Electric Assistive Technology
Over one billion people need an assistive device and that number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be purchased in stores or modified (like adding tennis balls to a walker) or even custom-designed.
Assistive technology is comprised of ergonomic kitchen tools such as OXO Good Grip and keyboards with specialized features. 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 technique that uses tiny electric charges to muscles that are either paralyzed or weakened because of an injury such as Multiple Sclerosis or stroke. The electrical impulses stimulate the muscle to make its normal movement. This treatment helps to ease movements, like grasping or walking. it can also improve the function of the bladder and bowel and decrease the risk of pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation can trigger responses in excitable cells such as neurons, and has been used for years to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers used to aid in respiration, and systems to aid in the elimination of bladders by people. It can also reduce tremors that are caused by Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation is delivered by electrodes that can be implanted within the body or they can be placed on the skin without piercing the skin, referred to as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous.
motorized scooters of the stimulation can be controlled to create different outcomes. The intensity of a stimulus can, for example, influence the type and location of nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers located nearer to the electrode are targeted first. Another factor to consider is the duration of the stimulation. This can impact the intensity of fatigue by affecting the length of time that the muscle is activated.
Although FES can be beneficial 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 or cancerous lesions on the skin area to be stimulated or those who are hypersensitive. It's not recommended for people who suffer from a poor skin condition because the self-adhesive electrodes can lead to irritation or pressure injury.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a type of motorized wheelchair that use an electric motor and battery to aid mobility. They can be controlled using the joystick or another control system. They offer greater independence to those who are unable to walk. They also allow users to travel longer distances without having to rely on others for assistance. Additionally, these devices can be adapted and customized to meet the specific needs of users.
There are a variety of power chairs, including portable, indoor/outdoor and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely light and can fold to fit in small spaces. These are perfect for use at home, or for shorter distances. Power wheelchairs that are mid-sized offer a balance of flexibility and endurance. Indoor/outdoor powerchairs are designed to be used outdoors but they can also be adjusted for indoor use. Indoor/outdoor power chairs have gripper tyres to aid maneuvers on kerbs. They also include the ability to climb kerbs.
Assistive technology is a crucial tool for those who have physical impairments. It ranges from store purchased solutions such as voice recognition software to more specialized seating options that enhance the user's satisfaction and independence. High-tech assistive technologies are typically more expensive but offer advanced features and customization options that are suitable for people with a range of needs.
To find the right solution for your specific needs, it is best to seek a professional opinion from a doctor or physical therapist. They can recommend the right equipment for you, assist you size it correctly and demonstrate how to use it. They can also assist you in choosing accessories and integrating the equipment into your daily activities.
Railings
Sometimes referred to as handrails, railings are positioned diagonally along stairs or ramps to offer an enduring grasping point for people who are on the incline. Most building codes include requirements regarding the height and spacing for handrails to avoid accidents. Handrails can be designed to an easily graspable shape or made of materials that are easy to grasp. Functional handrails that meet ADA regulations have a finger recess on either or both sides. They also must be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for people with visual impairments to assist them in navigating steps. Running their hand along the railing allows individuals to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. Handrails can be used to direct people away from danger during emergencies.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is a sophisticated device that helps seniors remember their medication. The electronic pillbox uses audio and visual reminders and triple alarms to ensure that seniors take their medications at the right time. This technology can lower the risk of medication errors, which are one of the most common causes of death among seniors. It also helps to prevent overdoses, which could be fatal.
The device is made up of a medication container that comes with different compartments for every day and time of week as well as a battery-powered sensor that has an international mobile data connection as well as LEDs and speakers to notify users via audio or visual signals when the pills are due. This device is aimed at patients who are taking multiple medications, vitamin supplements or both, as well as caregivers at hospitals and retirement homes.
In the simplest model the pillbox sensor is built 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 sent to the microcontroller. The signal is then time-stamped and saved to the circular memory buffer of the 18LF252 PIC microcontroller.
The system is easily reprogrammed with an external Arduino board that handles all the different parts. The Arduino board is responsible for emitting light and sound 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 short period of time, then bleep every 10 s until the senior has a conversation with the device. The pillbox will then dispensing the pill and the internal speaker and LEDs will shut off.