Watch Out: How Electric Assistive Technology Is Taking Over And How To Stop It

Electric Assistive Technology

Over a billion people need an assistive device and the number is expected to double by 2030. These devices can be purchased in shops, modified (like adding tennis balls to a walker), or even customized.

Assistive technology includes ergonomic kitchen tools like OXO Good Grips, and specialized keyboards. Other advanced devices could be considered, including screen magnifiers.

Functional electrical stimulation

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) provides small electric charges to muscles that have become disabled or weak due to injury, for example, a stroke or multiple sclerosis. The electrical pulses allow the muscle to move normally. This treatment is able to enhance movement, like walking or grasping. It also helps improve the bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk of pressure sores.

Electrical stimulation can elicit responses in excitable cells such as neurons, and has been used for years to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers to assist breathing, and systems that aid in the elimination of bladders by people. It also helps reduce tremors caused by Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation is delivered by electrodes that may be completely implanted into the body or placed on the skin without penetration the skin, referred to as percutaneous or noninvasive electrodes.

The intensity of the stimulation can be controlled to produce different outcomes. For instance, the amplitude of the stimulus can influence the nature of the nerve fibers that are recruited, with larger fibers closer to the electrode being targeted first. Another crucial aspect is the duration of the stimulation. This determines the length of time a muscle is activated, which can impact the rate of fatigue.

FES is not for all. It can be effective in helping someone with an injury to their spine recover their functional movements. 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's not recommended for people who have poor skin condition, as the self-adhesive electrodes may cause irritation or pressure injury.

Power chairs

Power chairs are a form of motorized wheelchair that use an electric motor and battery to assist with mobility. They can be maneuvered with a joystick or a control system, and can provide greater independence and access to the world for individuals who are unable to walk. These devices let users travel further distances without relying on other people. They can also be adapted to meet the requirements of specific users.

There are a variety of different kinds of power chair that include portable and indoor/outdoor as well as mid-sized. Portable power chairs are light and can be folded up to fit into small spaces. They are great for daily household use or for riding shorter distances. Mid-sized power chairs offer a balance between flexibility and durability, whereas indoor/outdoor power chairs are designed for outdoor use but can be adjusted to suit indoor conditions. Outdoor and indoor power chairs have gripper tyres to aid manoeuvres on kerbs and may include a kerb climber.

For people with physical disabilities assistive technology is a vital tool. It can range from store bought solutions, such as voice recognition software to more specialized seating options that increase confidence and comfort. High-tech assistive technologies are often more expensive, but they provide advanced features and customizable options that are perfect for those who have a wide range of requirements.

It is recommended to seek out advice from a physician or a physical therapist to determine the best solution. They can recommend the right device for your needs, and size it appropriately and show you how to use it. They will also be able to assist in selecting accessories and how to integrate the equipment into your daily routine.

Railings

Sometimes referred to as handrails, railings are positioned diagonally along stairs or ramps to offer an enduring gripping point for those who are navigating the slope. Most building codes include regulations regarding height and spacing for handrails to help prevent accidents. Handrails are available in a variety of forms and materials. Functional handrails that meet ADA regulations feature an opening for fingers on one or both sides. They must also be strong enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.

Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for those with visual impairments.  talks about it  can aid them in navigating stairs. Handrails enable people to feel the number or steps or curves, as well as landings by running their hand along them. Handrails can be used to guide people away from danger in emergencies.

Electronic pillboxes

The electronic pillbox was designed to assist seniors in remembering to take their medications. It uses triple alarms and audio and visual reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the appropriate times. This technology can cut down on medication errors, which are a leading cause of death among seniors. It can also help prevent fatal overdoses.

The device is made up of a medication container that has different compartments for every day and time of week as well as a battery-powered sensor that has a mobile data connection worldwide as well as speakers and LEDs to give audio and visual notifications when the pills are due. This device is designed for patients who take multiple medications, vitamin supplements or both and caregivers at hospitals and retirement homes.

In the simplest version the sensors for the pillbox are integrated inside the lid. They monitor the status of the lids in the subcompartment. The sensors are activated every time the lid is opened by a user and a message sent to the microcontroller. The signal is then time-stamped and stored in a circular memory buffer in the 18LF252 microcontroller.

The system is designed to be easily reprogrammed using an external Arduino board, which manages each of the different parts. The Arduino board is responsible for sending wireless notifications to caregivers and letting the senior know when a medication needs to be taken. The acoustic and light signals will stay on for a short amount of time, and then bleep every 10 s until the senior has a conversation with the device. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill and the internal speaker and LEDs will turn off.