Assistive Technology, Tutorial Eight

Assistive Technology. Tutorial Eight

Assistive technology is defined as “the science or study of practical or industrial arts applied science and a method process etc. for handlings a specific technical problem” (WHO, 1980). It however does not state anything about the use of a device. It is based more upon the context in which this process is applied and the knowledge of the process. It could be assumed that it is the method in which people administer the use of assistive technology and the particular settings in which it can be used to address a problem that is evident in the environment. It is important in the practice of Occupational Therapy to use technological devices, service and strategies to improve the quality of functioning among some cliental. Assistive technology device is “any item, piece of equipment or product system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities” (Public Law, 100-407). There are two main divides in the use of technological devices. One being assistive technologies versus rehabilitative technologies. Technology that helps an individual to carry out functional activity is termed assistive technology, and technology that is used in the rehabilitative process is used as a tool for remediation or rehabilitation to develop skills.

“Perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Assistive technology can include mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs, as well as hardware, software, and peripherals that assist people with disabilities in accessing computers or other information technologies. For example, people with limited hand function may use a keyboard with large keys or a special mouse to operate a computer, people who are blind may use software that reads text on the screen in a computer-generated voice, people with low vision may use software that enlarges screen content, people who are deaf may use a TTY (text telephone), or people with speech impairments may use a device that speaks out loud as they enter text via a keyboard”. (Acessit, 2002).

One particular technological device that is used and described is to facilitate performance in a unique area. Some examples of assistive technological devices used to assist communication are manual and powered wheelchairs, feeding devices, hearing aids. Powered wheelchairs can specifically be modify to suit the participant. For example the use of a joystick on a powered wheelchair to enhance the participation of the applicant. One particular powered wheelchair that has good recommendations is the TPX SP/SR Power wheelchair. There are particular things that need to be considered when buying a wheelchair. Factors such as the client going to be using the wheelchair, the purpose of it, and the technological devices that can be attached to aid the mobility of the client. This particular wheelchairs is made for rehab clients who demand performance

Width: 61cm

Length: 90cm

Turning Radius: 56cm

Seat to floor:                 - Power tilt: 45 cm

-  Super low: 50.5 cm

Curb Climbing: 7.6 cm

Chair weight: 143cm including battery

Chair weigh limit           - 136kg standard

-  180kg Heavy duty

Top speed: 9.6kph standard

Seat width: 30-60 cm

Seat depth: 30-55cm

Back height: 30-60cm

Electronics to add- MK6i MPS expandable controller

Total price including tax is starting at $7,205.00

References

University of Washington. (2002).What is assistive technology? , retrieved 13/05/2011, from http://www.washington.edu/accessit/articles?109   

World Health Organization: International classification of impairments, disabilities and handicaps, Geneva, Word Health Organization, 1980