Why We Do We Love Electric Assistive Technology (And You Should Too!)

Electric Assistive Technology Over one billion people need an assistive device, and that number is expected to increase by 2030. These devices can be store purchased, modified, such as adding tennis balls to a walker or even made to order. Some examples of assistive technology are pencil grips, ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips) and keyboards with specialized features. Advanced devices may also be considered, like screen magnifiers. Functional electrical stimulation Functional electrical stimulation (FES), also known as functional electrical stimulation, is a procedure that employs small electric charges to stimulate muscles that are weak or weakened due to injury such as a stroke or Multiple Sclerosis. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to move normally. This treatment helps in facilitating movements, like grasping or walking, and it can aid in improving the bowel and bladder function and decrease the risk of pressure sores. Electrical stimulation has been utilized for a long time to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants to help with hearing, respiration assisters, and systems to assist people void their bladder. It also helps reduce the tremors associated with Parkinson's. lightweight mobility scooter travel electric scooter for seniors is delivered using electrodes that can be implanted within the body or they can be placed on the skin without penetration the skin, which is known as noninvasive electrodes or percutaneous. The intensity of stimulation can be altered to achieve different outcomes. For example, the amplitude of the stimulation can affect the type of nerve fibers recruited with the larger fibers closest to the electrode being targeted first. Another crucial aspect is the duration of the stimulation. This influences the length of time the muscle is stimulated, which may affect the speed of fatigue. While FES is effective in helping someone suffering from injured spinal cord recover functional movements, it isn't for everyone. It's not suitable for those who suffer from epilepsy that is not controlled, cancerous lesions on the skin to be stimulated, or who are sensitive to. It is also not recommended for those who suffer from a poor skin condition due to the fact that self-adhesive electrodes can lead to irritation or pressure injuries. Power chairs Power chairs are a form of motorized wheelchair that utilizes an electric motor and battery to aid mobility. These wheelchairs can be controlled by a joystick, or other control system. They offer more independence for those who are not able to walk. They also permit users to travel for longer distances without relying on others for assistance. They can also be adapted to meet the requirements of particular users. There are many kinds of power chair, such as portable, indoor/outdoor and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are incredibly light and can fold to fit into small spaces. They are great for daily home use or for shorter riding distances. The mid-sized power chairs provide a balance between flexibility and durability, whereas the outdoor and indoor power chairs are designed for outdoor use but can be adjusted to suit indoor environments. Outdoor and indoor chairs could have grippy tires to assist in maneuvering over kerbs and they might also come with an kerb-climber. Assistive technology is a vital tool for those with physical disabilities. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software that is available in retail stores to specially designed seating that improves the comfort and independence of users. High-tech assistive technology can be more expensive, but offers advanced features and capabilities for customization that are suitable for a wide range of user needs. To determine the best solution for your individual needs, it's best to seek a professional opinion by a physician or a physical therapist. They will recommend the best device for you, help you size it correctly and show how to use it. They can also help in selecting accessories and integrating the equipment into your daily activities. Railings Often simply called handrails, railings are placed diagonally on stairs or ramps to offer an enduring gripping point for those who are navigating the incline. Most building codes include requirements regarding the height and spacing for handrails to avoid accidents. Handrails can be made into an easy-to-hold shape or constructed out of materials that are simple to grip. Handrails that are functional and in compliance with ADA regulations have an opening for fingers on one side or both. They should also be strong enough to support 200 pounds of force. Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for people with visual impairments to aid them in climbing stairs. Moving their hands across the railings allows users to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. Handrails can be used to guide people away from danger during emergencies. Electronic pillboxes The electronic pillbox is a sophisticated device that helps seniors remember their medication. It has triple alarms and audio and visual reminders to ensure that seniors take their medications at the appropriate times. This technology can help reduce medication errors which are a major cause of death for seniors. It can also help avoid fatal overdoses. The device consists of a container for medication with compartments for every day and times of the week as well as a battery-powered sensor that has the ability to connect to mobile data worldwide as well as LEDs and speakers to provide visual/audible notifications when the pills are due. This device is intended for patients who are taking several medications, vitamin supplements or both and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes. In the most basic model the pillbox sensor is integrated in the lid and it monitors the status of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated when the lid is opened by a user and a message sent to microcontroller. The signal is then time-stamped and stored in a circular memory buffer in the 18LF252 microcontroller. The system is easily reprogrammed using an external Arduino board that handles every component. The Arduino board is responsible for sending wireless alerts to caregivers and alerting the senior when a pill needs to be taken. The light and acoustic signals will stay on for a short period of time, and then bleep every 10 s until the senior is able to interact with the device. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill, and the internal speaker and LEDs will be turned off.