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Unit 4

This is the website for Variety which is a children’s charitable organization that helps provide assistive technology devices for kids. This is a good organization to become familiar with because they are located in Saint Louis. As OT’s it will be beneficial to utilize this organization for our clients who might not have access to funds to have AT devices or if their insurance doesn’t cover it.

annagumbyot

Great find, Nadia! I agree that this is an extremely important resource for us, future OTs, to know. Especially, given that a decent number of us may remain in St. Louis in the future, being aware of Variety will enhance our abilities to be effective OTs for all of our clients.

Wayfindr is a navigation system for individuals who are blind or significantly visually impaired. It is an app that operates through one’s cell phone, and vocalizes step by step directions for the individual. The directions are communicated to the device through bluetooth beacons that are set up around the location. These beacons help guide the navigation system so that the individual can get from point A to point B without the assistance of others. The company just received $1 million from Google’s philanthropic arm, which will undoubtedly help it launching into a successful and widely-used app. I am excited to see where this goes.

ATIA 2014 Orlando, the foremost learning and networking event for professionals, parents, and students in the field of Assistive Technology (AT). The biggest names and companies in AT will convene on January 29, 2014, to learn the latest cutting edge information, products, services and best practices in assistive technology for service professionals serving children, students and adults with disabilities.

UNIT 4

This website I found through a board I follow on Pinterest. It is an excellent resource that outlines many of the specifics about funding for assistive technology. On this website, insurance options are discussed and links are provided for more information on things such as Medicaid. There are also links and brief descriptions for private pay options as well as grants. I think resources like these are significant, especially as future OTs, as the funding aspect of assistive technology is something in which to be well-versed.

shanfoley

It's called Dot and it promises to be the new revolution in the field of wearable technology. Why? Because Dot has been designed specifically for use by visually impaired people. In the world we have…

Dot is a new product on the market for people with visual impairments to become closer with the technology world. It’s a lot smaller and more practical than the larger bulky braille machines. The device is much more sleek than most assistive technology. It allows people to access messages, notifications, and read e-books. It cost around $300 which is a lot cheaper than most braille devices on the market.

amylennis1-blog

This sounds awesome. Having a more sleek looking device that is also a refreshable Braille display is awesome. I wonder how well it works because it is only $300 and most technology with refreshable Braille display are much pricier than that. Great find though! Thanks.

annagumbyot

This is amazing! Good find, Shannon. I think that the similarity in asthetics to those of an apple watch is something appealing about this technology device for those with visual impairments. With the possible impact of society on an individual’s view of assistive technology as negative, this device is likely to diminish such negativity. I agree with Amy about the price of the device. It does seem a little inexpensive for the intricacy of it, which can be both good and bad. I agree that the quality of the device is questionable if the price is that low; however, the overall concept and design is truly awesome. I am excited to see or learn more about Dot.

UNIT 3

This video is a perfect example of the impact that advances in technology can have in aspects of life that may be taken for granted, such as the ability to see colors. This young man in the above video is diagnosed with color blindness, and has not experienced the beautiful colors of a sunset. With Enchroma Color glasses, he gets that opportunity. His reaction solidifies the powerful impact that assistive technology can have in the lives of those with a disability. With Enchroma Color, he as well as others who have been diagnosed with color blindness are given the ability to experience colors as they typically exist. Implications can consist of increasing safety through being able to see true colors as they are, as well as increasing and providing an extremely meaningful experience for the individual. There have since been in an increase in videos similar to this one that demonstrate the effectiveness and positivity behind this form of assistive technology for those with color blindness.

A new device will let people who communicate through sign language to translate their hand movements into spoken words.

UNIT 3

This is a very interesting find through an account I follow on Pinterest. Developers from Asia University have created bracelets and rings that, when worn together, can read sign language out loud. The rings and bracelets function by essentially reading or measuring the movements of the fingers/wrists/hands, which are then transmitted into the respective words or phrases that they represent and spoke out loud. The design is an extremely innovative way to encourage interaction between those individuals who are hard of hearing, or deaf, with those who have typically-functioning hearing. An area in which this device would be of great assistance would be shopping in a store of any kind and interacting with an employee. While it would be beneficial for every individual to know sign language, a great number of people are unfamiliar with the form of nonverbal communication. This device, with some fine tuning could become something great in the hard of hearing community. There is potential for errors in translation to occur that would otherwise not occur with the use of a traditional translator; however, translators are not on hand every hour of the day. Therefore, with assurance that this device is essentially foolproof, it could become widely accepted by institutions such as the National Association of the Deaf.

