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Prescribe Assistive Technology (AT) and train individuals on how best to utilize the best fitting AT in order to improve quality of life and engagement/participation in occupations. OTs working with the pediatric population can prescribe AT to be utilized in the home, school setting, after school setting etc.
AT for this population has a wide variety and may help assist with physical disabilities, cognitive deficits, sensory processing, or a variety of other deficits and/or symptoms.

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In regard to productive aging, occupational therapy and assistive technology are aimed to promote safety and independence. Independence is aimed to be maintained for as long as possible within safe and reasonable guidelines through the prescription of assistive technology. OTs help clients find AT that works best for them and best meets their needs, help them acquire this AT and train them on how to properly use it within their daily lives. In regard to older populations, considerations regarding caregivers must also be made (if the client has a caregiver, whether they are living within their home or within an assisted living environment etc.)

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Occupational therapy and specifically assistive technology (AT) in regard to mental health is often overlooked however OT's and AT's role remains the same, to increase occupational functioning and occupational engagement/participation in the meaningful and valued occupations in an individual's life. OTs help find which AT will fit best for an individual, their diagnosis and their needs and then help them train to be able to fully utilize the AT in order to benefit their life and occupational engagement.

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The role of OT in rehabilitation and disability is to help individuals be able to engage in their meaningful occupations that they want and need to do with the highest degree of independence. Assistive technology plays a very prevalent role within this process whether that be for individuals with Parkinson's disease or individuals with a right leg below the knee amputation. The goal here is to increase independence, and occupational engagement and functioning by helping individuals pick the best AT for their needs and training them to utilize it properly. In regard to disability, injury and rehab, AT use may only be temporary until injuries heal or until a client learns to utilize a more advanced piece of AT. However for some conditions such as paraplegia, AT use is permanent and AT may be utilized for a variety of different tasks.

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Assistive technology (AT) pertaining to health and wellness can help increase individual's participation with occupations that help increase and/or maintain their overall mind and body wellness. Occupational therapists play a key role in the promotion of health and wellness as a holistic field however this also connects with assistive technology. Prescription and training regarding AT is still an active part of AT and OT with health and wellness.

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Occupational therapy and assistive technology (AT) within the scope of work and industry will mainly address ergonomics, workspace organization, and set up as well as the prevention of cumulative trauma disorders or chronic pain (such as from improper posture).
Occupational therapists can assess an individual's workspace whether at home or at work or performs assessments on a larger scope for an entire company. AT can be prescribed to prevent eye strain, back or neck pain, joint or muscle strain or the development of conditions such as carpal tunnel. Environmental adaptations are vital within this setting.
Work adaptations can also be made for individuals with existing deficits, injuries etc.

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Occupational therapists can play a vital role within advocacy and research pertaining to assistive technology (AT). Occupational therapists can work within research or be consultants for those who are research certain AT. Occupational therapists can also advocate for AT both on small and large scales whether that be advocating to an insurance company about a client's need for certain AT or speaking to the MAOT, AOTA or representatives for more access and coverage for AT in healthcare.

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Wheelchairs - Manual wheelchairs are low tech while power wheelchairs are high tech. Both help individuals with lower extremity motor/physical deficits and/or disabilities. Individuals with cerebral palsy, paraplegia etc. can benefit
Audiobooks - for individuals struggling with reading due to cognitive deficits, learning disabilities, dyslexia, low vision
Optimal Character Recognition - beneficial for individuals with low vision; can be helpful with homework, class assignments etc.
JabTalk, Icommunicate, SayIt, CBoard - Tablet, computer and phone apps to help nonverbal children be able to communicate with family, peers and teachers
Noise-blocking headphones - beneficial for individuals with sensory processing issues, autism etc.

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High Tech Mobility Devices - Motorized Scooters or Power Wheelchairs - helps with mobility, motor and movement related deficits
Personal Alarms (Life Alert) - wearable assistive technology in the form of necklaces to promote safety in the instances of falls for individuals with impacted balance or limited mobility. Very beneficial for individuals who live alone.
Hearing Aids - AT to help with loss of auditory capabilities to help individuals be able to hear clearer and participate in occupations such as peer communication.
Reminder Alarms and Clocks - Beneficial for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory loss. Talking clocks such as the ORKA or devices such as the Echo Dot or Alexa are also beneficial.
Screen readers - for cellphones, tablets, and computers, can help individuals losing their eyesight and/or with low vision navigate technology.

