Electric Assistive Technology
Over a billion people need an assistive device, and that number is set to double by 2030. These devices can be store purchased, modified, such as adding tennis balls to a walker; or even made to order.
Assistive technology is comprised of ergonomic kitchen appliances, such as OXO Good Grip, and specialized keyboards. More advanced devices can also be considered, such as screen magnifiers.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) applies small electrical charges to muscles that have become paralysed or weakened due to injuries, such as a stroke or multiple sclerosis. The electrical pulses allow the muscle to move normally. This treatment is used to facilitate movement, like walking or grasping, and it can help improve bladder and bowel function and decrease the risk of pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation can elicit responses in excitable cells like neurons, and it has been used for a long time to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants that restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers that aid in respiration, and systems to assist people in removing their bladder. It also helps reduce tremors caused due to Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation is delivered by electrodes that can be implanted in the body, or they can be placed on the skin without penetrating the skin, which is known as percutaneous or noninvasive electrodes.
The intensity of stimulation can be adjusted to achieve different outcomes. The intensity of a stimulus may affect, for instance, the kind and the location of nerve fibers targeted. The fibers that are larger and closer to the electrode are targeted first. Another crucial aspect is the duration of the stimulation. This influences the length of time that the muscle is activated, which can impact the rate at which fatigue occurs.
FES isn't suitable for all. It can be effective in helping a person suffering from an injury to their spine recover their functional movements. It's not suitable for those with uncontrolled epilepsy, cancerous lesions on the skin area to be stimulated or who are sensitive to. It's not recommended for people with a skin condition that is poor because the self-adhesive electrodes could cause irritation or pressure injury.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a type of motorized wheelchair that use an electric battery and motor to aid mobility. They can be maneuvered using a joystick or control system, and can provide greater independence and access to the world for those who are unable to walk. They also allow users to travel further distances without relying on others for assistance. Additionally they can be adapted and customized to meet the specific needs of users.
There are many different types of power chair, such as portable, indoor/outdoor and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely light and can fold to fit into small spaces. electric mobility scooters for sale near me are perfect for home use, or for shorter distances. Power wheelchairs that are mid-sized offer the perfect balance between flexibility and endurance. Outdoor and indoor powerchairs are designed to be used outdoors, but can also be adjusted to indoor conditions. Outdoor and indoor power chairs have grippy tyres to help with maneuvers on kerbs. They also include an kerb climber.
Assistive technology is an essential tool for those who have physical impairments. It can range from store purchased solutions such as voice recognition software to specialized seating options that improve user comfort and independence. The most advanced assistive technology is usually more expensive, however it offers advanced features and customization capabilities that are ideal for a wide range of needs.
To find the ideal solution for your specific needs, it's best to seek a professional opinion from a medical or physical therapist. They can suggest the most suitable equipment to meet your needs, the right size it correctly, and teach you how to use it. They can also assist you to select accessories and integrate the equipment with your daily activities.
Railings
Railings are often called handrails and run diagonally along stairs or ramps. They provide a solid gripping point for people navigating the slope. Most building codes include requirements regarding the height and spacing for handrails to prevent accidents. Handrails come in a variety of forms and materials. Functional handrails that comply with ADA regulations have a finger recess either on one side or both. They should also be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for those with visual impairments. They can assist them in navigating steps. Handrails allow individuals to feel the number of steps, curves, and landings by dragging their hands along them. In emergency situations handrails can assist in directing people to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is an intelligent device that helps seniors remember their medications. It utilizes triple alarms as well as visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their medications at the right times. This technology can help reduce medication errors that are a leading cause of death among seniors. It also helps prevent fatal overdoses.
The device consists of a medication container that comes with different compartments for daily use and weekday times and a sensor powered by batteries with an international mobile data connection, and LEDs and speakers to give audio and visual notifications when the pills are due. This device is designed for patients who are taking multiple medications, vitamin supplements or both, as well as caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the most basic model the pillbox sensor is incorporated in the lid and it monitors the status of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are triggered whenever the lid is opened by the user and a signal sent to the microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped and saved to an internal memory buffer that is circular in the 18LF252 PIC microcontroller.
The system is designed to be easily programmed using an external Arduino board, which is responsible for every component. The Arduino board is responsible for emitting light and sound signals for the pillbox to inform the senior that a pill has to be taken and wirelessly sending the notification to the caregivers. The light and acoustic signals will stay on for a short period of time, and then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior is able to interact with the device. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill, and the internal speakers and LEDs will turn off.