dawod123

Unit 2

In class we spoke about accessibility features that can be found on our devices. I pulled up the page for accessibility features of Apple devices. I think it is important to familiarize ourselves with these features because it can enhance productivity when individuals use these devices. I like how this page is set up because it allows you to pick an accessibility feature based on what you need such as, vision, hearing, physical/motor skills, and learning/literacy. If a device is not compatible with the individual’s needs, it may just need some simple adjusts. We should be able to access these features and teach our clients how they can adjust them to improve their function. There are also sites for android and other devices that explains the use of accessibility features.

marissabonney

This is a really great reference for someone who is using an apple device or is thinking about purchasing one. Technology is advancing so fast, it is hard to keep up with all of the features of these devices. Even when you are aware that something is there, sometimes it’s hard to understand how to use them. This is a very detailed, organized website that explains accessibility features in a way that people can understand and follow. As Ots, we need to be aware of whats going on with certain devices so we can help our clients function at the highest level!

annagumbyot

I agree with Marissa. This resource is extreme melt beneficial to us as future OTs. Just the other day in class, when being introduced to all the different customizations that can be made through the accessibility feature of the iPhone, I was amazed at how little I did know about what iPhone has to offer. It is likely that there are many people who are unaware of these accessibility functions on the iPad and iPhone, when the slightest change in accessibility can make all the difference. By being knowledgeable of this resource, we can inform future clients and help them become of these simple adjustments to a device that is so often used in everyday life. The populations of people that can benefit from adjustments through the accessibility feature are vast. And, as Nadia said, there are sites that describe in-depth the accessibility features on Android, so that we can also inform clients with devices made by Android of those adjustments that can be made. As OTs, it is our goal to encourage and support functionality and meaning in all that our clients do, and I think that being knowledgeable of simple and free options such as these is a sure way to achieve that.

psfk-blog

Folding Keyboard Looks Like a Flip Phone, Fits In Your Pocket

Flyshark 2 has lots of handy features like shortcuts for selfies, Internet searching and screen capturing

Read More On PSFK.com

bsandersot17-blog

This device is called a Flyshark keyboard. It is an alternative mini keyboard that provides physical keys which serve as an alternative to a touchscreen keyboard. It is compatible with Windows, iOS as well as Android. Although it has not been released yet, it provides the same efficiency as if you were typing on a laptop keyboard. Dr. C watch out for this one!

tbruns1

I really like this device. People who have difficulty seeing the touchscreen on a phone would benefit from this mini keyboard. This mini keyboard is bigger than the touchscreen and is overall easier to see and use. It is cool how it can work on both OS phones as well as android. I could see myself buying this neat gadget. It would reduce the amount of stress on my thumbs and would put me in a better hand position.

annagumbyot

I want one of these! Society is all about convenience, and what better way to maximize convenience for smartphone/computer/iPad users than to offer a pocket-sized keyboard for when accessing a regular keyboard or small touchscreen keyboard may prove too difficult? I agree with Tara, as well. It is great that this keyboard is not solely for Apple products or solely for Android products. Its lightweight, portable, and sleek design are alluring and will no-doubt attract consumers. For individuals who benefit from the use of a mini keyboard, and those who have difficulty using the one on smartphones, this will be a great solution. I am interested to see what comes of this.

katielovesot

Unit 2

The BAT is a levitating, wireless computer mouse that consist of a base and a floating mouse with a magnet ring. This product is designed to alleviate and prevent the symptoms of Carpal tunnel syndrome which is prone in active computer users. Currently, this device is in the testing period and is being researched. I think that this is a unquie and creative design that holds potential in helping active computer users with preventing and managing symptoms.I am curious to see if the users of this device are using keyboards in conjunction with the BAT. If the users are using keyboards, are they standard keyboards or are they adaptive or alternative keyboards. BAT users could also use on-screen keyboards which would increase the use of the BAT dramatically. I am curious if the researchers are venturing to look at the different combinations of hardware that could potentially aid in the prevention and management of Carpal tunnel syndrome.

chelseathome

Katie, this is an amazing find and a device that looks like its from the future! I can only hope the results of the testing prove to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome - Like Nadia said, this device could really benefit this population to increase their function, but I do question how it prevents carpal tunnel syndrome. The hardware for this device is different, but it still has the same features as a standard mouse.

ahill1-blog

I think this is such an interesting take on mouse adaptations. I am also wondering how the device is able to prevent carpal tunnel. It would be interesting to watch out for research studies on this type of device and see if it is able to do what it says it can!

tbruns1

This device looks so futuristic! I am curious how much weight this mouse can hold before it starts to pull down. I am also interested to learn the dynamic of the mouse and its correlation in preventing Carpal tunnel. If this device does turn out to work then it could provide a new way of how a mouse is structured.

annagumbyot

The design of this device caught my attention right away. Tara was right- very futuristic looking! I am also intrigued as to how strong the magnet is, due to the amount of pressure that may be placed on it. If it were to lower down, would that affect how the sensor picks up and translates the movement to the screen? It would be interesting to find out. I, too, would like to see how this new design and concept prevents carpal tunnel syndrome. It is, no doubt, extremely creative and a great approach/adaptation to the standard mouse. I wonder if it would be beneficial to offer multiple sizes, as well? It will be interesting to see or hear more about this product as it is still in the testing period.