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What's My M3 - an app helpful for individuals with mental illness specifically mood disorders in order to track their symptoms and emotions and detect when it is necessary to seek treatment, a counseling appointment, or inpatient services. Aids with crisis planning and management.
Sleep Trackers (Oura Ring) - helps with individuals with depression or manic episodes of bipolar disorder track sleep and identify what is an appropriate amount.
Depression CBT - application to track mood, keep an online journal with prompts, and learn about cognitive behavioral therapy.
Headspace - a mindfulness app, addressing stress and anxiety, offering guided meditation and other relaxing sessions in order to promote calm and relaxation.
Rescue Time - a software that helps track usage of time specifically in regard to website and app use in order to help form good habits and help individuals become aware of negative habits and cycles. Promotes wellness and stepping away from screentime.

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Power Wheelchairs - Beneficial mobility device for a variety of disabled individuals including those who have experienced a spinal cord injury (paraplegic or quadriplegic).
Brain Computer Interface - Beneficial for nonverbal individuals to utilize communication AT. Helpful for individuals with ALS. Helpful to control devices such as phones, computers or mobility devices.
Hands Free Nail Trimmer - Beneficial for individuals with limb difference (such as for individuals who have an upper limb amputation) in order to clip their nails independently.
Speech Easy - Beneficial AT for individuals with speech difficulties and stuttering, commonly utilized by individuals with Parkinson's Disorder. Wearable device, that decreases stuttering.
Hairdryers with attached stand - Beneficial for hands-free hairdryers either due to limb difference, quadriplegia, or tremors.
https://www.amazon.com/CHRUNONE-Rotating-Hands-Free-Countertop-Adjustable/dp/B07ST5NLD1/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=hands+free+hair+dryer+stand&qid=1598887794&refinements=p_72%3A1248873011&rnid=1248871011&s=beauty&sr=1-5

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HLGOLDLUO Hair Dryer Stand, 360 Degree Rotating Lazy Hair Dryer Stand Hand Free With Heavy Base, Hands-Free Blow Dryer Holder Countertop, Adjustable Height Hair Dryer Holder

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Amazon.com: HLGOLDLUO Hair Dryer Stand, 360 Degree Rotating Lazy Hair Dryer Stand Hand Free With Heavy Base, Hands-Free Blow Dryer Holder Countertop, Adjustable Height Hair Dryer Holder : Beauty & Personal Care

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Talk About Communicator - Button for verbal cues replacing the need for cueing from an in person caregiver. Beneficial for individuals requiring cueing for various occupations. decreased exposure to germs; especially relevant during COVID-19.
Adaptive Bikes - Both high tech and low tech options are available. Helps integrate physical wellness for individuals with different physical needs such as those with limited mobility, poor postural control, and/or LE function.
Fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors - Alarms with visual indicators instead auditory for those with limited auditory abilities or vice versa for those with low vision.
Adaptive exercise equipment (Vitaglide, Easy Stand Glider) - exercise equipment for individuals who are paraplegics and quadriplegics to be able to strengthen upper and lower body even with limited motor and sensory function.
Rescu - service/application available for deaf and hard of hearing individuals to call emergency services when needed.

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Track balls - an alternative to a traditional mouse, helpful for individuals with limited hand/finger function or with hand/finger pain
Other ergonomics mice - to alternate hand positions, limit pain, and helpful for individuals with varying hand/finger function (3M Wired Ergonomic Mouse & Orthomouse)
Touchpads - for individuals with low vision
Alternate Keyboards - Includes soft touch or flexible keyboards, and ergonomic keyboards (Goldtouch); helpful for decreasing the chance of injury, CTD, or pain
Smartpens - The Livescribe smartpen is a popular model. Allows for writing and recording simultaneously. This is helpful for individuals taking notes for individuals with low vision as well as helpful for individuals with memory and attention deficits.

