OT + AT = LUV @davidthesloth-blog - Tumblr Blog

justineeckhoff-deactivated20171

This website lays out the path that assistive technology (AT) practitioners (and occupational therapists) take when conducting an evaluation. What I like about this website is that it is easy to read and uses a more simplistic language that relays the goals of an evaluation without dismissing the essence and uniqueness AT evaluations for the importance of functioning in one’s daily life. For future use, I think this would be a good website to use when explaining evaluation to clients, especially if the client has any hesitations or concerns about AT and finding the right device. As an added bonus, the HAAT model is discussed and visually depicted as the model of choice for proper AT selection!

davidthesloth-blog

I agree; I thought the layout of this site was concise and simple to follow. It provides insight and steps on what to do, which can surely be helpful in the vast world of assistive technology. What is additionally helpful is at the end, a link is provided which breaks down even more information, including AT services.

It turns out special education isn't just for special education students.

Unit 4:

I found this article through Reddit, where it describes a school district advocating the use of assistive technology in their classrooms. They abide by a “universal design” method, which incorporates AT in order to benefit every student. The school wants to provide AT and/or allow it in a classroom setting, in ways that benefit the student. They understand that every student is different, and so technology can be specific to their needs. Within the article, there are specific quotes and examples of positive reactions to how AT has helped.

Unit 4:

This document highlights the various possibilities for funding AT. As we know, assistive technology can be costly, and thus an individual might not be able to receive something that can be heavily useful for their function. This webpage details various addresses and names of organizations and foundations for loans, advocacy, and funding methods (Medicaid, Social Security, private insurance, VA, voc rehab, etc). Additionally, they discuss laws that individuals can read to grasp the concept of AT in numerous settings, and breakdown assistive technology for different age groups. It’s a concise document that might help lead one in the path for understanding how they can be provided AT.

lindseyschweppe

Novi-based ITC Holdings is working with Paralyzed Veterans of America to get the wheelchairs to veterans and groups.

While following Zite, I came across this awesome organization. It helps allow Veterans who are paralyzed still participate in occupations such as fishing and hunting. If these are occupations these individuals enjoy then it can potentially help their quality of life. As occupational therapists we can help to advocate for programs to help Veterans like this one!

davidthesloth-blog

See, these are the stories I love to hear - people helping people. Seems like a simple thing, yeah? Well...that’s not always the case. I feel like sometimes people become too insulated in their life and not worry about others. Organizations such as this are needed and we should advocate for more like them. Veterans especially are not taken care of as much we’d hope, so it is imperative that others at least step up in any way possible.

Shared from Pinterest

Unit 3

The concept of this is quite simple - apps compatible for those with low vision. You will see commonly used apps listed here such as Kindle, Evernote, Dropbox, and more. The idea here is to make others aware that features such as Zoom and VoiceOver are compatible with such apps. Also, most of these apps have built-in settings that allow one’s iDevice accessible. Actual low-vision apps are listed as well. Blogs and posts such as this can be beneficial for those who need a concise and simple guide for information regarding these concerns. (Shared from Pinterest)

Unit 3

As the article points out, this kind of device seemed more suitable in sci-fi (such as in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” where LeVar Burton’s Geordi La Forge wore a visor to see); however, the reality of such technology seems more likely. eSight Eyewear has designed these glasses for individuals with as little as 10% vision by using “two high-resolution cameras on the front, image preprocessing through a small computer strapped to the user’s belt, and a stereoscopic image projected with HD screens in front of each eye” (quoted directly from article). Additionally, the user can zoom the image and adjust contrast & brightness, and software updates are applied through an SD card. The company was created by an investor who wanted to help his sisters with a form of macular degeneration. So, specialists in photonics and engineering were able to capture this lightweight technology. Unfortunately, this device costs roughly $15,000, and no medical assistance covers eSight; however, sites such as GoFundMe are places individuals may turn to for support. For example, the article discusses a user named Derek who used GoFundMe (w/ eSite’s help) to receive his pair. With the glasses, Derek can’t do activities such as drive a car, but is now able to read, watch his sons play, and view PowerPoint presentations at work. Simply, it has improved function in meaningful occupations, as he states that his children are very dear to him and now he can enjoy new activities with them. He doesn’t wear them all the time, because it eliminates peripheral vision (which he has adapted to using his whole life); the device seems to enhance central vision only. Still, these glasses can improve function and ability, thus providing new opportunities to those with low vision.

