Assistive Technology Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of adaptive technology?

To make technology affordable for everyone.

To improve general user experience for all individuals.

To maintain or increase capabilities of people with disabilities. (correct)

To create entertainment software for children.

Which of the following is an example of adaptive technology for individuals with visual impairments?

Digital cameras.

Standard computer mouse.

Gaming consoles.

Screen magnifiers. (correct)

What does TTY stand for in reference to adaptive technology?

Text Talker for Youth.

Televised Text Yield.

Telephone Typewriter. (correct)

Telecommunication Typing Yes.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of adaptive technology?

It is typically used by individuals without disabilities. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of screen reader software?

To read text displayed on computer screens aloud. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of a standing wheelchair?

To allow users to interact at eye level Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a physical benefit of using a standing wheelchair?

Increased fatigue levels Signup and view all the answers

How can standing wheelchairs improve bowel function?

Through promoting regular exercise Signup and view all the answers

What psychological benefit is associated with using standing wheelchairs?

Improved ability to complete routine tasks independently Signup and view all the answers

What impact do standing wheelchairs have on joint and muscle tightness?

They temporarily relieve tightness Signup and view all the answers

What research finding relates standing wheelchairs to bone health?

They improve bone density Signup and view all the answers

In what way does prolonged sitting negatively affect wheelchair users?

Leads to muscle atrophy and fatigue Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism can be utilized by standing wheelchairs to achieve movement?

Hydraulic lifting mechanisms Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential benefit of using a standing wheelchair?

Provides the ability to stand which can help minimize depression Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a mobility aid?

Roller walker Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of grab bars in a bathroom?

To provide support while standing up or sitting down Signup and view all the answers

How does a bath chair or bath bench contribute to well-being?

It helps save energy by allowing sitting while bathing Signup and view all the answers

What function do anti-slip rubber mats serve in a bathroom setting?

To provide a non-slippery surface when wet Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the function of tap turners?

They make it easier to turn faucets on and off Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended feature of the proper installation of grab bars?

Firmly fixed and placed at the correct height for safety Signup and view all the answers

After a stroke, which of the following mobility aids can enhance independence?

Walking canes and walking sticks Signup and view all the answers

Which assistive device allows for easier bathing without bending down?

Long handled brushes Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of using urinals for individuals with mobility challenges?

They can be utilized in any position, including lying down. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a bedside commode?

To provide easier access to a toilet when the bathroom is not reachable. Signup and view all the answers

Which assistive device is best for providing a stable grip when getting on/off the toilet?

Fixed grab bars Signup and view all the answers

What should be done regularly to maintain cleanliness when using bed pans and urinals?

Wash them regularly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended positioning for a user on a bedside commode?

Feet should touch the ground flat. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a fixed toilet frame?

To provide height adjustment for the toilet seat Signup and view all the answers

How are bed pans typically used?

For both bowel movements and urinating Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of a raised toilet seat?

It increases the height of the toilet for easier access. Signup and view all the answers

Which assistive device provides both increased support and height for toileting?

Toilet frame with seat Signup and view all the answers

How can you make it easier to cut nails if you have difficulty using your hands?

Soak your hands or feet in water to soften the nails. Signup and view all the answers

What should be ensured to reduce the risk of falls in the bathroom?

Keeping the bathroom floor dry at all times. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main use of a tube dispenser for toothpaste?

To dispense toothpaste without using both hands. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for assistive devices to have non-slippery surfaces?

To enhance the user’s safety. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended method for brushing teeth when one hand is weaker?

To primarily use the stronger hand while trying to involve the weaker hand. Signup and view all the answers

What alternative can be used if there is difficulty separating the sheets of toilet paper?

Use tissues or pre-separated wet wipe sheets. Signup and view all the answers

What is a suitable technique for dressing the weaker arm first?

Put in your weaker arm first. Signup and view all the answers

When pulling pants up, what should you do before standing?

Bring your pants up to mid-thigh. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to choose clothes made from cotton and natural fibers?

They are easier to launder and more comfortable. Signup and view all the answers

What role can long-handled reachers play in dressing?

They assist in reaching clothes that are too high or out of reach. Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid wearing to make the dressing process easier?

Tight-fitting clothes. Signup and view all the answers

How should you undress when seated?

Remove clothing from the weaker arm first and then the stronger arm. Signup and view all the answers

What adaptive device can assist with buttoning clothing?

