Electric Assistive Technology: A Simple Definition
Electric Assistive Technology
Over one billion people need an assistive device, and that number is set to increase by 2030. this hyperlink can be store purchased; modified, for instance, adding tennis balls to a walker; or even crafted.
A few examples of assistive technology include pencil grips, ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips), and specialized keyboards. Advanced devices may also be considered, such as screen magnifiers.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is also referred to as functional electrical stimulation is a procedure that employs small electric charges to stimulate muscles that are either paralyzed or weakened due to injury such as Multiple Sclerosis or stroke. The electrical pulses trigger the muscle to perform its normal movements. This treatment can be used to improve your movement, such as 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 long been used to treat various conditions. Examples include cochlear implants to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers that assist respiration, and systems that aid in the elimination of bladders by people. It also helps reduce tremors caused due to Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation can be provided 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 adjusted to create different outcomes. The intensity of a stimulus could be a factor in the kind and the location of nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers closer to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is also an important factor. This influences the length of time a muscle is active, which could impact the rate at which fatigue develops.
While FES is effective in helping a person suffering from an injury to the spinal cord regain 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 those who are sensitive to. The electrodes are not recommended for those with skin conditions, as they can cause irritation or pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are wheelchairs with motors that utilize an electric motor and battery to assist with mobility. These wheelchairs can be controlled with the joystick or another control system. They provide more independence for those who are unable to walk. These devices let users travel further distances without the need of others. These devices can also be customized to meet the requirements of specific users.
There are a variety of power chair, including small, portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are lightweight and can be folded up to fit into small spaces. These are perfect for home use, or for smaller distances. Power chairs that are mid-sized offer an ideal balance between flexibility and durability, whereas indoor/outdoor power chairs are designed to be used outdoors, but can be adjusted to fit indoor conditions. Indoor and outdoor chairs may include grippy tires that can assist with manoeuvres over kerbs, and they could also have the ability to climb kerbs.
Assistive technology is a crucial device for people with physical impairments. It can range from voice recognition software 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 provide advanced features and customization options that are ideal for users with a range of needs.
It is best to seek out advice from a medical or physical therapist to find the ideal solution. They can suggest the ideal device for you, and help you size it correctly and show how to use it. They can also assist you in selecting the right accessories and how to integrate the equipment into your daily routine.
Railings
Often referred to simply as handrails railings run diagonally alongside stairs or ramps to offer a sturdy gripping point for those who are navigating the incline. Most building codes contain guidelines regarding the handrails' height and spacing to prevent accidents. Handrails are available in a variety of shapes and materials. Handrails that are functional and in compliance with ADA regulations have an opening for fingers on one side or both. They also need to be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also be an aid for those with visual impairments, aiding them to navigate staircases. Running their hand along the railing allows individuals to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. In emergency situations, handrails can help direct individuals to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox was created to aid seniors in remembering to take their medications. The electronic pillbox utilizes audio and visual reminders and triple alarms, to make sure seniors take their medication at the appropriate time. This technology can cut down on medication errors, which are a major cause of death among seniors. It also helps prevent overdoses that can cause death.
The device is comprised of a medicine container with compartments for every day and times of the week. It also has an electronic sensor powered by batteries that has an international mobile data connection and a set of speakers and LEDs that allow audio and visual notifications of dueness of pills. This device is intended for patients who regularly take multiple medications or vitamin supplements as well as caregivers in retirement homes and hospitals.
In the simplest model, the pillbox sensor is incorporated into the lid and monitors the condition of each compartment lid. The sensors are activated when the lid is opened by the user, and a message is transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped and stored in a circular memory buffer in the 18LF252 PIC microcontroller.
The system is designed to be easily programmed by using an external Arduino board, which controls each of the different parts. The Arduino board is responsible for emitting sound and light signals to the pillbox to notify the senior that a pill has to be taken, and wirelessly delivering the message to the caregivers. The acoustic signals as well as the light will remain on for a short period of time, and then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior has a response. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill, and the internal speaker and LEDs will be turned off.