Electric Assistive Technology Over one billion people need an assistive device and that number is set to double by 2030. These devices can be store bought; modified, like adding tennis balls to a walker; or even made to order. Assistive technology is comprised of ergonomic kitchen tools, such as OXO Good Grip, and specialized keyboards. More advanced devices can also be considered, like screen magnifiers. Functional electrical stimulation Functional electrical stimulation (FES), also known as functional electrical stimulation, is a procedure that employs tiny electric charges to muscles that are either paralyzed or weak because of an injury such as a stroke or Multiple Sclerosis. https://www.mymobilityscooters.uk/categories/electric-mobility-scooters cause the muscle to move normally. This treatment helps in facilitating movements, like grasping or walking, and it can also improve the function of the bladder and bowel and reduce the chance of developing pressure sores. Electrical stimulation has been used for many years to treat a variety of conditions. Examples include cochlear implants that help with hearing, respiration assisters, and systems to help people void their bladder. It can also reduce tremors that are caused by Parkinson's. Electrical stimulation is delivered by electrodes that may be completely implanted into the body or they can be placed on the skin without penetrating the skin, which is known as noninvasive or percutaneous electrodes. The intensity of stimulation can be adjusted to achieve different outcomes. For instance, the amplitude of the stimulation can 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 another crucial factor. This can affect the intensity of fatigue by impacting the duration that the muscle is stimulated. FES isn't for everyone. It can be extremely effective in helping a person suffering from an injury to their spine recover their functional movements. It's not suitable for people with epilepsy that isn't controlled, or a cancerous lesion that covers the area of the skin to be stimulated, or for those who are hypersensitive to the sensation of the stimulation. The electrodes aren't recommended for those suffering from skin conditions, since they could cause irritation or injury to the skin. Power chairs Power chairs are a form of motorized chair that uses an electric battery and motor to aid mobility. These wheelchairs can be controlled by an electronic joystick or other control system. They provide greater independence to those who are not able to walk. These devices enable users to travel further distances without the need of others. They can also be adapted to meet the requirements of particular users. 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 into small spaces. These are ideal for everyday home use, or for shorter riding distances. The mid-sized power wheelchairs provide a balance of flexibility and endurance. Indoor and outdoor powerchairs are made for outdoor use however they can be adjusted for indoor use. Indoor and outdoor chairs may feature grippy tires to help with maneuvers over kerbs and they may also include the ability to climb kerbs. For people with physical disabilities, assistive technology is a vital tool. It can range from shop bought solutions like voice recognition software to specialized seating options that increase satisfaction and independence. High-tech assistive technology can be more expensive, but it comes with advanced features and customizable capabilities that are ideal for a wide range of user requirements. It is recommended that you seek professional advice from a medical or a physical therapist in order to find the right solution. They can recommend the right device for you, help you select the correct size and demonstrate how to use it. They can also help you select accessories and integrate the device into your daily routine. Railings Often referred to simply as handrails railings are placed diagonally on ramps or stairs to provide an effective gripping point for those who are navigating the incline. To avoid accidents, many building codes have rules regarding the height and spacing of handrails. Handrails can be designed to an easily graspable shape or made out of materials that are simple to grip. Handrails that are functional and meet ADA regulations feature the finger recess on one or both sides. They must also be sturdy enough to withstand 200 pounds of force. Handrails can also offer tactile guidance for people with visual impairments to assist them in navigating the stairs. Handrails enable people to feel the number or steps as well as landings, curves, and stairs by running their hand along them. Handrails can be used to guide people away from danger during emergencies. Electronic pillboxes The electronic pillbox was created to aid seniors in remembering to take their medications. The electronic pillbox utilizes audio and visual reminders, as well as triple alarms to ensure that seniors take their medications at the right time. This technology reduces the risk of medication errors, which are one of the most common causes of deaths among seniors. It can also help to prevent fatal overdoses. The device is made up of a container for medication that comes with different compartments for every day 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 notify users via audio or visual signals when the pills are due. This device is aimed at patients who are taking several medications, vitamin supplements or both as well as caregivers in hospitals and retirement homes. In the most basic version the sensors of the pillbox are integrated inside the lid. They monitor the state of the lids for the subcompartment. The sensors are activated whenever a lid is opened by the user and a message sent to the microcontroller. The signal is timestamped and stored in the memory cache that is circular to the 18LF252 microcontroller. The system can be easily reprogrammed with an external Arduino board that controls all the different parts. The Arduino board is responsible for sending wireless notifications to caregivers and alerting the senior that a pill is required to be taken. The acoustic signals as well as the light will remain on for a brief time, then bleep once every 10 seconds until the senior has a response. The pillbox will then dispensing the pill, and the LEDs and internal speaker will turn off.