UNIT 2

Found this one through Pinterest as well! This product takes the ergonomic computer armrest, and increases the functionality by adding a built in mouse pad to the design. The arm’s hinge points have been modified to create more free movements, while still providing significant comfort and support to the user. The ErgoArm is 18″ long at its maximum length, and is able to fit desks 3/8″ thick- 1 7/8″ thick. This product can relieve a large amount of stress that is placed on the wrist and shoulder during computer tasks. For individuals with arthritis and carpal tunnel, as well as “Mouse Shoulder” (tendonitis/inflammation in shoulder joint from repetitive and prolonged use of mouse and no arm support at computer), prolonged weight-bearing on these joints can create significant discomfort and can impact function on and off the computer. With capabilities of withstanding and supporting 24 lbs., the ErgoArm Computer Armrest w/ Mouse Pad relieves up to 90% of that weight that is typically placed on the wrists during computer tasks. For roughly $70, the armrest is not as cheap as a standard armrest extension; however, for the range of motion this newer model provides and the inclusion of a mouse pad, I would say it is worth the buy.

Liu Yi has created a design for a mouse which opens up computer use to those suffering from upper limb disabilities.

UNIT 2

Found this one through Pinterest! A wireless mouse designed for the foot. The Flip-Flop Toe Mouse possesses the same functions and actions as a standard mouse, but is designed for use by the first and second toe. Resembling a flip flop in structure (hence the name) this wireless mouse is constructed to be both comfortable and easy to use. Sensors underneath the big toe and second toe indentations detect any “click” movement produced. The big toe acts as the left click, the second as the right click. Double click is also achieved through this mouse. The big and second toe provide grip on the mouse through the flip flop-like portion that runs between these two toes. Because it is wireless, individuals are able to move it around as needed and it will still be picked up through sensors and translated on the screen as moved. This product is a terrific option for those who may be unable to use a standard mouse due to lack of upper extremity function or who may have a unilateral/bilateral amputation of the upper extremity. For these individuals, who may have developed quite a skill in using their feet to do tasks, this mouse may be second-nature to use. Unfortunately, more details on the product are unavailable, and I do not believe it is on the market yet.

UNIT 2

Claria Zoom is an Android App that caters to those individuals with low vision or difficulties using a standard Android phone. As stated in this article, Claria Zoom removes all the “clutter” that is on a typical Android phone, making it more user friendly for those who may have difficulty viewing or accessing the standard layout/functions of Android. Claria Zoom offers much larger text, voice recognition for text and emails, vocalized GPS, a book reader, electronic magnifier, phone, text messaging, emails, calendar, and camera. Additionally, the colors within the app can be adjusted based on the user’s needs, whether that be a stronger contrast in colors or not. Constant updates are being made to the app through the Google Play store, where it is available for $3.99/month, or a free 30 day trial. With the distraction of the numerous apps, icons, movements, etc. of a typical smartphone, accessibility can be made difficult for those with vision issues or the elderly population. This app allows individuals to have a more simplified interface to access their phones without the frustration. I do think that the app may take some time and practice to learn, however. Some actions seem complex, though they may be simplified through updates. I also like that Android is the focus for once, because most apps these days that we hear of are often through Apple. It is nice to see the steps Android is taking to increase accessibility for those with disabilities.

UNIT 2

AssistiveWare released the Keeble Keyboard for iPad in 2014. This virtual keyboard is in the form of an app, and requires iOS 8 or above. Keeble can be used within practically any app on the iPad, and is extremely customizeable based on the user’s needs. This is significant because of the number of potential users who may exhibit motor issues, dyslexia, vision impairments, and other disabilities. A downside to the Keeble Keyboard- it is only available in English. I would like to see this app available to other countries because of its usefulness for individuals accessing an iPad who may benefit from adaptations to typical typing. The app allows individuals to change the color of the keyboard, providing a greater contrast of colors, a feature significant for any user who may experience difficulties with vision. Another significant feature of Keeble is the ability to change the typical QWERTY format to ABC format if necessary- a feature that could possibly aid in the typing skills of individuals who may experience difficulty spelling or locating letters with the standard QWERTY keyboard. Word prediction is also included in the app, which is a step better than that provided by the iPad. This virtual keyboard also has a speech feedback feature (given by letter, by word, or by sentence), which is extremely beneficial for those individuals who have dyslexia or difficulties with spelling. For $15 in the App Store, I would say that Keeble Keyboard is a great purchase for those who may experience difficulty with a standard keyboard. It is relatively cheap compared to other software out there, and has a plethora of customizeable options to secure a best fit to the user.

