without piercing the skin, which is known as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous.
The intensity of stimulation can be adjusted to produce different outcomes. For instance, the intensity of the stimulus can influence the type of nerve fibers recruited and the fibers that are closer to the electrode being targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is also an important aspect. This determines the length of time the muscle is activated, which can influence the speed at which fatigue develops.
FES isn't suitable for everyone. It can be effective in helping someone with a spinal injury regain their functional movements. It's not suitable for those who suffer from epilepsy that is not controlled and cancerous lesions that are on the skin to be stimulated or those who are oversensitive. It's also not recommended for those who suffer from a poor skin condition because the self-adhesive electrodes may cause irritation or pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a kind of motorized wheelchair that use an electric battery and motor to aid in mobility. They can be maneuvered with a joystick or a control system, and offer greater independence and access to the world for those who cannot walk. These devices allow users to travel further distances without the need of others. Additionally they can be adapted and customized to meet specific user requirements.
There are a variety of different kinds of power chair such as portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely lightweight and fold down to fit in small spaces. These are perfect for use at home, or for smaller distances. Power chairs that are mid-sized offer a balance between durability and portability, while outdoor and indoor power chairs are made for use outside but can be adjusted to suit indoor environments. Indoor/outdoor chairs may include grippy tires that can assist with maneuvers over kerbs and they might also come with a kerb-climber.
For people with physical disabilities assistive technology is a crucial tool. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software that is available in stores to specially designed seating that improves the comfort and independence of users. The most advanced assistive technology is usually more expensive, but they offer advanced features and customizable options that are ideal for users with a range of needs.
To find the right solution for your individual requirements, it is recommended to seek a professional opinion from a doctor or physical therapist. They will be able to recommend the best device for your needs, and size it appropriately and show you how to use it. They can also assist you in selecting the right accessories and integrate the device into your daily activities.
Railings
Sometimes referred to as handrails, railings are placed diagonally on ramps or stairs to provide an effective gripping point for those who are navigating the slope. To prevent accidents, most construction codes contain regulations regarding the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails are available in a variety of forms and materials. Functional handrails that meet ADA regulations have the finger recess on one or both sides. They must also be strong enough to stand up to 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for those with visual impairments. They can assist them in navigating steps. By running their hands along the railing allows individuals to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. Handrails can be used to guide people away from danger during emergencies.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is an intelligent device that is designed to assist seniors remember their medications. It uses triple alarms and visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the correct time. This technology can reduce the chance of errors in taking medication which are among the leading causes of deaths among seniors. It can also help to prevent fatal overdoses.
The device consists of a medicine container with different compartments for each day and the time of the week, an electronic sensor powered by batteries that has the ability to connect to a global mobile data network and a set speakers and LEDs that allow audio and visual notifications of dueness of pills. Full Guide is designed for patients who take many vitamins or medicines and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the simplest form the pillbox sensor is built in the lid and it monitors the condition of each compartment lid. The sensors are activated whenever a lid is opened by the user and a message sent to microcontroller. The signal is timestamped and stored in the circular memory cache of the microcontroller 18LF252.
The system is designed to be reprogrammable with the use of an external Arduino board, which controls all the various components. The Arduino board is responsible for emitting light and sound signals for the pillbox to inform the senior that a pill needs to be taken and wirelessly sending the notification to caregivers. The light and acoustic signals will remain on for a brief period of time, then bleep every 10 s until the senior interacts with the device. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill and the internal speakers and LEDs will shut off.