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Research regarding high tech AT includes:
Device for Deaf individuals to know when someone is at their door: A personalizable mobile sound detector app design for deaf and hard-of-hearing users
Life Alert technology: Life Alert System for vulnerable adults who live alone
Hearing Aids: Sustained benefits of hearing aids
Mobile Apps (cognition specific): Training cognitive functions using mobile apps in breast cancer patients: systematic review
Smart Walkers: A review of the functionalities of smart walkers
Assistive mobility devices focusing on smart walkers: Classification and review

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Research regarding low tech AT includes:
Wheelchairs (primarily manual): Wheelchair rider injuries: causes and consequences for wheelchair design and selection
Low tech and High tech AT for memory deficits and dementia: Assistive technology for memory support in dementia
Pencil Grips: Determining the effectiveness of pencil grips: an electromyographical analysis
Adaptive Seat Cushions and Chairs: Impact of air seat cushions and ball chairs on classroom behavior of students with autism spectrum disorder
Shower Seats: Assisting people with disabilities to bathe and shower

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Grips - Helpful for handwriting with pens, pencils, markers etc., helpful for individuals with decreased grip, hand/finger pain. Wider/Thicker writing utensils also help with this.
Foot Rests- Helps decrease leg strain or potential pain (joints, muscles) while sitting for those whose feet do not rest on the ground when in an ergonomic chair (shorter individuals specifically would likely benefit from this or those with leg injuries or arthritis affecting the lower extremities)
Color coded work and task schedules - great for individuals with attention and memory deficits such as individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or individuals with cognitive deficits. Visuals such as pictures of the corresponding task or location may also benefit clients with these specific deficits.
Large text manuals, books, contracts, forms, etc. - Helpful for individuals with low vision
Lamps - Help with eye strain for dim lit work environments for individuals working in the evening or night. Certain lamps have a variety of light settings for different tasks and/or two different lamp heads to move around for varying needs. Certain lamps are also utilized to help address seasonal depression which may hinder an individual's work capacity.
Seat Cushions - Help with comfort, decreasing pressure on the hips and bottom, can help with sensory processing issues, and with individuals with hyperactive symptoms (ADHD).

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Running Blades - beneficial for individuals with LE amputations with running, jogging, and racing.
Underwater Water - makes walking and standing in the water accessible for individuals with limited mobility, balance or LE function.
Finger Protectors and Cut Resistant Gloves - utilized during cutting of produce and other foods to make cooking more accessible for individuals with tremors, limited hand function, low vision, etc. Helps promotes home cooking and decreases chance of injury.
Raised Toilet Seats - Promotes hygiene and safety with bathroom use for individuals with limited balance and mobility.

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Universal Cuff - Effective for individuals with Quadriplegia (impacted finger and hand function). Has interchangeable attachments for engagement in various occupations.
Page Pal Holder - Helpful for individuals with limb differences (such as an upper extremity amputation), enabled individuals to read a book and keep the book open with only one hand/arm.
Reachers - Helpful for individuals with limited arm and upper extremity range of motion, to pick up items, close curtains, etc.
Shower Hose - Helpful for individuals with limited ROM or difficulty with balance and standing when bathing. Helpful for individuals post hip replacement.
One Handed Belt - Beneficial for individuals with limb differences or with hemiparesis. Allows independence in putting on and securing a belt.

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Weighted Blankets - Assist in decreasing anxiety, increasing a feeling of calm and safety
Medication Calendar - A physical calendar with lists of what medication to take each day and areas to check off when medication has been taken in order to ensure accurate medication is taken when required.
Day of the week Pill Organizer - Organizes medication by each day, so the accurate amount of medication is already distributed and in the proper spot. Also helpful for paranoia, anxious thoughts or memory related deficits in ensuring medication was taken.
Self Care Journals - Helpful in keeping track of hygiene and health related tasks such as times/dates and frequency of showering, eating, sleeping. Helpful for the individual and healthcare team. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1147843395/self-care-self-love-wellness-guided?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_b-paper_and_party_supplies-paper-stationery-design_and_templates-templates&utm_custom1=_k_CjwKCAjwlqOXBhBqEiwA-hhitNzLy7_YQc6uqVTkWtSJJT9zeSPapu8nJCMq0Uj9DrGaCH9pOKxDbRoCk1sQAvD_BwE_k_&utm_content=go_12569673827_116851479742_507344185389_aud-1184785539978:pla-315907316571_c__1147843395_540409008&utm_custom2=12569673827&gclid=CjwKCAjwlqOXBhBqEiwA-hhitNzLy7_YQc6uqVTkWtSJJT9zeSPapu8nJCMq0Uj9DrGaCH9pOKxDbRoCk1sQAvD_BwE
Sensory/Fidget Toys - Subtle versions of fidget toys and jewelry are available to adults such as bracelets and rings to help decrease anxiety and manage sensory processing issues. Also can help with the prevention of self harm.  https://www.staples.com/mindware-sensory-genius-sensy-band-mwa13785006/product_24424285?cid=PS:GS:SBD:PLA:OS&gclid=CjwKCAjwlqOXBhBqEiwA-hhitATPwsfD0g-zx8fSS7YsPK0AnFBvS-capmAt513oTqn6ee0OQ5jS8hoCI4oQAvD_BwE

