Electric Assistive Technology
Over one billion people need an assistive device, and that number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be store bought; modified, like adding tennis balls to a walker; or even made to order.
Assistive technology can include ergonomic kitchen tools, like OXO Good Grip and keyboards that are specialized. Other devices, like screen magnifiers, are also considered.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) applies small electric charges to muscles that have become disabled or weakened due to injuries, such as a stroke or multiple sclerosis. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to perform its normal movements. This treatment helps to ease movements, like grasping or walking. it can aid in improving the function of the bladder and bowel and decrease the chance of developing pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation can trigger reactions in excitable cells, such as neurons, and it has long been used to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implant to help with hearing, respiration assisters, and systems that help people void their bladder. It can also help reduce tremors caused by Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation is delivered using electrodes that can be implanted within the body or placed on the skin without piercing the skin, which is known as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous.
The intensity of stimulation can be adjusted to achieve different outcomes. The intensity of a stimulus can, for example, influence the type and location of nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers nearer to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is an additional important factor. It can influence the rate of fatigue, by impacting the duration that the muscle is stimulated.
While FES can be effective in helping a person suffering from injured spinal cord recover functional movement, it's not for all. It's not appropriate for people with uncontrolled epilepsy or cancerous lesions on the skin area to be stimulated, or who are oversensitive. It's also not recommended for those who have poor skin condition, as the self-adhesive electrodes may cause irritation or pressure injury.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a kind of motorized wheelchair that use an electric battery and motor to assist with mobility. These wheelchairs can be controlled using the joystick or another control system. They provide greater independence to those who are not able to walk. They also let users travel for longer distances without relying on others for assistance. In addition they can be customized and adapted to accommodate specific user needs.
There are many different kinds of power chairs that include portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely lightweight and fold down to fit in small spaces. They are great for daily household use or for riding shorter distances. Power wheelchairs that are mid-sized offer an ideal balance of portability and durability. Indoor/outdoor powerchairs are designed for outdoor use, but can also be adjusted for indoor use. Outdoor and indoor power chairs feature grippy tyres that aid in maneuvers on kerbs. They also include an kerb climber.
For those who have physical limitations, assistive technology is a crucial tool. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software that is sold in stores, to specially designed seating that improves the comfort and independence of users. The most advanced assistive technology is usually more expensive, but they offer advanced features and customizable options that are ideal for users with a variety of needs.
It is recommended to seek advice from a doctor or physical therapist in order to find the ideal solution. They can suggest the ideal equipment for you, assist you size it correctly and guide you through the use of it. They will also be able to assist you in choosing accessories and integrate the device into your daily activities.
Railings
Sometimes referred to as handrails, railings run diagonally alongside stairs or ramps to offer an effective gripping point for those who are navigating the slope. To prevent accidents, the majority of building codes have rules regarding the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails can be molded to an easily graspable shape or made out of materials that are simple to grip. Functional handrails that comply with ADA regulations have an opening for fingers on one or both sides. They also must be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails also serve as a tactile guide for those who have visual impairments, assisting them to navigate staircases. Handrails let people feel the number or steps or curves, as well as landings by dragging their hands along them. In the event of an emergency handrails can guide individuals to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is a smart device that helps seniors remember their medications. It has triple alarms and audio and visual reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the correct time. This technology reduces the risk of medication errors which are among the leading causes of deaths among seniors. It also helps to prevent overdoses that can cause death.
The device consists 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, and LEDs and speakers to provide visual/audible notifications when the pills are due. This device is specifically designed for patients who take several vitamins or medications as well as caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the most basic version the sensors for the pillbox are integrated into the lid. They monitor the condition of the subcompartment lids. The sensors are activated whenever the lid is opened by the user and a message transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is then timestamped and stored in a circular memory cache of the 18LF252 microcontroller.
The system can be easily programmed using an external Arduino board that controls all the various components. The Arduino board will be in charge of emitting sound and light signals for the pillbox in order to let the senior know that a medication needs to be taken, and wirelessly delivering the message to the caregivers. The acoustic signals and the light will remain on for a short time, then bleep once every 10 seconds until the senior has a response. electric power mobility scooter will then dispense the pill, and the LEDs and internal speaker will shut off.