12 Companies Leading The Way In Electric Assistive Technology
Electric Assistive Technology
Over one billion people need an assistive device, and that number is expected to increase by 2030. These devices can be bought in shops or modified (like adding tennis balls to an existing walking aid), or even customized.
Assistive technology includes ergonomic kitchen tools like OXO Good Grip, and specialized keyboards. 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 weakened because of an injury such as a stroke or Multiple Sclerosis. The electrical pulses cause the muscle to make its normal movement. This treatment is able to enhance movement, like the ability to walk or grasp. It can also help improve bladder, bowel, and reduce the risk for pressure sores.
Electrical stimulation has been utilized for a long time to treat various ailments. Examples include cochlear implants to restore hearing, phrenic pacemakers that aid respiration, and systems to aid in the elimination of bladders by people. It can also help reduce tremors caused by Parkinson's disease. Electrical stimulation is delivered by electrodes that may be completely implanted into the body or they can be placed on the skin without penetration the skin, which is known as noninvasive or percutaneous electrodes.
The intensity of stimulation can be altered to produce different results. For example, the amplitude of the stimulus may affect the kind of nerve fibers targeted and the fibers that are closer to the electrode being targeted first. The duration of the stimulus is an additional crucial factor. This determines the length of time the muscle is stimulated, which may impact the rate at which fatigue develops.
Although FES can be beneficial in helping someone suffering from injured spinal cord recover functional movements, it's not for everyone. It's not recommended for people with uncontrolled epilepsy or cancerous lesions on the skin to be stimulated or who are sensitive to. The electrodes are not recommended for those suffering from skin conditions, since they can cause irritation or even pressure injuries.
Power chairs
Power chairs are a kind of motorized wheelchair that use an electric battery and motor to assist with mobility. They can be controlled using a joystick or control system, and offer greater independence and accessibility to the world for those who are unable to walk. These devices enable users to travel further distances without relying on other people. These devices can also be adapted to meet the needs of particular users.
There are many different kinds of power chair that include portable and indoor/outdoor as well as mid-sized. Portable power chairs are incredibly lightweight and fold up to fit into small spaces. These are perfect for use at home, or for shorter distances. Power chairs that are mid-sized offer a balance between portability and durability, while outdoor and indoor power chairs are made for use outside but can be adjusted to fit indoor conditions. Indoor and outdoor chairs may have grippy tires to assist with manoeuvres over kerbs, and they may also include an kerb-climber.
For people with physical disabilities assistive technology is a vital tool. It ranges from store bought solutions like voice recognition software to specialized seating options that improve user satisfaction and independence. High-tech assistive technology can be more expensive, however it offers advanced features and capabilities for customization that can be ideal for a wide range of needs.
To find the right solution for your individual needs, it is best to seek a professional opinion by a physician or a physical therapist. They will be able to recommend the right equipment for your needs, size it correctly and teach you how to operate it. They can also help you select accessories and integrate the equipment to your everyday activities.
Railings
Railings are commonly referred to as handrails and run diagonally through ramps or stairs. They offer a sturdy gripping point for people navigating the slope. Most building codes include requirements regarding the handrails' height and spacing to help prevent accidents. Handrails can be made into an easy-to-hold shape or constructed from materials that are easy to hold. Handrails that are functional and meet ADA regulations feature an opening for fingers on one or both sides. They must also be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force.
Handrails can also provide tactile guidance for people with visual impairments to aid them in climbing stairs. Handrails allow individuals to feel the number or steps, curves, and landings by running their hand along them. In emergency situations, handrails can help direct people to safe exit routes.
Electronic pillboxes
The electronic pillbox is a sophisticated device designed to help seniors remember their medication. It utilizes triple alarms as well as visual and audible reminders to ensure that seniors take their pills at the appropriate times. This technology can help reduce medication errors which are the leading cause of death in seniors. It also helps to prevent overdoses that can cause death.
This Resource site consists of a medication container that comes with different compartments for daily use and times of the week and a sensor powered by batteries with the ability to connect to mobile data worldwide as well as speakers and LEDs to give audio and visual notifications when pills are due. This device is specifically designed for patients who regularly take many vitamins or medicines and caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes.
In the simplest model, the pillbox sensor is incorporated into the lid and monitors the status of each subcompartment lid. The sensors are activated when the user opens a lid and a signal sent to the microcontroller. The signal is time-stamped before being saved to a circular memory buffer in the 18LF252 microcontroller.
The system is designed to be easily programmed by 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 also letting the senior know when a medication needs to be taken. The light and acoustic signals will be on for a brief period of time, then it will bleep every 10 s until the senior interacts with the device. The pillbox will then start dispensing the pill and the internal speaker and LEDs will turn off.