“The Electric Assistive Technology Awards: The Best, Worst And Weirdest Things We've Seen

Electric Assistive Technology More than one billion people require an assistive device, and the number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be store purchased; modified, for instance, adding tennis balls to a walker or even made to order. Some examples of assistive technology include pencil grips ergonomic kitchen tools (such as OXO good grips) and keyboards with specialized features. Other devices, such as screen magnifiers, are also considered. Functional electrical stimulation Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is also referred to as functional electrical stimulation, is a technique that uses tiny electric charges to muscles that are paralysed or weakened due to an injury such as a stroke or Multiple Sclerosis. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to perform its normal movement. This treatment is able to enhance movement, like the ability to walk or grasp. It also helps improve the bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk for pressure sores. Electrical stimulation has been used for many years to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants that restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers to aid respiration, and systems to help people void the bladder. It can also reduce the tremors associated with Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation can be delivered by electrodes that are implanted inside the body or placed on the skin's surface without cutting the skin. These electrodes are referred to as percutaneous or noninvasive electrodes. The intensity of stimulation can be altered to achieve different outcomes. The amplitude of a stimulus could affect, for instance, the nature and location of the nerve fibers targeted. Larger fibers located closer to the electrode are targeted first. Another crucial aspect is the duration of the stimulation. It can influence the rate of fatigue, by altering the duration that the muscle is stimulated. While FES can be effective in helping a person suffering from an injury to the spinal cord regain functional movement, it's not suitable for all. It's not recommended for people with epilepsy that isn't controlled, or a cancerous lesions on the area of the skin to be stimulated, or for those who are hypersensitive to the sensation of the stimulation. It's also not recommended for those who suffer from a poor skin condition due to the fact that self-adhesive electrodes could cause irritation or pressure injuries. Power chairs Power chairs are wheelchairs with motors that utilize an electric motor and battery to assist with mobility. They can be controlled by an electronic joystick or other control systems. They offer greater independence to those who are unable to walk. They also permit users to travel longer distances without relying on others for help. These devices can be customized to meet the requirements of specific users. There are a variety of different types of power chairs such as portable, indoor/outdoor, and mid-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely lightweight and fold up to fit into small spaces. They are ideal for use at home, or for short distances. Mid-sized power chairs offer an ideal balance between portability and durability, while indoor/outdoor power chairs are designed for outdoor use but can be adjusted to fit indoor environments. Outdoor and indoor power chairs have grippy tyres that aid in maneuvers on kerbs, and could include a kerb climber. For those with physical disabilities, assistive technology is a vital tool. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software available in stores to specialized seating that increases the user's comfort and independence. High-tech assistive technology can be more expensive, but offers advanced features and customizable capabilities that are suitable for a wide range of needs. It is recommended to seek professional advice from a physician or physical therapist to find the right solution. They will recommend the best device for you, help you size it correctly and demonstrate how to use it. compact scooters can also assist you to select accessories and integrate the device to your everyday activities. Railings Sometimes referred to as handrails, railings run diagonally alongside stairs or ramps to offer a sturdy gripping point for individuals navigating the slope. Most building codes contain guidelines regarding the height and spacing for handrails to help prevent accidents. Handrails can be made into an easily graspable shape or made of materials that are easy to hold. Functional handrails that comply with ADA regulations have an opening for fingers on one side or both. They also must be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force. Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for individuals with visual impairments to aid them in navigating the stairs. Running their hand along the railing allows individuals to feel the number of steps, curves, or landings. In emergency situations handrails can assist in directing individuals to safe exit routes. Electronic pillboxes The electronic pillbox is a smart device that is designed to assist seniors remember their medications. The electronic pillbox utilizes audio and visual reminders and triple alarms, to make sure seniors take their medication at the correct time. This technology can lower the risk of medication errors, which are one of the leading causes of deaths among seniors. It can also help prevent fatal overdoses. The device is comprised of a medication container with different compartments for each day and the time of the week, an electronic sensor powered by batteries that has an international mobile data connection and a set of LED and speaker to enable audio and visual notifications of the due date of a pill. This device is specifically designed for patients who take several vitamins or medications and caregivers in retirement homes and hospitals. In the simplest model the pillbox sensor is built into the lid and monitors the state of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated when the lid is opened and a signal is transmitted to the microcontroller. The signal is timestamped and stored in the memory cache that is circular to the 18LF252 microcontroller. The system is easily reprogrammed by using an external Arduino board that handles every component. The Arduino board will be in charge of emitting sound and light signals to the pillbox to let the senior know that a pill has to be taken, and wirelessly transmitting the message to caregivers. The light and acoustic signals will stay on for a short amount of time, then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior interacts with the device. The pillbox will then begin dispensing the pill, and the internal speaker and LEDs will shut off.