Also, a minute-long video is within this article that shows an example of what a user will see.

#esight

jbyrnes2ot-blog

A team from Georgia Tech, led by Post Doctorate Fellow Mario Romero (School of Interactive Computing) has designed BrailleTouch for touchscreen mobile device...

Unit 2

When I watched the video, my first thought was, wow- an alternative to an alternative! BraileTouch is much like a corded keyboard, that uses combinations of touches for letters. It seems that it requires high cognitive functioning in order to elicit the letter you meant to based on the combination f touches. The screen shot above shows the 1′s (touch) and 0′s (no touch) pattern for each letter. This concept of braille on a touch screen was new to me. The braille I know is mainly based on tactile input. My knowledge of Braille is limited, but I wonder if the combinations of touches for each letter correlates to the patterns of raised bumps in traditional Braille.

This app enables the visually impaired to use a touch screen by giving the user auditory feedback as to what letters they have pushed to aid their awareness in what letters/words/sentences they have formed in real time. He made a good point about this app being a potentially cheaper and more long term solution. Adding it to a smartphone your client already has is much less expensive than purchasing a Braille keyboard or a corded keyboard separately. Not to mention it takes up less space. Based on this video, I assume that the user handles the phone and types, while the smartphone is connected to say a desktop computer on a word program where the output shows up.

davidthesloth-blog

I have always wondered about Braille on a phone and when it would show up, so good find (and this was from 2012, I had no idea!) The concept seems impossible, but from what I see here it looks quite functional. As you said, it does look like it’ll take higher cognitive skill and dedication. I assume that this is for typing Braille only? I watched the video, but I don’t think he mentioned reading Braille and if the app allows one to do so. I just wonder if one uses this to text or type an email and when another responds, does it translate to Braille? Regardless, this is just another example of the extensive uses that technology can offer us.

cbaumbach1

This vertical mouse not only helps to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, but may also be useful for those with physical impairments. There are a few different features to this mouse, including the thumb rest, adjustable optical sensor, pointer speed indicator, thumb buttons, and pinky rest. Limited range of motion users would definitely benefit from this type of mouse, but those with tremors may also find this setup easier to utilize if it is paired with arm supports. While this specific brand is a little pricy, ringing in at $90, there are similar products between $15-$25 that may be more affordable.

jbyrnes2ot-blog

Thanks for posting this Cassie! My brother in law has been complaining of carpal tunnel-like symptoms, but he can’t slow down because he is working on his thesis, has 3 children under age 2, and lives on a farm. Among other suggestions, I’ll tell him about this ergonomic mouse because he currently uses a laptop touch pad.

davidthesloth-blog

Good find, I always like seeing ergonomically designed objects; however, the price tag will probably steer people away. Personally, I wouldn’t buy one that much (although this seems like a specifically-designed mouse, so I understand the cost), but I like that you brought up that there are cheaper products. I see ergonomics like flossing teeth - many know that it is good for you, but when it comes to action we fall short. I can speak to this, as I use a trackpad frequently. At home I use a mouse, but on-the-go I never bring one. I think proper advocacy for objects such as this is low, and so I think it would be great to get more word out there!

annagumbyot

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.

cbaumbach1

This sounds so cool! My favorite part about it is that it is free. A couple of people have brought up the fact that we talk about all of these different types of technology available to our clients, but we rarely talk about cheaper options, or what we do if money is the reason someone does not have the AT they need. This is a great step towards helping those individuals who do not have monetary resources in receiving the technology they need.

davidthesloth-blog

Anna, I actually was going to post this too! I watched the video and read the creator’s site. The interface of OptiKey is simple, concise, and it looks easier to learn than other software. I respect this individual for what he did. Many of us cannot afford $300-500 software, and the fact that something is free does not make it inferior. Julius’s motive is solely out of helping others, rather than making a profit. I would want to show clients the cheapest alternatives, and OptiKey would surely be one to test out. I also love that he provides cheaper eye-tracking suggestions, and other ways for use if one chooses to opt out of purchasing an eye-tracker.

