Assistive technology

Assistive technology is a generic term that includes adaptive, assistive, and rehabilitative devices along with the process used in selecting, locating and using all of these.Assistive technology is extremely helpful for people with disabilities because it helps them perform tasks they otherwise may not have been able to perform.Assistive technology devices are aids which provide an enhancement for a physical or mental impairment.They can be purchased in stores, commercially, or even handmade.These types of technology devices can drastically help improve any individual performance on daily tasks.

Assistive technology Products
There are many different types of assistive technology products out there today to help those with disabilities feel more competent in what they do.Here are some of the ways and products that assistive technology has on the market today.

• Telecare is an assistive technology product that uses electric sensors which are connected to an alarm system.This type of product helps vulnerable people stay independent at home longer.The most commonly known assistive technologies in this area are probably products for senior citizens.Things such as fall detectors, unlit gas sensors, etc.These types of assistive technology products can be custom made to meet the needs of every different customer.If the alert ever goes off a caregiver or care center is alerted and they can respond to the person's need.


• Assistive technological computer accessories have also been designed to aid in with persons and disabilities.Sitting at a desk with a keyboard and mouse seems to be the dominant way for individuals to interact, so assistive technology has made that somewhat easier.They have created some very ergonomic accessories such as footrests, arm supports, etc.Some of the more specific products are chorded keyboards, keyboards with big letters, scroll wheels on mice, and even foot mice.


• Medical equipment has also been created using assistive technology.The true term for it is Durable Medical Equipment, or DME.Products have been created to help individuals sit more comfortably like cushions, or therapeutic seats, as well as products to help support those with disabilities in standing like standing frames, or standing wheelchairs.Probably the most commonly seen medical equipment in this field of work is for those who need help walking such as senior citizens; canes, crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs and scooters for those who cannot walk at all.These have all been created for this specific need.


• Assistive technology also plays a role in learning disabilities and visual impairment.You may have seen some of the software for hand eye coordination, or study skills in many different elementary, junior high, and high schools.Assistive technology has really played a big role in education and continues to aid those students that have extra needs.Visual impairment has also benefited from much assistive technology and largely depends on the user's level of vision function.


• And yet another well known part of assistive technology is deafness and hearing loss.Things such as devices for the deaf, radio aids, paging alarm systems, and door bell lighting systems have all been produced for those with disabilities.

Assistive technology seems to have reached and continues to reach almost every part of the Western culture.From education to medicine assistive technology continues to help make life a little easier for persons with disabilities.