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 bought in stores or modified (like adding tennis balls to a walking aid) or even custom-designed.
Some examples of assistive technology include pencil grips ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips), and specialized keyboards. Advanced devices may also be considered, like screen magnifiers.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) commonly referred to as functional electrical stimulation, is a technique that uses tiny electric charges to muscles that are either paralyzed or weak due to injury, such as Multiple Sclerosis or stroke. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to perform its normal movement. This treatment can be used to enhance movement, like 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 various conditions. Examples include cochlear implant to restore hearing, respiration assisters, and systems to assist people void their bladder. It also helps reduce the tremors associated with Parkinson's. The electrical stimulation is delivered via electrodes that may be completely implanted within the body or placed on the skin without penetrating the skin, known as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous.
The intensity of stimulation can be adjusted to produce different results. The amplitude of a stimulus can be a factor in the nature and location of the nerve fibers targeted. The fibers that are larger and closer to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is another crucial factor. This can affect the rate of fatigue by affecting the length of time that the muscle is stimulated.
Although FES can be beneficial in helping a person suffering from injured spinal cord recover functional movement, it's not for everyone. It's not recommended for people who have uncontrolled epilepsy or a cancerous lesion on the area of the skin to be stimulated, or who are hypersensitive to the sensation of stimulation. It is also not recommended for those with a skin condition that is poor due to the fact that self-adhesive electrodes can lead to pressure injuries or irritation.
Power chairs
Power chairs are motorized wheelchairs that use an electric motor and battery to assist with mobility. They can be controlled using a joystick or control system, and can provide greater independence and accessibility to the world for people who cannot walk. These devices enable users to travel further distances without the need of others. They can be customized to meet the requirements of specific users.
There are many different types of power chairs that include portable or indoor/outdoor models, as well as a mid-sized. Portable power chairs are lightweight and fold in order to fit into tiny spaces. These are perfect for home use, or for short distances. Power chairs that are mid-sized offer the perfect balance of portability and durability, while indoor/outdoor power chairs are designed for use outside but can be adjusted to fit indoor environments. Indoor/outdoor power chairs have gripper tyres to aid maneuvers on kerbs, and could include an kerb climber.
For those who have physical limitations, assistive technology is an essential tool. It ranges from store purchased solutions such as voice recognition software, to specialized seating options that improve user satisfaction and independence. High-tech assistive technology can be more expensive, however it offers advanced features and capabilities for customization that are suitable for a wide range of user needs.
To find the right solution for your individual needs, it's best to seek out a professional assessment from a doctor or physical therapist. They can suggest the most suitable equipment for your needs, size it appropriately and show you how to use it. They will also be able to assist you in choosing accessories and integrate the device into your daily activities.
Railings
Railings are commonly referred to as handrails. They run diagonally along stairs or ramps. They provide a solid place to hold onto for those who have to climb the incline. Most building codes contain guidelines regarding the height and spacing for handrails to help prevent accidents. Handrails are available in a variety and materials. Handrails that are functional and meet ADA regulations have a finger recess either on one side or both. portable electric mobility scooter should also be sturdy enough for 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also be an aid for those who have visual impairments, assisting them to climb steps. Moving their hands along the railing allows individuals to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. In emergency situations handrails can assist in directing individuals to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox was created to help seniors remember to take their medications. The electronic pillbox uses visual and audio reminders and triple alarms, to ensure seniors take their medications at the correct time. This technology can lower the chance of errors in taking medication which are among the leading causes of death among seniors. It also helps in preventing overdoses, which can cause death.
The device is made up of a medicine container with compartments for each day and times of the week and a sensor powered by batteries with the ability to connect to mobile data worldwide as well as speakers and LEDs to give audio and visual notifications when pills are due. This device is designed for patients who frequently take several vitamins or medications and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the simplest model, the pillbox sensor is incorporated into the lid and monitors the state of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated when the user opens a lid and a signal transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is timestamped, and stored in the circular memory cache of the microcontroller 18LF252.
The system is designed to be reprogrammable with the use of an external Arduino board, which controls each of the different parts. The Arduino board will be in charge of emitting light and sound signals for the pillbox to let the senior know that a pill has to be taken and wirelessly delivering the message to caregivers. The acoustic and light signals will be 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 dispensing the pill and the LEDs and internal speaker will shut off.