20 Truths About Electric Assistive Technology: Busted
Electric Assistive Technology
In 2030, the number of people who need assistive devices will nearly double. These devices can be bought in shops, modified (like adding tennis balls to an existing walking aid), or even customized.
A few 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, can be considered.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) uses small electric charges to muscles that have become disabled or weakened due to injuries, such as a stroke or multiple sclerosis. The electrical impulses cause the muscle to move normally. This treatment can be used to improve movement, such a walking or grasping. It also helps improve bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk for pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation can trigger responses in excitable cells like neurons, and has been used for years to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implant to restore hearing, respiration assisters, and systems that help people empty their bladders. It can also help reduce tremors caused by Parkinson's disease. The electrical stimulation is delivered via electrodes that may be completely implanted within the body or placed on the skin without piercing the skin, known as noninvasive or percutaneous electrodes.
The intensity of stimulation can be altered to produce different outcomes. For instance, the intensity of the stimulus may affect the nature of the nerve fibers that are recruited with the larger fibers closest to the electrode being targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is another important aspect. This determines the length of time a muscle is stimulated, which may influence the speed at which fatigue develops.
While FES is effective in helping someone suffering from injured spinal cord recover functional movement, it's not suitable for everyone. It's not appropriate for people who suffer from epilepsy that is not controlled or cancerous lesions on the skin area to be stimulated, or who are hypersensitive. The electrodes are not recommended for people with poor skin conditions, since they can cause irritation or pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are motorized wheelchairs that use an electric motor and battery to assist with mobility. They can be controlled by using a joystick or control system, and can provide greater independence and access to the world for those who cannot walk. They also permit users to travel for longer distances without relying on others for assistance. Additionally, these devices can be customized and adjusted to meet the specific needs of users.
There are a variety of different types of power chairs that include portable or indoor/outdoor models, as well as a mid-sized. Portable power chairs are incredibly lightweight and fold down to fit in 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 flexibility and endurance. Outdoor and indoor powerchairs are designed to be used outside however they can be adjusted to indoor conditions. Indoor/outdoor power chairs have gripper tyres to aid maneuvers on kerbs. They also include a kerb climber.
For those who have physical limitations assistive technology is a vital tool. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software that is available in retail stores to specially designed seating that improves the user's comfort and independence. High-tech assistive technologies are typically more expensive, but they offer advanced features and customization options that are ideal for users who have a wide range of needs.
To determine the best solution for your individual needs, it's best to get a professional evaluation by a physician or a physical therapist. They can recommend the right device for you, and help you size it correctly and show how to use it. They can also help you in choosing accessories and how to integrate the equipment into your daily activities.
Railings
Often simply called handrails, railings are placed diagonally on ramps or stairs to provide an enduring gripping point for individuals navigating the incline. To prevent accidents, most construction codes contain regulations regarding the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails are available in a variety and materials. Functional handrails that meet ADA regulations include a finger recess on either or both sides. They also must be strong enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails also serve as a tactile guide for people with visual impairments, aiding them to navigate steps. Running their hand along the railing allows individuals to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. Handrails can be used to guide people away from danger in emergency situations.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox was created to help seniors remember to take their medications. It uses triple alarms and audio and visual reminders to ensure that seniors take their medications at the appropriate times. This technology can help reduce medication errors, which are the leading cause of death in seniors. motorized scooters helps in preventing overdoses, which can be fatal.
The device consists of a medicine container with different compartments for each day and time of the week, a battery powered sensor with the ability to connect to a global mobile data network and a set LEDs and speakers that can provide audio and visual notifications of the due date of a pill. This device is intended for patients who are taking several medications, vitamin supplements or both as well as caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the simplest form, the pillbox sensor is integrated into the lid and monitors the state of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated whenever the lid is opened by the user, and a signal is transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is then timestamped and stored in the memory cache that is circular to the 18LF252 microcontroller.
The system is designed to be reprogrammable by using an external Arduino board, which manages each of the different parts. The Arduino board will be in charge of emitting sound and light signals to the pillbox to notify the senior that a medication needs to be taken and wirelessly delivering the message to caregivers. The light and acoustic signals will remain on for a short amount of time, then bleep every 10 s until the senior is able to interact with the device. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill and the internal speakers and LEDs will shut off.