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For people who lose their sight as adults, learning Braille can sometimes feel like a defeat or a sacrifice. Newly-blind adults – particularly those who ...

Unit 4

I found this while scrolling through Pinterest! It is a Braille reader that a user just slides right across the page. It can read as you go but also repeat the entire sentence when done. The Braille points on the paper enter through the touch pad on the roller. It also has a Bluetooth earpiece option so it is not speaking out loud and disturbing others. I think this could be an excellent tool for Braille reading. I would be interested to see how it works exactly and how hard/easy it is to roll across the page and keep on the line you wish for it to read. Something new and definitely interesting!

katielovesot

This sounds like a great device! I love the verbal feedback and how there is more than one option of it reading it back to you. I think that repeating the entire sentence when done is a very useful feature that individuals will love. The Bluetooth earpiece option allows individuals to engage in different contexts. Amy thank you for sharing this new and interesting device!

Guiding Principles for AT Planning and Service Delivery

Unit 4

This website breaks down the guiding principles for AT planning and service delivery. According to this website, there are 9 principles starting with the primary goal of AT which is to enhance the capabilities and remove the barriers of performance. These principles are important to keep in mind as future Occupational Therapists because they truly encompass the purpose and usefulness of AT. Sharing these guiding principles with other members of the interdisciplinary team may increase understanding and encourage execution of these principles.

Unit 4

The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) offers a webinar continuing education session on improving AT service delivery in schools. This session exposes participants to the Quality Indicators of Assistive Technology which is a tool that analyzes the AT service in your district in aims to improve those services. You can register online. As future OT and current OT students, continuing education programs are important so that we can stay up to date with technology and the best means of practice. There are also other interesting links on the left side of the page that one could investigate if desired.

katielovesot

Unit 3: Alternative Access Mobile Device

The Self-initiated Prone Progressive Crawler or SIPPC is a mobility device for infants with neuromuscular disorders that promotes developmentally appropriate movement. Infants with neuromuscular disorders often have lack of coordination and strengthen which makes crawling a challenging obstacle in exploring the environment. Infants who cannot explore and interact with the environment can have delay in cognitive development. Exploring one’s environment is often encouraged through play activities by occupational therapist to promote the development of basic skills and learn. The SIPPC enhances movement in order to allow infants to explore their environment. The SIPPC has three different modes for operation depending on the ability of the infant who might use it. The mobility mode detects any motion in any direction and continues in that motion for three seconds which is intended to motivate the infant to make that motion in the future. The force mode detects the infant’s shift in weight which determines which direction the SIPPC moves. The sensor mode has sensors mounted on a suit that the infant wears that detect movement of the arms and legs to determine the direction of movement of the SIPPC. The SIPPC can be used to explore the environment and encourage movements through positive feedback of the device. Overall, I believe that this is a great mobility device that will encourage mobility at a young age.

katielovesot

Unit 3

katiewecke

This $200 alternative to a power wheelchair could get thousands of physically impaired kids mobile

Go Baby Go! is a program from the University of Delaware that modifies toy cars to provide mobility for children with disabilities. Each car only costs around $200, compared to other extremely expensive mobility devices. The website also posts videos and manuals for free describing how to build them, so parents and caregivers can do it themselves. Not only are these devices helping the children with their mobility, it is also allowing them to play and socialize with other children their age regardless if they have a disability or not. This is an awesome program!

katielovesot

This sounds like a great program that provides low cost, FUN, mobility devices for kids. As future occupational therapists, it is great to have knowledge on these types of programs and also knowledge on the adaptations that were made to the product so that we can adapt similar products to help kiddos in the future. Mobility of individuals allows for exploration of their environment which is essential to learning, socializing, and leisure activities. Great program!

The Ogo is a hands-free electric wheelchair rebuilt from a Segway by Kevin Halsall. It can reach a top speed of 20km per hour. The Ogo is based on Segway technology that allows the user to move intuitively by leaning in the desired direction and it allows for hands-free movement. Being a hands- free device allows the individual to perform tasks while moving, play sports, and engage in other desired occupations. Occupational therapists work to promote function. The Ogo allows for a high level of function due to its hands-free component. The Ogo requires core strength to maintain balance which will promote and encourage strong core muscles in the individual using this device. The wheels of this device can be changed to provide an off-road experience on different terrains. It is a battery powered device that has the capability of being steered manually if necessary. The Ogo is a new device that holds a bright future!