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Self-care Journal 63 Pages PDF :

Contains :
Self Love
My happy place
Life balance wheel
My ideal life
Mood tracker
Selfcare checklist
Self care goal
Daily manifest
Daily self-care routine
Gratitude exercice
Self care exercice
Self assessment
Self-care goal
Mindset exercise
Limiting belief
...
And much more ..

Used as KDP self-care wellness Journal/notebook interior ...
Used as digital and printable.
Size 8.5x11''.

LEGAL INFORMATION
These prints can be used commercial purpose and use as your book interior in print or digital form and then sell the book online. You can't sell this item as it is to third parties as a digital book interior.

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If you have any questions about this print, please use the "Ask a Question" button next to the price and we'll get right back to you as soon as possible.

Learn more about this item

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Self-care Self Love Wellness Guided Journal With Prompts 63 - Etsy

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Self-care Journal 63 Pages PDF : Contains : Self LoveMy happy placeLife balance wheelMy ideal lifeMood trackerSelfcare checklistSelf care goalDaily manifest Daily self-care routineGratitude exercice Self care exerciceSelf assessment Self-care goalMindset exercise Limiting belief ...And much more .. Used as KDP self-care wellness Journal/notebook interior ...Used as digital and printable.Size 8.5x11''.

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Low Tech Mobility Devices - Walkers, Canes, Manual Wheelchairs - beneficial for individuals with motor, movement or mobility related deficits. Also helpful with balance.
Adaptive Apparel - Helpful for older individuals with chronic pain or conditions such as arthritis who may have hand/finger pain or limited ROM. Anti-strip adaptive apparel is also available for individuals with dementia who may frequently undress when inappropriate.
Self Wipe Toilet Aids - Helpful for individuals with limited dexterity to be able to use the bathroom with modified independence (specifically regarding the act of wiping).
Bed Rails/Handles - Beneficial for individuals with mobility, stiffness, and balance difficulties as well as individuals with vertigo or those who need assistance transferring in and out of bed.
Shower Seats - beneficial for bathing and personal hygiene whether being completed mod (I) or with min (A) or mod (A). Helpful for individuals with impacted balance, mobility or LE strength/endurance

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Orthotic devices (crutches, walkers etc.) - beneficial for individuals with mobility and motor difficulties/disabilities
Fidget devices - can help enable engagement in occupations and promote attention for individuals with attention related symptoms and difficulties
Adaptive Eating Utensils and Plates - The scooper plate and plate guards for difficulty with fine motor skills and to avoid mess when eating.
Weighted Blankets - for sensory processing issues; can help calm, and decrease anxiety and panic attacks
Page tabs/Page fluffers - help children with decreased fine motor skills be able to read and flip pages independently

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https://at.mo.gov/kids-assistive-technology/
The Kids Assistive Technology Program helps provide funding for AT for pediatric individuals requiring AT without sufficient finances to afford it.

https://www.readingrockets.org/article/assistive-technology-kids-learning-disabilities-overview

https://study.com/academy/lesson/occupational-therapy-assistive-technology.html#:~:text=Occupational%20therapists%20play%20an%20essential,work%2C%20and%20in%20the%20community.

https://www.theottoolbox.com/adaptive-equipment-for-eating/

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Program Update

The KAT Program is currently funded. Information on other funding resources can be found by visiting our assistive technology funding page.

Kids Assistive Technology

The Kids Assistive Technology program (KAT) can provide limited funding for assistive technology, vehicle access modifications and some home access modifications for children under age 21.

The purpose of the KAT Program is to provide help when:

* No other funding source is available.
* When other funding sources are not enough to cover the costs of the needed assistive technology or access modifications.

Applications for children in families of lower income receive priority. More information is available below on eligibility requirements.