UNIT 2:

OpticKey is an assistive onscreen keyboard software for Windows. Julius Sweetland, the creator of OpticKey, designed the software to be used with any low cost eye tracking device. The target population: individuals diagnosed with ALS or Motor Neuron Disease. This software offers speech as well as keyboard and mouse control to these individuals. Though designed with the intention to be used with an eye tracking device, OpticKey’s functions can also be achieved through clicks of the mouse or using a webcam. For those using an eye tracking device with OpticKey, dwell selection is utilized. Additionally, type speed is made faster by OpticKey’s feature of word completion. The most amazing thing about this software: it is completely 100% free. Having a personal connection to someone who had ALS, Julius Sweetland recognized the importance of a software such as OpticKey with this population, as well as the need to offer a product that contrasts the extremely expensive AAC devices out there. OpticKey is likely to make a large impact in the field of assistive technology, and specifically computer access for this population. There are numerous customizable settings and a user’s guide to aid setup of the software as well as understanding of the multiple features. The ability to be switch compatible is great for such a product and allows accommodation for individuals of various MND stages to access the computer. Though this is a new product, I believe it has a bright future. Improvements will likely be made, and its impact will continue to grow. I look forward to more and more individuals becoming aware of this software and it’s significance in the world of assistive technology.

A 30 minute video, but absolutely worth watching. I recommend giving this a look to get a first-hand account of what life as a college student with SCI is like in terms of assistive technology and its impact on occupations revolving around school. This young man is remarkably optimistic and enthusiastic about assistive technology, as he uses a variety to meet his school-based needs. His go-to is the iPad 2 for everyday use, but also uses Notability. He discusses his personal opinions of the assistive technology devices that he uses, both pros and cons, of which we may otherwise be unaware. I believe this is truly a valuable video, as it is an in-depth and personal conversation with the young man who has a level C5 SCI.

Freedom Concepts custom-builds mobility devices for individuals with disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, Angelman Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and visually impaired. Freedom Concepts Inc. (FCI) custom designed tricycles, walkers, chairs provide mobility and therapeutic benefits for thousands of special needs individuals throughout Canada and the U.S. Come for a test drive and experience the proven therapeutic value plus all the fun and excitement that comes from the freedom of mobility. Freedom Concepts

This company makes adaptive bicycles to suit a variety of needs for those with disabilities. Such disabilities include: Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, Angelman Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and visual impairment. Bikes can then be readjusted and further modified for a custom fit to the rider. This company has been around since 1991, and has continued to include a variety of health care professionals including physical and occupational therapists in designing and fitting these adaptive bicycles. As far as the act of riding a bike, there are extreme therapeutic benefits while engaging in a fun occupation. And, for many of these individuals, riding a bike may have seemed like an impossible feat before. However, this company has made into a fully achievable reality for these individuals. With the obvious strengthening, proprioceptive, and postural benefits, adaptive bicycling will continue to be a huge consideration for clients, especially pediatric clients, when taking into account those IADLs that are focused around meaningful leisure and play occupations.

A set of food-related tools to help people who have difficulties eating food and drinking so they can rejoin the social aspects of both.

This set of tools could prove to be revolutionary in the world of OT. Designed by a young lady with a desire to provide a meaningful eating experience for those who may otherwise despise eating routines, these tools aim to enhance the ADL of eating through varying stimulation. The tools each have their own sensory stimulation because of both the way that the flavor is transmitted (i.e. properties of the medium the food is transmitted) and the unique makeup of the head of the tool. The tools provide the following actions: dip, tingle, vapor, ice, pinch, sponge, foam, roll, and mist. For example, the “roll” tool allows one to roll the flavor onto the tongue and lips, providing a massage while simultaneously putting the flavors directly onto the taste buds. The “mist” tool, when squeezed, will spray a mist into the mouth, providing a unique sensory experience and offering a different way to experience a flavor. Just like these two tools, each tool offers an extremely unique sensory and flavor experience to those individuals who are unable to ingest typical solid food. The targeted consumers presented in this article are those who have had to transition to tube feeding or have complications that lead to difficulties eating, whether because of ALS, dementia, terminal illnesses, neurological disease, cancer or children who have troubles with eating food (i.e. SPD). I think that we can look forward to these tools being implemented more and more into practice. We are all about providing a meaningful experience to our clients, and these tools accomplish that and much more.

#taste

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