As we all know, the iPad is an amazing device with built in accessibility features. This article discusses the accessibility of the iPad. It discusses its scanning ability and gives resources to access more blogs and articles discussing similar accessibility features. The first video embedded in this article discusses apps that are helpful to individuals with low vision. Examples of these apps include Magnifier which can be used in the grocery store to read labels, Mapquest which gives directions verbally, Moneyreader which scans the bill and tells what amount the bill is, quick recording which can be used to record quick notes or reminders, and VoCal which is a calendar with reminders. I believe that these apps could be very beneficial to individuals with low vision. The next video embedded in this article discusses the iPad accessibility features such as the 3 finger double tap for magnification, voice over, zoom, larger text, contrast, and triple click home. This is a very helpful video because you can watch the steps needed to change the settings to use these features. This article also provides several links to other accessibility options and app ideas which would be very beneficial to iPad users and future occupational therapists.

8 Best Trackball Mice 2015

This is a short clip that shows the eight best trackball mice of 2015. The trackball mice that are included in this video include the Kensington orbit, Kensington Slimblade, Obic-shop Mini, Elecom M-XT1DRBK, Logitech trackman, Sanwa MA-TB39S, Logitech M570, and the Kensington Expert K64325. This video explains the features of each of the mice and mentions useful criticisms of each of the mice as well. This is a great source to get an exposure to the products that are out there and could be a great starting point for an individual or a therapist looking for an alternative mouse because of the variety that it presents.

eheise1

Infogrip's BIGtrack trackball being used by an individual with ALS with their feet. One of many ways the BIGtrack helps users maintain their independence.

This shows the Bigtrack trackball being used by a man with ALS. Instead of using it with his hand like we did in class, he uses his feet to control it. He also has been using a system called eye max that is similar to eye gaze to prepare for whenever he is unable to use his feet to control the trackball. It is a great way to show the different devices and the different ways to use them.

rachelkoby-blog

Unit 2

Although alternative devices are generally made with a specific use in mind, this video shows that AT devices can be used in multiple ways. Because this individual no longer had use of his hands, his feet guided the Bigtrack trackball. I think other people could use their alternative mouses in similar ways if only their feet were functional. This reminded me of how people without arms become more competent with their feet as their primary tools.

katielovesot

Communication is important to maintain quality of life. This video is a great representation of the independence an individual acquires by using a communication device. This individual is truing inspiring in his fight against ALS. He maintains a positive attitude and goals for the future. This individual continues to talk to his family using a computer program and a Bigtrack trackball to navigate the system. Since ALS is a progressive disease, the individual is preparing for the loss of more motor movements and is learning an eye gaze communication system called eye max. This video shows the importance of assistive communication devices to the individual and their loved ones. Thanks for sharing Elizabeth, I love seeing devices that we have talked about being used and valued by individuals.

spollock21me

Boomer the foot mouse is the first wireless fully-functional hands-free computer mouse. Pre-order today (50% off). Bluetooth for PC, Mac, & Tablets.

This Boomer foot mouse is a wireless device that works on all computers or tablets. It still has all the functions of a traditional mouse without having to use any hands at all. This would be a great product for someone who has no use of their upper extremity or if it is very weak which doesn’t allow for coordinated movements. This could especially be helpful with people who have experienced amputations of both of their upper extremities. Introducing this new way to navigate a computer will require a lot of training and practice to get the correct movements down especially since it is not the traditional way of operating a computer.

katielovesot

Thanks for sharing Sarah! The Boomer looks like a great alternative mouse for individuals with upper extremity impairments. I love the Bluetooth feature of this device. I am curious to know how much strength is required to push the pedals or how sensitive the pedals are. I completely agree that this product may require a significant amount of training and practice to master. I think this product could be extremely beneficial for future occupational therapists to remember when encountering individuals who would benefit from using this device.

marissabonney

Infogrip provides assistive technology solutions, alternative keyboards and mice, and assistive technology products for the disabled and low vision. We also provide many office, computer, and network services.