Assistive technology devices and equipment are those used to increase, maintain, or improve independence. Examples of assistive technology devices covered in this program include:

Adaptive vehicle modification such as wheelchair lifts, turney seats, power chair carriers Adapted computer equipment

Home owner adaptations for access such as:

Materials and labor for items such as adding wheelchair ramps, widening of doorways
Making a bathroom more accessible

Installing bathroom grab bars or hand rails, purchasing hand held shower equipment, elevated toilet seats, and toilet safety rails

Augmentative communication devices

Mobility aids

Environmental controls

Hearing aids and devices

Vision and Braille devices, and others

Assistive technology services such as the cost of an evaluation or training to use assistive technology are also eligible

KAT Does Not Cover

Assistance is not available through the program for instructional software, items such as air conditioners or purifiers, purchasing a vehicle, weighted vests, equipment used in therapy, monitors, medical items such as cochlear implants or medical supplies. Major home renovations such as adding a room or yard fencing to a home cannot be provided through the program.

To qualify for the KAT Program the participant must:

Be a Missouri resident

Be birth up to 21 years of age

Have considered, applied for or exhausted other possible funding options. Visit our assistive technology funding page for further options -Funding Resources

If awarded other matching funds, have the funding source document the committed matching funding before applying

Have an eligible special health care need: (conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, Cystic Fibrosis, Cleft Lip and Palate, Hearing disorders, Hemophilia, paraplegia, Quadriplegia, Seizures, Spina Bifida, and Traumatic Brain Injury).
If the child has a developmental disability, mental health disability or behavioral disability that is the diagnosis for the requested AT, these diagnoses are NOT covered under the KAT Program. (Examples are: Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD or intellectually disability.) See below for a resource to find further assistance.

Meet financial eligibility guidelines (family income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines)

For kids with developmental disabilities that do not meet the above eligibility, we have more details on our website for AT Waiver options. Missouri Developmental Disability Waivers - all ofMissouri's DD Home and Community-Based waivers now include a service called "Assistive Technology" (AT) that can cover a wide range of AT.

Submit and mail in the completed application to MoAT, 1501 NW Jefferson St., Blue Springs, MO, 64015. After reviewing our description above, please call our office if you are seeking funding for an item not mentioned in the examples above. If you have more questions or need a copy of the application mailed to you, contact Eileen at Missouri Assistive Technology via e-mail at ebelton@mo-at.org or call (800) 647-8557.

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The KAT Program is currently funded. Information on other funding resources can be found by visiting our assistive technology funding page. The Kids Assistive Technology program (KAT) can provide limited funding for assistive technology, vehicle access modifications and some home access modifications for children under age 21.

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https://www.agespace.org/tech/assistive-technology

https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/must-have-assistive-devices-for-seniors

https://familymattershc.com/assistive-devices-for-seniors/

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Assistive Technology helps people to live healthy, satisfying and independent lives. There are many devices and systems that are included when we talk about assistive technology - from screen readers to accessible mobile phones, telecare to memory aids.

In this guide we will introduce you to the different types of assistive technology available for the elderly, talk about the benefits and assumptions people might have, and point you in the direction of available funding.

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology is any device, equipment, gadget or gizmo that helps to bridge gaps in a person's ability to live the full, independent and fulfilling life they want to. Assistive technology can help many different people in different ways, but for elderly people the main goal is to reduce reliance on other people and care systems and to help them to stay in their homes for longer.

Benefits of Assistive Devices

Assistive technology can help many people in different ways, whether it be someone living with dementia to remember certain things, a stroke survivor to communicate, a visually impaired person to access the internet, or even just a healthy older person to help secure their home.

Assistive devices that are most likely to help your elderly relative are usually electronic gadgets. Health can be improved with medication reminders, pill dispensers, and telehealth systems. Independence and comfort might be focused on with virtual assistants, visual and communication aids, and memory aids. Assistive technology can also be used for home safety and security - smart smoke alarms and doorbells, automated lighting and water-overflow devices to name a few. We'll give you some more examples below!

The Different Types of Assistive Technology & Devices

There are many examples of assistive devices that you can purchase to help your elderly relative around the house and to stay independent for longer, allowing you to worry less.

Personal Alarms

These small wearable pendants mean that help is only a button press away, 24/7. Working with a central hub that lives next to your parents' landline, personal alarms alert either you, a close chosen contact or a monitoring team and allow you to talk directly to them, work out what is wrong, and get suitable help to them quickly. These are especially useful for if an older person has had a fall and can't get themselves up.