Button hook. Signup and view all the answers

To prevent falls while dressing, what should you avoid?

Standing in socks or barefoot. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Assistive Technology and Adaptive Technology

Assistive technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, or product system used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capacities of individuals with disabilities.
AT promotes greater independence by enabling people to perform tasks they were previously unable to do, or had difficulty accomplishing. This is done by enhancing existing technology or changing interactions with the technology needed.

Examples of Assistive Technology

Exoskeletons: Advanced technology walking products for individuals who cannot walk or stand. Powered exoskeletons are motorized orthoses placed over a person's limb, corresponding to human joints. Their purpose is to facilitate standing, walking, and rehabilitation.
Structure: Robotic "limbs" and a backpack battery/computer system.
Weight: Typically 45 pounds.
Operation: Detects nerve signals sent from the brain to the muscles via sensors on the skin, then transmits the information to the suit's power unit, which moves the suit's robotic limbs in sync with the wearer's movements.
Controls: Operated by high-tech crutches (pressure on one means a step using the opposite leg; pressure on both means standing up). The wearer performs daily tasks like standing up from a chair, walking, climbing stairs, and lifting heavy objects.
Outcomes: Primary outcomes include gait, functionality, and safety (fracture, pain, cardio-pulmonary events). Secondary outcomes are neurological improvements, motor strength, bowel and bladder function, and spasticity reduction.
Standing Wheelchairs: Assistive devices facilitating standing positions for individuals with disabilities. They elevate/lower from a seated position for interactive eye-level engagement with people/objects
Functionality: Manually- or power-operated (with hydraulic or other mechanisms) for consistent mobility and assisted upright standing.
Use: Applicable for people with mild to severe disabilities.
Benefits:
Physical: Improved circulation, reduced spasticity, enhanced bowel function, reduced pressure sores, joint/muscle relaxation/strengthening.
Psychological: Greater independence and self-reliance for daily living activities like reaching for objects, replacing bulbs, and seeing reflections. Reduced fatigue and depression. Enhanced feelings of wellbeing and equality during social interactions.

Other Assistive Technologies

Seating: Therapeutic seats for safe and comfortable seating.
Walking aids: Canes, crutches, and walkers.
Mobility: Wheelchairs, scooters, lifts, and stair-lifts.
Bathing aids: Grab bars, bath chairs/benches, anti-slip mats, tap turners, long-handled brushes, and sponges.
Toileting aids: Urinals, bedpans, bedside commodes, fixed grab bars, toilet frames, raised toilet seats, toilet frames with seats/handles, and toilet paper/wet wipes.

Adaptive Technology

Designed for people with disabilities to increase or maintain capabilities. Not typically used by non-disabled people.
Examples:
- Screen magnifiers and adapted keyboards for visually-impaired.
- Telephone typewriters (TTY) for Deaf or hearing-impaired communication.
- Handheld amplifiers.
- Screen readers software (to read computer text).
- Digital Talking Book (DTB) players (audiobooks).
- Other specialized versions or adaptations of existing technologies/tools for those with specific limitations (e.g., special cars for vision-impaired individuals).

Grooming Aids

Cutting nails: Soaking in water first (softening). Using clippers (easier and reduces force) vs scissors, better grip design.
Brushing teeth: Tube dispensers for toothpaste application or use of stronger hand for toothbrush.

Dressing Aids

General advice: Comfortable environment, chair use, assistive assistance if needed, loose-fitting clothes (cotton/natural fibers).
Dressing techniques (sweaters/shirts): Garment placement, weaker arm first, pulling sleeves over elbows, grip on back for elevation, stronger hand to pull over head.
Undressing techniques (sweaters/shirts): Stronger arm first, weaker arm next, and similar process for pulling garments off.
Putting on pants: Weaker leg first, then stronger leg, bring up to mid-thigh and stand once both garments are secured.
Undressing techniques (pants): Stand up and pull down clothes. Sit to remove clothes/garments, avoid standing in socks or barefoot.
Dressing aids: Long-handled reachers, button hooks, long-handled shoe horns.

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Description

This quiz provides an overview of assistive and adaptive technology, focusing on their role in enhancing independence for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, it features specific examples such as exoskeletons, highlighting their structure, weight, and operation. Test your knowledge on how these technologies improve functional capacities.