Electric Assistive Technology
Over a billion people need an assistive device and that number is expected to increase by 2030. These devices can be purchased in stores, modified (like adding tennis balls to an existing walking aid) or even custom-designed.
Assistive technology is comprised of ergonomic kitchen tools like OXO Good Grips, and specialized keyboards. Other devices, like screen magnifiers, can be considered.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) applies small electrical charges to muscles that have become weak or weak due to injury, such as from a stroke or multiple sclerosis. The electrical pulses allow the muscle to move normally. This treatment helps in facilitating movement, such as grasping or walking, and it can also improve the function of the bladder and bowel and decrease the risk of pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation has been used for many years to treat various conditions. Examples include cochlear implant to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers to aid in respiration, and systems that assist people in removing their bladder. It also helps reduce the tremors associated with Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation can be provided via electrodes that are inserted into the body or placed on the skin's surface without piercing the skin. These electrodes are known as noninvasive or percutaneous electrodes.
The intensity of stimulation can be adjusted to achieve different outcomes. The amplitude of a stimulus can be a factor in the type and location of nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers located close to the electrode are targeted first. Another important factor is the duration of the stimulation. This can affect the rate of fatigue by impacting the duration that the muscle is stimulated.
Although FES can be beneficial in helping a person with an injury to the spinal cord regain functional movement, it's not suitable for everyone. It isn't appropriate for those with epilepsy that isn't controlled, or a cancerous lesion that covers the the skin to be stimulated, or are hypersensitive to the sensations of stimulation. The electrodes are not recommended for people with poor skin conditions as they may cause irritation or even pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a form of motorized wheelchair that use an electric motor and battery to assist with mobility. These wheelchairs can be controlled using a joystick, or other control system. They offer more independence for those who are unable to walk. portable electric mobility scooters for adults permit users to travel for longer distances without having to rely on others for assistance. In addition they can be customized and adjusted to accommodate specific user needs.
There are many different kinds of power chairs such as portable or indoor/outdoor models, as well as a mid-sized. Portable power chairs are light and can fold to fit in tight spaces. They are ideal for use at home, or for smaller distances. Mid-sized power chairs offer an ideal balance between durability and portability, while outdoor and indoor power chairs are made for outdoor use but can be adjusted to suit indoor conditions. Outdoor and indoor power chairs have gripper tyres to aid maneuvers on kerbs. They also include an kerb climber.
Assistive technology is a vital device for people with physical disabilities. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software that is sold in stores, to specialized seating that enhances the user's comfort and independence. High-tech assistive technology is often more expensive, but it comes with advanced features and customizable capabilities that are ideal for a variety of user needs.
It is recommended that you seek out advice from a medical or a physical therapist to find the right solution. They can suggest the ideal device for you, and help you size it correctly and demonstrate how to use it. They can also help you choose accessories and integrate the device with your daily activities.
Railings
Often simply called handrails, railings run diagonally alongside stairs or ramps to offer an effective gripping point for those who are navigating the incline. Most building codes contain requirements regarding the handrails' height and spacing to help prevent accidents. Handrails can be designed to a graspable shape or constructed from materials that are easy to grip. Handrails that are functional and meet ADA regulations feature an opening for fingers on one side or both. They should also be strong enough for 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for individuals with visual impairments to aid them in navigating the stairs. Handrails enable people to feel the number of steps or curves, as well as landings by running their hand along them. Handrails can be used to steer people away from danger in emergency situations.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is an intelligent device designed to help seniors remember their medication. It uses triple alarms and audio and visual reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the right times. This technology can reduce the risk of medication errors which are among the leading causes of deaths among seniors. It also helps prevent overdoses, which can be fatal.
The device consists of a container for medication with compartments for every day and times of the week. It also has an electronic sensor powered by batteries that has an international mobile data connection and a set LED and speaker to enable visual/audible notifications of pill dueness. This device is designed for patients who regularly take multiple medications or vitamin supplements and caregivers in retirement homes and hospitals.
In the simplest model, the pillbox sensor is incorporated into the lid and monitors the status of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated whenever the lid is opened, and a signal is transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped and saved to an internal memory buffer that is circular in the microcontroller 18LF252 PIC.
The system is easily reprogrammed with an external Arduino board that controls all the various components. The Arduino board will be responsible for emitting sound and light signals to the pillbox to notify the senior that a pill needs to be taken and wirelessly delivering the message to the caregivers. The light and acoustic signals will remain on for a short period of time, then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior is able to interact with the device. The pillbox will then dispensing the pill, and the internal speaker and LEDs will turn off.