Electric Assistive Technology
More than one billion people require an assistive device, and that number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be purchased, modified, such as adding tennis balls to a walker; or even made to order.
A few examples of assistive technology include pencil grips, ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips) and keyboards with specialized features. Other devices, such as screen magnifiers, can be considered.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) uses small electric charges to muscles that have become paralysed or weakened because of injury, for example, stroke or multiple sclerosis. The electrical pulses allow the muscle to move normally. This treatment is able to improve movement, such walking or grasping. It also helps improve bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk of pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation has been used for a long time to treat various conditions. Examples include cochlear implant to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers to aid breathing, and systems that assist people in removing their bladder. It also helps reduce the tremors associated with Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation is delivered by electrodes that can be implanted in the body, or placed on the skin without piercing the skin, known as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous.
The intensity of stimulation can be altered to produce different outcomes. The intensity of a stimulus can, for example, influence the type and location of nerve fibers targeted. The fibers that are larger and close to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is an additional important aspect. This influences the length of time that the muscle is stimulated, which may affect the speed at which fatigue occurs.
Although FES can be beneficial in helping someone suffering from an injury to the spinal cord regain functional movements, it's not for everyone. It isn't appropriate for those with epilepsy that isn't controlled, or a cancerous lesions on the area of the skin that is being stimulated, or for those who are oversensitive to the sensation of stimulation. The electrodes aren't recommended for those suffering from skin conditions as they could cause irritation or even pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are wheelchairs with motors that utilize an electric motor and battery to help with mobility. electric mobility scooters for adults can be controlled using the joystick or another control systems. They offer greater independence to those who are not able to walk. They also let users travel longer distances without relying on others to assist. These devices can also be customized to meet the requirements of specific users.
There are a variety of power chairs, including the portable, indoor/outdoor and middle-sized. Portable power chairs are light and can fold to fit in small spaces. They are ideal for home use, or for smaller distances. Mid-sized power wheelchairs offer a balance of flexibility and endurance. Indoor and outdoor powerchairs are made for outdoor use but they can also be adjusted to indoor conditions. Indoor/outdoor chairs may have grippy tires to assist in maneuvering over kerbs and they may also include a kerb-climber.
For those with physical disabilities, assistive technology is an essential tool. It can range 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 technology is often more expensive, but offers advanced features and customization capabilities that are ideal for a wide range of needs.
It is recommended to seek advice from a physician or physical therapist to find the right solution. They can suggest the most suitable device to meet your needs, the right size it correctly, and teach you how to use it. They can also assist you in selecting the right accessories and integrating the equipment into your daily routine.
Railings
Often referred to simply as handrails railings run diagonally alongside ramps or stairs to provide a sturdy gripping point for individuals navigating the slope. Most building codes contain guidelines regarding the handrails' height and spacing to avoid accidents. Handrails can be made into an easy-to-hold shape or constructed from materials that are easy to grasp. Handrails that are functional and in compliance with ADA regulations feature a recess for the fingers, either on one side or both. electric mobility scooters for adults should also be sturdy enough to support 200 pounds of force.
Handrails also serve as a tactile guide for people who have visual impairments, assisting them to climb steps. By running their hands along the railing allows people to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. In the event of an emergency handrails can assist in directing individuals to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox was developed to assist seniors in remembering to take their medication. It has triple alarms and visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their medication at the correct time. This technology can help reduce medication errors which are a leading cause of death in seniors. It also helps prevent fatal overdoses.
The device consists of a container for medication with compartments for every day and times of the week. It also has a battery powered sensor with an international mobile data connection and a set of LEDs and speakers that can provide visual/audible notifications of pill dueness. This device is specifically designed for patients who take several vitamins or medications as well as caregivers in retirement homes and hospitals.
In the simplest version the sensors for the pillbox are integrated into the lid. They monitor the state of the lids for the subcompartment. The sensors are activated every time the lid is opened by a user and a message is transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped and stored in a circular memory buffer in the 18LF252 microcontroller.
The system is designed to be reprogrammable with the use of an external Arduino board, which is responsible for all the various components. The Arduino board is responsible for wireless notifications to caregivers and also letting the senior know that a pill is required to be taken. The acoustic and light signals will remain on for a short amount of time, then it will bleep every 10 s until the senior has a conversation with the device. The pillbox will then begin dispensing the pill and the internal speaker and LEDs will shut off.