Telecare Systems

Personal Alarms are often included in telecare monitoring systems - digital activity monitoring using sensors throughout the home. Much like sensor burglar or car alarms, telecare monitoring systems only sound the alarm when they detect something out of the ordinary or wrong. If your parent doesn't leave their bed in the morning or hasn't shut the front the door, a 24/7 monitoring team (or you via an app) are alerted and a neighbour might be asked to check up on them.

GPS Trackers

Much like personal alarms, and sometimes embedded in them, GPS trackers are worn on the body and do exactly what you expect them to do. These fobs, and wristbands allow you to know where your parent is if they aren't answering the phone or haven't been home in a while. If you care for someone with dementia, who is prone to wandering, GPS trackers are a great, low-cost solution.

Home Safety and Security

There are lots of small gadgets and gizmos that can help make life a little easier and safer in the home - and most of them are fairly cheap! It may not be the 'smart home of the future' we were all promised but little individual devices can all help do their part to make the home a safer place to be for the elderly and help their carers to worry a little less. Smart doorbells and locks can improve the security of their homes, while also helping you to keep an eye on them and the people that might be visiting them. Smart lighting, specialist smoke and fire alarms, and water overflow sensors do their part to improve the safety of your parents' home - helping them to live independently for longer.

Memory Aids

For many, forgetfulness is part of the natural ageing process and does not necessarily have to be a symptom of dementia. The good news is there are many types of assistive technology designed to help remind your mum or dad to remember their keys, feed the cat, or that they need to take a pill. Memo reminders, automatic pill dispensers and many other devices can all help take some of the stress away from needing to remember everything we need to in daily life.

Communication Aids

There are assistive device solutions to potential communication difficulties an older person may encounter. Accessible mobile phones can help keep older people connected to their friends and loved ones, reducing loneliness and isolation - unfortunately common among the elderly. For those living with a speech impairment, speech generating devices can help give them a voice again.

Visual Aids and Screen Readers

Visual impairment should not stop the elderly making use of some of the wonderous technology we have today, like computers, tablets and smartphones. Assistive technology can help people who can't or struggle to see to navigate these devices. Screen Readers read out what is going on on the screen of computers, smartphones and tablets, helping the visually impaired to move around the device, select next actions, and access the internet. Most devices these days have screen reader options built into the accessibility controls, however there are also some other downloadable options that might work better for you.

The most popular application for Mac computers and iPhones is VoiceOver (built in/ free), and for Windows try JAWS (paid) or NVDA (free).

Funding for Assistive Technology

Some types of assistive technology can be supplied for free by your local authority as part of a care package. The main aim of local councils with social care is to help an elderly person to stay independent, at home, for longer and so assistive technology can be a relatively inexpensive way to aid this, often removing the need for a full time carer.

To have access to funding help from your local council, your elderly relative will have to undergo a care needs assessment, to decide first whether they are applicable for help, secondly what can be done to help, and finally how much of the help the council can provide.

Once they have completed the needs assessment, a social worker can talk through the options they think might help your relative to stay safe and independent, many of which might include assistive technology. These talks are meant to be discussions on what is best for your relative - so if you think that a particular assistive device might help, you can put it forward as an option.

VAT Exemption

If your elderly relative is registered as disabled, or has a long-term health condition, where applicable, they can to claim that the cost of VAT be removed from a range of assistive technology. This can really add up to a substantial saving - so it is always worth checking if a product is available for VAT exemption.

Ethical Considerations with Assistive Technology for the Elderly

There are some reasons to consider that might mean assistive technology might not be suitable for your elderly relative. Some people will be worried or uncomfortable with the idea of digital monitoring and activity surveillance. While most assistive technology, like those using motion sensors, don't actively record activity with video or send information to anyone, some telecare packages and smart doorbells do record and store video - which may be unsettling to some people. While these products have worked hard on maintaining privacy, this is certainly something to consider when looking into assistive tech, especially making sure your relatives are comfortable living with them.

Other questions that are important to ask when it comes to assistive devices are whether they overcomplicate the task they are trying to simplify for you elderly relative, and whether they reduce social contact that your relative enjoys. For example, getting a digital pill dispenser might mean your parent doesn't see a social care worker as often, or installing a telecare package might mean an elderly person needs less welfare visits from friends.

There are lots of variables to consider when choosing assistive technology, but when it is implemented correctly, it can really help to make older people safer and happier.

