Electric Assistive Technology
Over a billion people need an assistive device and that number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be bought in shops or even modified (like adding tennis balls to a walking aid), or even customized.
Assistive technology includes ergonomic kitchen appliances, such as OXO Good Grip and keyboards with specialized features. Other advanced devices could be considered, such as screen magnifiers.
Functional electrical stimulation
Functional electrical stimulation (FES), also known as functional electrical stimulation is a method that relies on small electric charges to stimulate muscles that are either paralyzed or weak because of an injury such as Multiple Sclerosis or a stroke. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to perform its usual movement. This treatment is able to improve your movement, such as the ability to walk or grasp. It can also help improve bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk for pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation can trigger reactions in excitable cells like neurons, and it has been used for years to treat a variety of ailments. Examples include cochlear implants to restore hearing, respiration assisters, and systems to assist people empty their bladders. It may also help to reduce tremors caused due to Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation is delivered by electrodes that may be completely implanted within the body or they can be placed on the skin without penetration the skin, known as noninvasive or percutaneous electrodes.
The intensity of the stimulation can be controlled to create different outcomes. For example, the amplitude of the stimulus may affect the type of nerve fibers recruited with the larger fibers closest to the electrode being targeted first. Another important factor is the duration of the stimulation. This affects the amount of time a muscle is active, which could impact the rate of fatigue.
Although FES can be beneficial in helping a person with a spinal cord injury regain functional movements, it's not for everyone. It's not suitable for those with uncontrolled epilepsy or cancerous lesions on the skin to be stimulated or those who are sensitive to. It's not recommended for people who suffer from a poor skin condition because the self-adhesive electrodes can lead to irritation or pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are motorized wheelchairs that use an electric motor and battery to help with mobility. They can be maneuvered with a joystick or a control system, and offer greater independence and access to the world for individuals who are unable to walk. These devices allow users to travel further distances without the need of other people. These devices can be customized to meet the requirements of particular users.
There are a variety of different kinds of power chairs that include portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are light and can fold to fit into small spaces. They are ideal for use at home or for smaller distances. Mid-sized power wheelchairs offer the perfect balance between portability and durability. Indoor/outdoor powerchairs are designed to be used outdoors however they can be adjusted for indoor use. Indoor/outdoor chairs may feature grippy tires to help with maneuvers over kerbs and they might also come with a kerb-climber.
Assistive technology is an essential device for people with physical limitations. It can range from voice recognition software that is available in retail stores to specially designed seating that improves the user's comfort and independence. The most advanced assistive technology is usually more expensive but offer advanced features and options for customization that are perfect for those with a variety of requirements.
It is recommended to seek advice from a physician or physical therapist to find the right solution. mobile electric scooters will be able to suggest the most suitable device for your needs, and size it correctly, and teach you how to operate it. They can also help you choose accessories and integrate the equipment to your everyday activities.
Railings
Railings are also known as handrails. They are a diagonal line that runs through ramps or stairs. They offer a sturdy grasping point for those who are navigating the incline. The majority of building codes have regulations regarding height and spacing for handrails to help prevent accidents. Handrails are available in a variety of forms and materials. Handrails that are functional and meet ADA regulations have a finger recess either on one side or both. They also need to be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also offer tactile guidance for people with visual impairments to aid them in climbing the stairs. Handrails enable people to 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 help direct individuals to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox was designed to aid seniors in remembering to take their medications. The electronic pillbox uses audio and visual reminders, as well as triple alarms to ensure that seniors take their medication at the correct time. This technology can lower the risk of medication errors, which are one of the most common causes of deaths among seniors. It can also help to prevent fatal overdoses.
The device consists of a medication container that comes with different compartments for every day and times of the week and a sensor powered by batteries with an international mobile data connection as well as LEDs and speakers to notify users via audio or visual signals when pills are due. This device is aimed at patients who are taking several medications, vitamin supplements or both 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 state of the subcompartment lids. The sensors are activated every time the lid is opened by a user and a message is sent to the microcontroller. The signal is timestamped, and stored in a circular memory cache of the microcontroller 18LF252.
The system is designed to be easily programmed using an external Arduino board, which is responsible for all the various components. The Arduino board is responsible for sending wireless notifications to caregivers and alerting the senior when a medication needs to be taken. The acoustic and light signals will be on for a short period of time, then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior interacts with the device. The pillbox will then dispensing the pill and the internal speaker and LEDs will shut off.