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 even modified (like adding tennis balls to an existing walking aid) or even custom-designed.
Assistive technology is comprised of ergonomic kitchen tools, such as OXO Good Grip and keyboards that are specialized. Other devices, like screen magnifiers, can be considered.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is also referred to as functional electrical stimulation is a method that relies on small electric charges to stimulate muscles that are weak or weakened due to injury, such as Multiple Sclerosis or stroke. The electrical impulses induce the muscle to move normally. This treatment is able to improve movement, such the ability to walk or grasp. It can also help improve the bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk for pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation has been utilized for a long time to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implant to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers used to assist breathing, and systems that help people void the bladder. It also helps reduce tremors caused by Parkinson's disease. The electrical stimulation is delivered via electrodes that can be implanted within the body or they can be placed on the skin without penetration the skin, which is known as percutaneous or noninvasive electrodes.
The intensity of the stimulation can be adjusted to produce different results. For example, the amplitude of the stimulus may affect the type of nerve fibers recruited with the larger fibers closest to the electrode being targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is an additional crucial factor. This affects the amount of time a muscle is stimulated, which may impact the rate of fatigue.
FES isn't suitable for everyone. It can be efficient in helping someone suffering from a spinal injury regain their functional movements. It's not suitable for people with epilepsy that isn't controlled, or a cancerous lesion that covers the the skin that is being stimulated, or who are oversensitive to the sensations of stimulation. The electrodes shouldn't be used for those with skin conditions as they could cause irritation or pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are motorized wheelchairs that make use of an electric motor and battery to assist with mobility. They can be controlled by an electronic joystick or other control system. They provide greater independence to those who are unable to walk. They also let users travel longer distances without relying on others for help. Additionally, these devices can be customized and adjusted to accommodate specific user needs.
There are a variety of different kinds of power chairs that include portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely lightweight and fold up to fit into small spaces. They are ideal for home use, or for short distances. Power wheelchairs that are mid-sized 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 use. Indoor and outdoor chairs may include grippy tires that can assist with manoeuvres over kerbs, and they might also come with a kerb-climber.
Assistive technology is a crucial tool for those who have physical disabilities. It can range from shop purchased solutions such as voice recognition software, to specialized seating options that increase comfort and independence. High-tech assistive technologies are often more expensive but offer advanced features and customizable options that are suitable for people who have a wide range of needs.
To find the ideal solution for your individual needs, it's 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 show how to use it. They can also assist you to choose accessories and integrate the device to your everyday activities.
Railings
Often referred to simply as handrails railings are placed diagonally on stairs or ramps to offer an effective gripping point for individuals navigating the incline. To prevent accidents, most building codes have rules regarding the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails can be molded to an easy-to-hold shape or constructed from materials that are easy to hold. Handrails that are functional and in compliance with ADA regulations have an opening for fingers on one side or both. They should also be strong enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails also serve as an aid for those who have visual impairments, assisting them to climb staircases. Handrails enable people to feel the number or steps as well as landings, curves, and stairs by running their hand along them. In emergency situations, handrails can help direct individuals to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is an intelligent device that helps seniors remember their medications. The electronic pillbox utilizes visual and audio reminders and triple alarms, to ensure seniors take their medications at the right time. This technology can lower the chance of errors in taking medication which are among the most common causes of deaths among seniors. It can also help stop fatal overdoses.
The device consists of a medicine container that has different compartments for every day and weekday times, a battery-powered sensor with the ability to connect to mobile data worldwide, and LEDs and speakers to notify users via audio or visual signals when the pills are due. This device is specifically designed for patients who regularly take many vitamins or medicines and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the most basic version, the pillbox sensors are integrated inside the lid. They monitor the condition of the lids in the subcompartment. The sensors are activated when a lid is opened by the user and a message sent to the microcontroller. The signal is timestamped, and stored in the circular memory cache of the microcontroller 18LF252.
adult electric mobility scooter can be easily reprogrammed with an external Arduino board that controls every component. 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 as well as the light will remain on for a brief time, then bleep once every 10 seconds until the senior interacts. The pillbox will then dispense the pill and the LEDs as well as the internal speaker will turn off.