Electric Assistive Technology

More than one billion people require an assistive device and the number is expected to double 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 include pencil grips, ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips), and specialized keyboards. 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 procedure that employs small electric charges on muscles that are paralysed or weakened because of an injury, such as Multiple Sclerosis or a stroke. The electrical impulses stimulate the muscle to make its usual movement. This treatment is used to facilitate movements, like grasping or walking, and it can aid in improving the function of the bladder and bowel and reduce the chance of developing pressure sores.

Electrical stimulation has been utilized for many years to treat various conditions. Examples include cochlear implants that help with hearing, respiration assisters, and systems that help people empty their bladders. It can also reduce the tremors associated with Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation can be delivered via electrodes that are inserted inside the body or placed on the skin's surface without cutting the skin. These electrodes are referred to as percutaneous electrodes that are non-invasive.

Highly recommended Online site of the stimulation can be controlled to produce different outcomes. The intensity of a stimulus could affect, for instance, the type and location of nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers located close to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is another important aspect. Read More In this article can impact the intensity of fatigue by impacting the duration that the muscle is activated.

Although FES can be beneficial in helping a person with injured spinal cord recover functional movements, it isn't suitable for all. It's not recommended for people with epilepsy that isn't controlled, or a cancerous lesion on the area of the skin that is being stimulated, or who are oversensitive to the sensations of stimulation. It is also not recommended for those who have poor skin condition because the self-adhesive electrodes can lead to irritation or pressure injuries.

Power chairs

Power chairs are motorized wheelchairs that use an electric motor and battery to aid with mobility. They can be maneuvered by using a joystick or control system, and provide greater independence and accessibility to the world for people who are unable to walk. These devices allow users to travel further distances without the need of others. These devices can be customized to meet the requirements of particular users.

There are a variety of different types of power chairs that include portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely light and can be folded in order to fit into tiny spaces. These are perfect for use at home, or for shorter distances. The mid-sized power chairs provide the perfect balance of durability and portability, while the outdoor and indoor power chairs are designed to be used outdoors, but can be adjusted to suit indoor environments. Indoor/outdoor chairs may have grippy tires to assist in maneuvering over kerbs and they might also come with an kerb-climber.

For people with physical disabilities assistive technology is a vital tool. It can range from voice recognition software available in stores to specialized seating that increases the comfort and independence of users. High-tech assistive technology can be more expensive, but offers advanced features and capabilities for customization that are suitable for a variety of user needs.

It is recommended that you seek out advice from a doctor or a physical therapist in order to find the right solution. They can recommend the right equipment for your needs, size it appropriately and show you how to operate it. They can also help you choose accessories and integrate the device with your daily activities.

Railings

Railings are commonly referred to as handrails. They run diagonally across ramps or stairs. They provide a solid gripping point for people navigating the incline. Most building codes include requirements regarding the handrails' height and spacing to help prevent accidents. Handrails come in a variety of shapes and materials. Handrails that are functional and meet ADA regulations have a recess for the fingers, either on one side or both. They must also be strong enough for 200 pounds of force.

Handrails are also a tactile guide for those with visual impairments, aiding them to climb staircases. Moving their hands 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 was created to aid seniors in remembering to take their medications. It uses triple alarms and visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the right times. This technology can lower the risk of medication errors which are among the most common causes of deaths among seniors. It can also help to prevent fatal overdoses.

The device is comprised of a medicine container with compartments for every day and the time of the week, battery-powered sensor with the ability to connect to a global mobile data network and a set of LED and speaker to enable visual/audible notifications of pill dueness. This device is intended for patients who regularly take many vitamins or medicines and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.

In the simplest model, the pillbox sensor is built inside the lid and is able to monitor the condition of each compartment lid. The sensors are activated whenever the lid is opened by the user, and a message is sent to the microcontroller. The signal is timestamped and stored in the memory cache that is circular to the microcontroller 18LF252.

The system is designed to be easily reprogrammed with the use of an external Arduino board, which is responsible for every component. The Arduino board is responsible for emitting light and sound signals for the pillbox to inform the senior that a medication needs to be taken and wirelessly delivering the message to caregivers. The acoustic and light signals will stay on for a brief period of time, then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior interacts with the device. The pillbox will then begin dispensing the pill, and the internal speakers and LEDs will turn off.