Electric Assistive Technology

Over a billion people need an assistive device and that number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be bought in shops or even modified (like adding tennis balls to an existing walker), or even customized.

Assistive technology can include ergonomic kitchen tools like OXO Good Grip, and specialized keyboards. Other advanced devices could be considered, like screen magnifiers.

Functional electrical stimulation

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is also referred to as functional electrical stimulation is a method that relies on small electric charges on muscles that are paralysed or weakened due to an injury such as a stroke or Multiple Sclerosis. The electrical impulses cause the muscle to move normally. This treatment is able 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 trigger reactions in excitable cells like neurons, and has been used for a long time to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers used to aid respiration, and systems to help people void the bladder. It also helps 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 penetrating the skin, known as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous.

The intensity of the stimulation can be controlled to produce different results. The intensity of a stimulus may affect, for instance, the nature and location of the nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers nearer to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is also an important aspect. This influences the length of time the muscle is activated, which can influence the speed at which fatigue develops.

While FES can be effective in helping someone suffering from injured spinal cord recover functional movements, it's not suitable for everyone. It's not recommended for people with epilepsy that isn't controlled and cancerous lesions that are on the skin to be stimulated, or who are oversensitive. The electrodes shouldn't be used for people with poor skin conditions, since they could cause irritation or pressure injuries.

Power chairs

Power chairs are motorized wheelchairs that use an electric motor and battery to help with mobility. They can be controlled with a joystick, or other control system. They provide more independence for those who are unable to walk. These devices enable users to travel further distances without the need of others. They can be customized to meet the requirements of particular users.

There are many different kinds of power chair such as portable and indoor/outdoor as well as mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely lightweight and can be folded in order to fit into tiny spaces. They are ideal for use at home, or for shorter distances. Power wheelchairs that are mid-sized offer the perfect balance between portability and durability. Indoor and outdoor powerchairs are made to be used outside, but can also be adjusted for indoor use. Outdoor and indoor power chairs feature grippy tyres to help with maneuvers on kerbs. They also include a kerb climber.

Assistive technology is a vital tool for those who have physical limitations. It can range from store bought solutions, such as voice recognition software to more specialized seating options that enhance the user's comfort and independence. The most advanced assistive technology is usually more expensive, but they offer advanced features and customizable options that are suitable for people who have a wide range of requirements.


It is recommended that you seek advice from a medical or a physical therapist in order to find the right solution. They will recommend the best equipment for you, assist you select the correct size and show how to use it. They can also help in selecting accessories and integrating the equipment into your daily routine.

Railings

Often referred to simply as handrails railings are placed diagonally on ramps or stairs to provide an enduring grasping point for people who are on the incline. To prevent accidents, the majority of construction codes contain regulations regarding the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails come in a variety of forms and materials. Functional handrails that comply with ADA regulations include an opening for fingers on one or both sides. all terrain electric mobility scooter must be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.

Handrails can also be a tactile guide for people with visual impairments, aiding them to climb staircases. Running their hand along the railing allows individuals to feel the number of steps, curves or landings. In the event of an emergency, handrails can help direct individuals to safe exit routes.

Electronic pillboxes

The electronic pillbox is a smart device designed to help seniors remember their medication. The electronic pillbox uses visual and audio reminders and triple alarms, to ensure seniors take their medication at the appropriate time. This technology can reduce the risk of medication errors, which are one of the most common causes of death among seniors. It also helps avoid fatal overdoses.

The device is made up of a medicine container that comes with different compartments for daily use and time of week, a battery-powered sensor with the ability to connect to mobile data worldwide as well as LEDs and speakers to provide visual/audible notifications when the pills are due. This device is intended for patients who regularly take multiple medications or vitamin supplements and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.

In the most basic model the pillbox sensor is incorporated into the lid and monitors the condition of each compartment lid. The sensors are triggered whenever the lid is opened and a signal transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped before being saved to a circular memory buffer in the microcontroller 18LF252 PIC.

The system is designed to be easily reprogrammed with the use of an external Arduino board, which controls every component. The Arduino board is responsible for emitting sound and light signals for the pillbox to let the senior know that a pill needs to be taken, and wirelessly sending the notification to the caregivers. The acoustic and light signals will be on for a brief period of time, then it will bleep every 10 seconds until the senior interacts with the device. The pillbox will then release the pill and the LEDs as well as the internal speaker will turn off.