Electric Assistive Technology<br /><br /><br /><br />More than one billion people require aidive devices and that 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.<br /><br />Assistive technology is comprised of ergonomic kitchen tools, such as OXO Good Grip, and specialized keyboards. <a href="https://www.mymobilityscooters.uk/categories/electric-mobility-scooters">My Mobility Scooters</a> advanced devices can also be considered, such as screen magnifiers.<br /><br />Functional electrical stimulation<br /><br />Functional electrical stimulation (FES) commonly referred to as functional electrical stimulation is a method that relies on tiny electric charges to muscles that are either paralyzed or weakened due to injury such as Multiple Sclerosis or a stroke. The electrical pulses trigger the muscle to make its normal movements. This treatment is able to enhance movement, like the ability to walk or grasp. It also helps improve the bowel and bladder, as well as reduce the risk of pressure sores.<br /><br />Electrical stimulation has been utilized for many years to treat various conditions. Examples include cochlear implants to restore hearing, respiration assisters and systems to help people empty their bladders. It can also help reduce the tremors that are caused by Parkinson's disease. The electrical stimulation is delivered via electrodes that can be implanted into the body or placed on the skin without penetration the skin, referred to as noninvasive or percutaneous electrodes.<br /><br />The intensity of stimulation can be altered to achieve different results. The intensity of a stimulus can, for example, influence the kind and the location of nerve fibers targeted. The fibers that are larger and close to the electrode are targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is another crucial factor. This affects the amount of time that the muscle is stimulated, which may impact the rate at which fatigue develops.<br /><br />While FES can be effective in helping a person suffering from an injury to the spinal cord regain functional movement, it's not for everyone. It's not recommended for people who suffer from epilepsy that is not controlled or cancerous lesions on the skin area to be stimulated or those who are sensitive to. The electrodes shouldn't be used for those suffering from skin conditions as they may cause irritation or pressure injuries.<br /><br />Power chairs<br /><br />Power chairs are motorized wheelchairs that use an electric motor and battery to aid with mobility. These wheelchairs can be controlled using an electronic joystick or other control systems. They offer greater independence to those who are not able to walk. These devices enable users to travel further distances without the need of other people. These devices can also be adapted to meet the needs of particular users.<br /><br />There are many different types of power chair, including the portable, indoor/outdoor and middle-sized. Portable power chairs are extremely lightweight and fold down to fit in small spaces. These are ideal for everyday home use, or for shorter riding distances. Mid-sized power chairs offer the perfect balance of flexibility and durability, whereas the outdoor and indoor power chairs are designed to be used outdoors, but can be adjusted to suit indoor environments. Indoor/outdoor chairs may include grippy tires that can assist with maneuvers over kerbs and they could also have the ability to climb kerbs.<br /><br />Assistive technology is a vital tool for those who have physical impairments. The technology can be anything from voice recognition software that is available in retail stores to specialized seating that enhances comfort and independence. The most advanced assistive technology is usually more expensive, but they offer advanced features and options for customization that are ideal for users with a variety of needs.<br /><br />To find the right solution for your individual needs, it is best to seek a professional opinion from a medical or physical therapist. They can recommend the right equipment for you, assist you size it correctly and demonstrate how to use it. They can also help you in selecting the right accessories and integrate the device into your daily routine.<br /><br />Railings<br /><br />Often referred to simply as handrails railings are placed diagonally on stairs or ramps to offer a sturdy gripping point for individuals navigating the incline. To prevent accidents, the majority of building codes have regulations about the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails can be designed to a graspable shape or constructed out of materials that are simple to hold. 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.<br /><br />Handrails can also be a tactile guide for people with visual impairments, helping them to navigate staircases. Handrails allow individuals to feel the number or steps as well as landings, curves, and stairs by running their hands along them. In the event of an emergency, handrails can help direct people to safe exit routes.<br /><br />Electronic pillboxes<br /><br />The electronic pillbox is an intelligent device designed to help seniors remember their medications. It uses triple alarms and visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their medications at the correct time. This technology can cut down on medication errors that are a major cause of death for seniors. It can also help to prevent fatal overdoses.<br /><br />The device consists of a medicine container that has different compartments for daily use and weekday times and a sensor powered by batteries with an international mobile data connection as well as LEDs and speakers to give audio and visual notifications when pills are due. This device is designed for patients who frequently take multiple medications or vitamin supplements as well as caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.<br /><br />In the most basic version the sensors of the pillbox are integrated inside the lid. They monitor the condition of the lids for the subcompartment. The sensors are activated whenever the lid is opened by a user and a message is sent to microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped before being stored in the circular memory buffer of the 18LF252 PIC microcontroller.<br /><br />The system is designed to be easily reprogrammed with the use of an external Arduino board, which controls each of the different parts. The Arduino board is responsible for wireless notifications to caregivers and letting the senior know that a pill is required to be taken. The acoustic signals and the light will remain on for a short duration, and then bleep every 10 seconds until the senior interacts. The pillbox will then dispensing the pill, and the internal speaker and LEDs will shut off.<br /><br />