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A Complete Guide to Assistive Technology for the Elderly

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Assistive Technology helps people to live healthy, satisfying and independent lives. There are many devices and systems that are included when we talk about assistive technology - from screen readers to accessible mobile phones, telecare to memory aids.

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https://guides.library.illinois.edu/c.php?g=515363&p=3522696

https://www.explorevr.org/sites/explorevr.org/files/files/AT%20MH%20Part%201%20FINAL.pdf

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https://www.spinalcord.com/paraplegia

https://www.flintrehab.com/tools-for-quadriplegics/

https://guides.library.illinois.edu/c.php?g=651961&p=4573031

https://clipdifferent.com/top-10-assistive-devices-for-upper-limb-loss/

https://speecheasy.com/

https://www.als.org/research/research-we-fund/scientific-focus-areas/assistive-technology

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https://www.freedomconcepts.com/product-lines/adaptive-bikes/

https://at.mo.gov/information-resources-publications/documents/MASSTACLE_Supplement.pdf

https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/older-adults-disabilities/older-adult-services/assistive-technology

https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2021/05/rescu.html

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https://www.aota.org/~/media/Corporate/Files/AboutOT/Professionals/WhatIsOT/WI/Facts/ergonomics.pdf

https://www.aota.org/~/media/Corporate/Files/Practice/Manage/Home-Office-Ergonomics-Tips.pdf

https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/2018-12/fy14_sh-26336-sh4_Ergonomic-Assessment-Checklist.pdf

https://ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/Documents/Computer%20Workstation%20Ergonomics%20Self%20Assessment%20Checklist.pdf

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https://www.misericordia.edu/speech-language-pathology/additional-program-info/assistive-technology-research-institute-atri#

https://www.atia.org/home/at-resources/at-research/

https://www.air.org/project/center-technology-and-disability

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The Assistive Technology Research Institute (ATRI) at Misericordia University is a regional resource to provide information and education in the application of assistive technology and universal design principles to allow individuals with limited function to participate in their personal lives and their communities to the greatest extent possible.

The Institute activities include research into the usability of devices and products that are specifically marketed to allow individuals with disabilities improved function (assistive technologies) and products that are intended for the general population, but have been designed to be usable by people with functional restrictions as well as able-bodied individuals.

The Institute is not an engineering center, and does not evaluate the engineering soundness of products. The focus of the Institute is on the usability of devices by a diverse population.

Mission

The mission of the ATRI is to generate and disseminate knowledge supporting the use of assistive and universal technologies to allow individuals with disabilities and/or reduced function to participate to the greatest extent possible in their personal lives and their communities. Active participation by students at Misericordia University will facilitate both their academic and professional development within their respective disciplines.

Vision

The Assistive Technology Research Institute(ATRI) will be the regional leader and primary resource for the application of knowledge related to assistive technology and universal design to improve the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with functional limitations.

Market

Much of the built environment is designed by, and designed for, young, able-bodied people. A significant portion of the population, whether through accident, disease, or normal aging processes, has experienced a reduced level of vision, hearing, mobility, strength and/or coordination that makes full participation in life both inside and outside the home difficult or impossible. ATRI's activities are intended to allow these individuals to more fully participate in their lives and communities.

Computer Access and Resources

Welcome to the ATRI Computer Access Resources Page. Information access for people with functional limitations has been a core interest at ATRI since its inception.

The resources on this page are of three types.

Product Reviews
As we have the opportunity to experience alternative access technologies, we will post our findings here. These reviews will be as objective as we can make them, and will be based on decades of experience in this area. However, the needs of different people are different, so it is entirely possible that a product that we don't like will be just what you need.
If you have a product that you would like to have reviewed, please contact atri@misericordia.edu, and we will arrange a review.

Access Resources not on the ATRI site
Some very good computer access resources are commercial, but downloadable. Others are free, but the developers need to track usage. In these cases, we will post links to the hosting site of the resources.

Access Resources on the ATRI site
We are constantly collecting resources, and will post them to the ATRI site, so that you can, in many cases, download the resources you need directly from ATRI.
Included in the ATRI On-Site resources will be many of the applications formerly available via the Trace website.

