Electric Assistive Technology
Over a billion people need an assistive device, and the number is expected to increase by 2030. These devices can be purchased; modified, for instance, adding tennis balls to a walker; or even custom made.
Some examples of assistive technology are pencil grips ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips), and specialized keyboards. More advanced devices can also be considered, including screen magnifiers.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) uses small electric charges to muscles that have become paralysed or weakened because of injury, such as from stroke or multiple sclerosis. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to move normally. This treatment helps in facilitating movement, such as grasping or walking, and it can aid in improving bladder and bowel function and decrease the chance of developing 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 caused by Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation can be delivered by electrodes that are implanted in the body or positioned 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 can be a factor in the kind and the location of nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers located nearer to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is an additional important aspect. This determines the length of time that the muscle is active, which could impact the rate at which fatigue develops.
While FES is effective in helping a person suffering from injured spinal cord recover functional movements, it isn't for all. It isn't appropriate for those who suffer from epilepsy that isn't controlled or a cancerous lesion on the area of the skin that is being stimulated, or for those who are sensitive to the sensation of the stimulation. The electrodes shouldn't be used for those with skin conditions, since they can cause irritation or even pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are wheelchairs with motors that utilize an electric motor and battery to aid with mobility. They can be controlled by an electronic joystick or other control systems. They provide greater independence to those who are not able to walk. These devices let users travel further distances without the need of other people. They can also be customized to meet the requirements of specific users.
There are many different types of power chairs, including portable and indoor/outdoor as well as mid-sized. Portable power chairs are lightweight and can be folded down to fit in small spaces. They are ideal for use at home, or for shorter distances. Mid-sized power wheelchairs offer the perfect balance between portability and durability. Indoor/outdoor powerchairs are designed to be used outside but they can also be adjusted for indoor environments. Outdoor and indoor power chairs feature grippy tyres to help with maneuvers on kerbs, and could include the ability to climb kerbs.
Assistive technology is an essential tool for those with physical disabilities. It can range from shop bought solutions like voice recognition software to specialized seating options that improve user satisfaction 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 requirements.
It is best to seek out advice from a physician or a physical therapist in order to find the ideal solution. They will be able to recommend the right device for your needs, and size it correctly and teach you how to use it. They can also assist you in choosing accessories and how to integrate the equipment into your daily activities.
Railings
Often referred to simply as handrails railings run diagonally alongside ramps or stairs to provide an effective gripping point for individuals navigating the incline. Most building codes contain guidelines regarding the handrails' height and spacing to prevent accidents. Handrails come in a variety of shapes and materials. four wheels electric mobility scooter that are functional and meet ADA regulations feature a finger recess either on one side or both. They also must be strong enough to stand up to 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also offer tactile guidance for people with visual impairments to aid them in navigating the stairs. Handrails allow individuals to feel the number or steps, curves, and landings by dragging their hands along them. Handrails can be used to direct people away from danger during emergencies.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is a smart device that helps seniors remember their medications. It utilizes triple alarms as well as visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the appropriate times. This technology can help reduce medication errors which are a major cause of death among seniors. It also helps to prevent overdoses that can be fatal.
The device is made up of a medicine container with compartments for each day and time of week, a battery-powered sensor with a mobile data connection worldwide as well as LEDs and speakers to give audio and visual notifications when pills are due. This device is designed for patients who regularly take many vitamins or medicines and caregivers in retirement homes and hospitals.
In the simplest version the sensors of the pillbox are integrated into the lid. They monitor the state of the subcompartment lids. The sensors are activated whenever the user opens a lid and a signal is sent to the microcontroller. The signal is then time-stamped and saved to an internal memory buffer that is circular in the 18LF252 PIC microcontroller.
The system can be easily reprogrammed using an external Arduino board that handles all the various components. The Arduino board is responsible for sending wireless alerts to caregivers and alerting the senior that a pill is required to be taken. The acoustic signals and light will remain on for a brief period of time, and then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior has a response. The pillbox will then dispensing the pill, and the internal speakers and LEDs will turn off.