20Apr |
Where Is Assistive / Adaptive Technology Useful.
Having spoken of Assistive Technology and how it helps the accomplishment of tasks, let's talk of the types of AT in daily living that can range from low-tech devices like jar openers to high-tech ones such as voice-control software used to control a computer instead of a keyboard.
1. Aids for daily living - that would assist in performing the ADL in a more comfortable manner. eg modofied eating utensils, page turners, dressing aids.
2. Environmental Control Devices - some that you use daily like remotes and switches for the TV, fans coffee maker, appliances activated by pressure of even eye contact.Home automation and safety systems are AI based AT devices.
3. Augmentative communication - these devics help the people with hearing or speaking disabilites or cognitive impairements. eg.Braille, book holders, speech sound amplification aids, page turners,auditory devices etc.
4. Home/workplace modifications - structural adaptations to remove obstructions during movement like ramps, lifts, auto door openers etc.
5. Mobility aids - to assist the disabled to move freely within their environment, eg, wheelchair, modified scooters, crutches etc.
6. Recreation - AT based devices that assist people to enjoy the life in whaetevr circumstances, enabling them to participate in sports, cultural events etc eg, audio description for the movies, adaptive fishing rods, adaptive video game controls, special seating systems in boats etc.
7. Prosthetics and Orthotics - These AT based devices make live worth living for the physically disabled or suffered, eg, artificial limbs or orthotics likes braces.
8. Seating and Positioning Aids - Items enhancing adaptive seating like positioning belts, cushions and wedges, standing tables etc.
This is basically meant to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities, it could be the need of a child and elderly, an accident survivor, anyone.
We'll talk more about the Basics of AT in our next post .
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