The latest assistive technology for visually impaired uses Intel RealSense technology to bring better awareness to people with low or no vision.

Unit 2

This article describes Intel’s new technology of a vest for visually impaired individuals, which will allow them a better sense of their reality. The technology, called RealSense, uses a camera with sensors that will alert the person of any nearby objects. The sensors are placed around various parts of the body in order to properly trigger the correct location on the body where an object is near. Vibration will intensify in regards to how far the object is, and can “see” objects a few yards away. The article also has an attached video of a keynote with one of Intel’s employees (who is visually impaired) using the vest. He described that he won’t miss certain stimuli that he normally would, and can engage in direct conversation fully. Although this article is from earlier this year, I found a recent article (9/21/15) from the same website that details using this same technology for gaming reasons. The Intel research team who invented the vest believe that haptic feedback can be used to give a gamer with visual disabilities the ability to engage in such modern-day extensive games. Many graphics are heavily detailed that emulate the real world. This research team believes that such RealSense technology can be incorporated within modern games to give individuals a sense of the game and fully engage in it. Obviously, Intel is trying new innovative ways and a vest as such can offer many benefits. This invention can provide individuals opportunity to limit any boundaries in life that stall or inhibit them from meaningful occupations. (shared from Zite).

The growing use of computer-based assessments is opening the door for all students to tap into accommodations once reserved primarily for students with disabilities.

Unit 2

This article discussed the recurring idea we’ve discussed in class about schools using technology, and especially with testing. Here, they advocate the use of computers and various software/tools that enable better function of the learning process. There is detail of a few districts in the US that engage in online testing, and not just for individuals with disabilities, but now for all students. They simply want to accommodate the student for their personal needs, regardless if they have an IEP or not. Zoom features, text-to-speech, screen color alteration, electric pencils/highlighters, and more are readily available. One district’s assistive technology specialist stated that word-prediction software is the most common AT used - all for various reasons. For those with learning disabilities, it will provide and say aloud the word, thus helping conceptualize an idea. For typical students, the software provides faster efficiency in writing extensive papers. Technology such as this in a classroom is still not prominent in many schools throughout; however, it is positive to see advocacy and awareness of such benefits it may offer.

Unit 2

For many people, auto-play ads are an annoyance; they might play sound, video, or simply flash some pointless ad. Flash-enabled ads have become in the news as of late, where major browsers such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Safari allow individuals to block flashing ads. They might be irritating to one, but for various individuals with disabilities, they can inhibit internet browsing. For example, someone with epilepsy might be at risk of seizure from a flickering image. Those with learning disabilities might lose attention, and those that use text-to-speech might experience difficulty as the ads can interfere with the software. With this, ad-blocking software has become crucial for many to engage in proper internet use. Ads can bring one to another website without warning, and that can cause frustration. The concept might seem simple, but it is bigger than many realize.

Unit 2

Hadeel Ayoub is a designer and media artist that wanted to discover a way that allowed individuals with hearing disabilities to effectively communicate with those with those who could hear. Ayoub says her motto is “to design with a cause,” and this idea stemmed from witnessing her niece with autism who signs to communicate. After working on it for a year, she developed this glove that converts sign language into text and speech. While wearing the glove, a person can sign as they normally do, where either text or speech will come up through another’s smart phone or tablet. Additionally, Ayoub wants the glove to be multilingual. The glove reads the sign language using five flex sensors on the fingers that detects the user’s signing, and also keeps track of their signing techniques. The device is still in a prototype-stage, as this is a very recent story; however, Ayoub wants her glove to be provided to individuals with hearing disabilities for free. Something like this would be extremely beneficial, and bridge a gap between communication. (from Zite)

Unit 2

The GrizPaw’s function is within the title; it’s a one-handed gaming controller. Essentially, this was designed for those with one hand/arm or any disability/injury that leaves one without bilateral hand function. A unique and important feature of this is that it can be used for either the left or right hand. There are 14 buttons and 2 thumb joysticks. The site describes this device as “10x faster than a joystick, 5x faster than a standard controller, and 2x faster than a keyboard & mouse.” Still, actual evidence of such claims are not available. It is imaginable that this controller will take patience and dedication to get used to, as this is not a controller that one grips and holds. It’s comparable to a keyboard. Weighing in at 1.5lbs, this controller does not move, which is uncommon for gaming controllers. Regardless, the joystick allows for some familiar movement and the controller seems reasonable for anyone with hand limitation. The controller is described as ergonomically designed, thus to limit carpal tunnel and any pain within the wrist/hand. On computer format it is PC only, but can be used with all game consoles going back to PS2/Xbox. For some consoles, an adapter is required. The guide on the provided image above details the button guide with all console types. The universal capabilities over multiple platforms allows for all types of gamers. It would be interesting to actually play with this to see if it can actually be used as a successful alternative to standard controllers.

