The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Electric Assistive Technology
Electric Assistive Technology In 2030, the number of people who need assistive devices will nearly double. These devices can be store bought; modified, like adding tennis balls to a walker or even crafted. Assistive technology includes ergonomic kitchen tools, such as OXO Good Grip, and specialized keyboards. More advanced devices can also be considered, including screen magnifiers. Functional electrical stimulation Functional electrical stimulation (FES) commonly referred to as functional electrical stimulation, is a technique that uses small electric charges to stimulate muscles that are either paralyzed or weak because of an injury such as a stroke or Multiple Sclerosis. The electrical impulses stimulate the muscle to perform its usual movement. This treatment helps in facilitating movements, like grasping or walking. it can help improve the bowel and bladder function and reduce the risk of pressure sores. Electrical stimulation can trigger reactions in excitable cells, such as neurons, and has been used for years to treat a variety of ailments. Examples include cochlear implants to help with hearing, respiration assisters, and systems that help people empty their bladders. It also helps reduce tremors caused due to Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation is delivered using electrodes that can be implanted in the body, or they can be placed on the skin without piercing the skin, known as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous. The intensity of stimulation can be altered to produce different results. The amplitude of a stimulus may affect, for instance, the type and location of nerve fibers targeted. The fibers that are larger and nearer to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is an additional important aspect. It can influence the intensity of fatigue by impacting the duration that the muscle is stimulated. Although FES can be beneficial in helping a person suffering from an injury to the spinal cord regain functional movements, it isn't suitable for all. It's not appropriate for people who suffer from epilepsy that is not controlled, cancerous lesions on the skin area to be stimulated or those who are sensitive to. It is not recommended for people who suffer from a poor skin condition, as the self-adhesive electrodes may 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 operated using a joystick or control system, and offer more independence and access to the world for those who are unable to walk. These devices allow users to travel further distances without the need of other people. They can also be customized to meet the requirements of specific users. There are a variety of different types of power chairs that include portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are lightweight and fold up to fit into small spaces. These are perfect for use at home or for smaller distances. The mid-sized power chairs provide an ideal balance between flexibility and durability, whereas the outdoor and indoor power chairs are designed for outdoor use but can be adjusted to fit indoor conditions. Outdoor and indoor power chairs feature grippy tyres to help with maneuvers on kerbs, and could include an kerb climber. For those with physical disabilities assistive technology is a crucial tool. It can range from shop bought solutions like voice recognition software to more specialized seating options that increase comfort and independence. High-tech assistive technologies are typically more expensive, but they offer advanced features and customization options that are perfect for those who have a wide range of needs. To determine the best solution for your specific requirements, it is recommended to get a professional evaluation by a physician or a physical therapist. They can recommend the right equipment for you, assist you choose the right size and show how to use it. They can also assist in selecting accessories and integrate the device into your daily routine. Railings Railings are commonly referred to as handrails. They run diagonally across ramps or stairs. They provide a solid grasping point for those who are navigating the incline. The majority of building codes have requirements regarding the handrails' height and spacing to prevent accidents. Handrails come in a variety and materials. Handrails that are functional and in compliance with ADA regulations have a recess for the fingers, either on one side or both. They also must be strong enough to withstand 200 pounds of force. Handrails can also be a tactile guide for people with visual impairments, aiding them to navigate stairs. Handrails let people feel the number or steps as well as landings, curves, and stairs by running their hand along them. In emergency situations handrails can assist in directing people to safe exit routes. Electronic pillboxes The electronic pillbox is a smart device that helps seniors remember their medication. It has triple alarms and visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the correct time. My Mobility Scooters can reduce the chance of errors in taking medication which are among the most common causes of deaths among seniors. It also helps to prevent overdoses that can be fatal. The device is comprised of a medication container 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 audio and visual notifications of dueness of pills. This device is intended for patients who are taking multiple medications, vitamin supplements or both as well as caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes. In the simplest form the pillbox sensor is incorporated in the lid and it monitors the status of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated whenever a lid is opened by the user and a message sent to microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped and saved to the circular memory buffer of the 18LF252 microcontroller. The system can be easily programmed using an external Arduino board that manages all the different parts. The Arduino board will be in charge of emitting sound and light signals for the pillbox to let the senior know that a pill has to be taken, and wirelessly transmitting the message to caregivers. The acoustic and light signals will remain on for a brief period 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 internal speaker and LEDs will be turned off.