Research Projects in Assistive Technology and Universal Design Conducted at Misericordia University

Typing Styles in Current Usage

Authors: Denis Anson, MS, OTR, Courtney Otto, OTS, Melissa Templeton, OTS,Jenna Rakowsky, OTS, Hannah Muller, OTS, and Alicia Bryk, OTS

Year: Spring, 2011

The Elder Interface: Changing the Computer Experience by Accommodating the Sensory and Motor Changes of Normal Aging

Author: Denis Anson, MS, OTR/L

Year: Fall, 2006

The Elder Interface: Adapting Computers for Older Adults

Author: Denis Anson, MS, OTR/L

Year: Spring 2006

The Elder Interface

Researcher: Denis Anson

This project is seeking to identify changes to the standard computer interface that will improve access by elders. The identified changes will be either alterations of settings to the default computer, or no-cost/low cost add-ons to modify the operation of the computer.

Long-Term Functional Impact of Wheeled Mobility

Researcher: Denis Anson

It has been well documented that a high proportion of young wheelchair users develop injuries to their shoulders, elbows, and wrists over time. The affect of manual and powered mobility on the function of older wheelchair users has not been documented. This longitudinal study will track the levels of functional independence of older users of manual and powered mobility devices to assess changes .

Who Makes the Grade?: A Study of Dragon Naturally Speaking and Speak-Q Voice Recognition with Children

Researchers: Catherine Dempsey, Bethany McCullough, Elizabeth Mistrik, Amanda Morgan

Speak-Q is a new, novel approach to speech recognition, using it as an assist to conventional typing rather than as a replacement for the keyboard and mouse. The different feature set of Speak-Q makes a traditional comparison of products meaningless. This study will evaluate relative productivity of school-age children using Dragon Naturally Speaking or Speak-Q, to assess the usability of these products with a school-age population.

Text Generation: A Comparison of Dasher Software and Wivik Keyboard with a Chubon Overlay

Researchers: Marissa Maglioli, OTS, Chrissy Mancia, OTS, Christine Swink, OTS

Dasher is a new, novel input method for text that has little similarity to any other available input tool. This study will assess the utility of this product for text generation as compared with a more traditional on-screen keyboard.

Comparison of Single Digit Keyboards

Vanessa Klotz, OTS, Ashley Light, OTS, Angela Sancinella, OTS, Johnna Schickram, OTS

This study is comparing the efficacy of two competing single-digit keyboard layouts. The Chubon keyboard layout, developed in 1988, is included in a number of on-screen keyboards as the "Frequency Based" layout. The Fitaly keyboard was designed as an on-screen keyboard, and does not use the conventional 101 key keyboard layout. This study will compare the typing speeds achieved by typical novice users of these device.

Efficacy of three infrared head-pointing devices for mouse emulation tasks

Amanda Berry, Stacie Hershey, Janine Hoffman and Emily Usinowicz

This study is examining the relative performance of the three head-pointing assistive technology devices that are currently readily available for use by individuals with disabilities. These devices are the HeadMouse Extreme, for Origin Instruments; Tracker One, from Madentec Limited; and the SmartNav, from Naturalpoint.

Chubon & Dvorak: A Comparison of Alternative Keyboard Layouts

Denis Anson, MS, OTR/L, Jacqueline Doninetz, OTS, Christine Hess, OTS, Tara Kelly, OTS, & Kimberly Roig, OTS

This study is part of a series to establish a standard metric for alternative text input systems. Historically, nearly all comparisons of alternative keyboard layouts have indicated that the QWERTY layout, the standard for computer keyboards, is the best, in spite of its known ergonomic deficiencies. This study, combined with past studies comparing the Chubon with QWERTY and Dvorak with QWERTY will form the basis of a demonstration that new technologies can be compared against a standard measure, in order to provide relative utility information, which will be available on the ATRI website.

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assistive technology research institute (atri)

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Assistive Technology Research Institute (ATRI) - Misericordia University

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The Assistive Technology Research Institute (ATRI) at Misericordia University is a regional resource to provide information and education in the application of assistive technology and universal design principles to allow individuals with limited function to participate in their personal lives and their communities to the greatest extent possible.

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https://youtu.be/66CWj2sSCM0

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Assistive Technology for Seniors in 2022

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https://youtu.be/pKUiS_hpXTs

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Easterseals Iowa - Assistive Technology Program

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Assistive Technology for Health and Wellness

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https://youtu.be/ItGGGN4jeYE

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Jane Velkovski: The life-changing power of assistive technologies | TED