Assistive technology helps disabled people lead a more independent life.
Assistive technology gives individuals with physical and motor impairments access to the world around them. It provides people with limited or severely limited mobility a way to live a more independent lifestyle. Assistive technology is used in school and home environments to extend capabilities and enhance quality of living.
Assistive Technology
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, assistive technology is defined by the Technology Related Assistant Act of 1998 as any "item, piece of equipment, or set of products that helps a person with a disability to increase or improve his/her functional abilities".
Impairment Definitions
The General Medical Council defines motor impairments as those involving "a loss or limitation of function in muscle control or movement or a limitation in mobility." This disability includes difficulties caused by arthritis, paralysis, and limb loss. California State University Northridge defines a physical impairment as involving a number of disabilities including "orthopedic, neuromuscular, cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders." Physical impairments may be the result of injury or disease.
Control Assistive Technology
Control devices aid in mobility or in the completion of functions. Wheelchairs, walkers and canes help individuals with mobility problems get from one destination to another. Mouth sticks and head wands are devices that give users control over the environment. Mouth sticks are manipulated by the mouth; head wands are controlled with a stick that is strapped to the head. Single-switch access assistive technology provides control by using a single body movement.
Computer Assistive Technology
The General Medical Council lists several types of computer assistance. An over-sized trackball has a roller ball on top of the mouse to make it easier to move and control. Adaptive keyboards help motor-impaired individuals use computers. These keyboards come in a number of varieties, including over-sized, compact, on-screen and ABC formats. Eye tracking technology follows the eye movements of the disabled person to aid in website navigation. Voice recognition software allows users to enter and control computers through a microphone. Slow keys prevent mistakes on keyboards by requiring the user to hold down a key for a period of time before it registers. Slow keys are beneficial for individuals who have a hard time controlling their motions. Sticky keys use modifier keys, such as Command, Shift and Control, to automatically apply the next keystroke.
Home Assistive Technology
Devices provide assistance for doing ordinary chores and tasks. Sensitive sound switches make it easy to turn on lights. Devices for the kitchen include over-sized utensils and handles to make gripping and holding easier. Automatic feeders are controlled by chin, foot or hand switches for people who cannot hold an eating utensil. Grab bars, shower benches, bathtubs with doors and bathtub lifts make it easier to perform everyday functions in the bathroom. Poles, control switches, wheelchair lifts, large handled grooming devices, velcro closures and flashing light systems are other commonly used devices to help mobility impaired individuals in the home.