girlkeven-blog

How to make an adapted grip for a crayon - OT Cafe

http://abbypediatricot.blogspot.com/2012/02/how-to-make-adapted-crayon.html

This OT created an adapted crayon grip for a child based on a Y-pencil she already had in her OT toolbag; she used clay that molded to the child’s “funky” grip. The child she made this grip for has CP and is in preschool, and she states in the blog post that she does not typically use AT when working with children this young, using rehabilitative techniques for increased fine motor skills and control as her first avenue of intervention, but found it appropriate to do with this child. She also stated that the reason she made a custom grip is because the crayon was more age-appropriate and the Y-pencil she had was a little too large for the child to use effectively. I found this post to be a great example of an OT meeting a specific client’s needs in the moment, or at least this period of time, and using an appropriate low-tech tool to enable function.

davidthesloth-blog

I really enjoy hearing about stories like this, because of the spontaneity of it. The student with CP was the one who noticed the Y-pencil, thus the clay-molded grip was created. Like Keven said, the OT stated that she didn’t normally use AT; however, it came up and became acceptable for the child. This is very client-centered and has occupational therapy written all over it (pun intended). As we’ve learned, OT engages in re-evaluation frequently; here, the child noticed the device so the OT re-evaluated her plan to fulfill this AT device for the child. Simply stating, she normally works on fine motor skills by other means, but this solution came up and with nifty OT skills a new solution surfaced.

I follow the occupational therapy page (called a subreddit) on Reddit and stumbled upon this. The National Center for Telehealth & Technology has used the 3D virtual world game, Second Life, to create a learning experience that informs and educates individuals of PTSD, which has increased heavily among soldiers from the war in the Middle East. Second Life is a free-form platform game where individuals are able to basically create a unique world of endless possibilities and interact with other real-life players. Here, they’ve used the game for educational purposes. Visitors create random avatars (allowing for secure privacy) to simulate acts of combat that can stimulate PTSD, which they then return to a “home world” to see what can be seen as a “trigger” for PTSD. The visitor/gamer progresses as they can seek help (with information of actual organizations) and care. They even hope to create in-game therapy. This tool is designed anyone who suspects to have PTSD, or others wanting to learn more of the disorder. Like virtual reality or the Wii, which could be intended for biomechanical purposes and among other things, this Second Life world is used for solely mental health. I find it quite interesting, especially with the extensive amount of work and dedication put into this. Also, it’s free to create an account!

Ted Talk

I’ve been following game designer & author, Jane McGonigal, for quite awhile now and was lucky enough to see her speak about 5 years ago. She is a major researcher/advocate on how and why video games can positively influence one’s life. We’ve continuously described the Nintendo Wii as intervention as occupation as means, and there is support in the positiveness that stems from such intervention - i.e. social participation, physical conditioning, dynamic balance, eye-hand coordination, etc. For many, the idea of gaming for therapy can be seen as skeptical or controversial, but I recommend this Ted Talk regardless if one plays games or not. She describes a personal story where she sustained a concussion which resulted in her being suicidal, while bedridden for months. Eventually she designed the online game/app, SuperBetter, to help individuals recover from illness/injury by increasing personal resilience. She received positive feedback from individuals with depression, cancer, chronic pain, and ALS. The game is customizable as you are allowed to design it to fit interests, along with engaging activities in the real world rather than just a cyber one. Personally, I’ve used games to alleviate stress and depression, as Jane did. Games like her SuperBetter might come off as subjective in regards to efficiency of reliable results, but personal accounts have described benefit from this type of technology. The main point from this is to introduce others to various realms of therapeutic exercise, as I can personally support this form. (found from OT subreddit I follow)

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OT + AT = LUV