Assistive Technology

Assistive technology are a “broad range of devices, services, strategies, and practices that are conceived and applied to ameliorate the problems faced by individuals who have disabilities” (Cook & Polgar, 2012, p. 2).

So it is something that can help improve/ function easier a problem that the individual is facing. Don’t think it should just apply to the people whom have a disability.

Or other definition of assistive technology stated by Assistive Technology Act of 1998- “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities” (as cited in Radomski & Trombly Latham, 2008, p. 952).

It can be as simple as a solution as an easy reach or sitting down to put your shoes on.

The Wobble Switch

The Wobble Switch can be easily adapted for a variety of uses in one's environment. Can make it plug into most things with an adaptor and this allows the person when to turn on and off things. “Although it only requires a slight movement of about 6mm in any direction to actuate, the spring allows the 90mm tall lever to easily move out of the way of sweeping or erratic movements” (Kiatronics, 2009). You can mount the Wobble Switch in most places; could use velcro or permanently attach with screws to that place you wish. It cost $185.96 NZ dollars.

To me I really got a lot of enjoyment out of being part of the group when I couldn’t communicate and pretend that I only had head range of movement. I got to use a wobble switch. I can really see the benefit of these and they are very easy to set up. Dave Speden- guest lecturer stated these were used often when doing cooking or music with individuals in a group, so all could contribute in a way. Gives them control; you can add it to any device to allow control of the power.

References:

Cook, A., & Polgar, J. (2012). Essentials of assistive technology. St. Louis, Missouri, USA:            Elsevier

Kiatronics. (2009). Electronic design and manufacture. Retriecved April 25, 2012 from
            http://www.kiatronics.com/aged-care-products/switches-and-pendants/wobble-switch.html

Radomski, M., & Trombly Latham, C. (2008). Occupational therapy for physical dysfunction. (6^th ed)             Philadelphia : Lippincott Williams & Wilkins