Infogrip a great website if you are looking to locate or compare alternative access and computers! This website provides everything from alternative keyboards to switch interphases to PC computers. After choosing from one of the broad categories such as Software, Mice, or Keyboards, you are directed to a selection of products that match that description. Once you have located what you are looking for, there is a detailed description along with reviews and comparison features. Because of technological advances, it’s hard to keep up with the new AT devices and alternative access products. This website can benefit therapists because it provides a reliable source for quality products.

dawod123

This is a great way to compare and explore the large amount of AT devices that are available. When a client is asking us for our expertise about AT deices, we have to be familiar with all the options out there and which ones are most compatible for them. This is a great resource to use utilize in our practice.

eheise1

Thanks for sharing Marissa! This is a great resource to have for future practice when we are suggesting AT. It has short descriptions that allow us to determine if it is appropriate to use and also provides a way for us to purchase it.

spollock21me

This is a great website for comparing types of assistive technology. I found this website to be very helpful when finding devices for this post! It is very easy to navigate and helps compare devices with the easy layout and user reviews. This will be a good resource for us as occupational therapists one day when working with clients to find the perfect device for them! Thanks for sharing!

katielovesot

Infogrip is an easy to maneuver website that provides numerous assistive technology device options. As Marissa mentioned, this website does an excellent job of providing detailed descriptions and allows for comparison of the product. As future occupational therapist, having options to find the perfect fit for the client is important and highly valued to support a client centered approach. Infogrip continues to stay up-to-date with their products and offers quality products. This website is very beneficial to occupational therapist and others searching for assistive technology devices. Thanks Marissa!

Like something out of the Museum of Modern Arts this latest keyboard design by Minebea looks amazing. The Cool Leaf Touchscreen Keyboard ($250 USD) feature

Unit 2

The Cool Leaf Touchscreen Keyboard has a full 108 key layout with each key individually backlit. This keyboard is compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Mac OSX. The mirror-like, flat surface of this keyboard is sleek but does not provide tactile input. However, The Cool Leaf Touchscreen Keyboard has an adjustable beep sound when you press the desired key and the sensitivity can be adjusted as well. The beeping output is a great feature that gives appropriate feedback to individual while typing. The adjustability of the beeping is also a desirable quality allows the keyboard to fit the context in which it is being used. This keyboard is an alternative device that can help individuals use the technology that is in our world today.

Amazon.com: Laser Projection Virtual Keyboard: Computers & Accessories

Unit 2

The Laser Projection Virtual Keyboard by CTX uses laser technology to project a virtual keyboard onto any flat surface. This product connects to smartphones, laptops, or tablets wirelessly via Bluetooth. The keyboard is battery powered and its small size makes it easily portable. I believe that this would be a great product for individuals who are proficient in typing. The laser projection virtual keyboard has a great visual component for individuals with low vision; however, this keyboard does not have auditory or tactile output. This device would be extremely convenient for individuals with on-the-go life styles that need a small portable keyboard. The Laser Projection Virtual Keyboard comes in both red and green.

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.

Unit 3: Alternative Access Mobile Device

The Self-initiated Prone Progressive Crawler or SIPPC is a mobility device for infants with neuromuscular disorders that promotes developmentally appropriate movement. Infants with neuromuscular disorders often have lack of coordination and strengthen which makes crawling a challenging obstacle in exploring the environment. Infants who cannot explore and interact with the environment can have delay in cognitive development. Exploring one’s environment is often encouraged through play activities by occupational therapist to promote the development of basic skills and learn. The SIPPC enhances movement in order to allow infants to explore their environment. The SIPPC has three different modes for operation depending on the ability of the infant who might use it. The mobility mode detects any motion in any direction and continues in that motion for three seconds which is intended to motivate the infant to make that motion in the future. The force mode detects the infant’s shift in weight which determines which direction the SIPPC moves. The sensor mode has sensors mounted on a suit that the infant wears that detect movement of the arms and legs to determine the direction of movement of the SIPPC. The SIPPC can be used to explore the environment and encourage movements through positive feedback of the device. Overall, I believe that this is a great mobility device that will encourage mobility at a young age.

emmasotthings-blog

Caroline’s Cart provides shopping carts to grocery stores that have an adaptive seat in the front. This cart makes it much easier for parents who have a child that uses a wheelchair to shop alone, because they can put their child in the seat and shop without the wheelchair. This is a great organization and was recently able to provide a cart to a grocery store in St. Louis! Great way for parents to include their kids in the grocery shopping experience.

katielovesot

Thanks for sharing Emma! This is a great idea for families who like to shop together. This would also allow the individual with the disability to help make decisions on what to buy too. I would have to agree that using Caroline’s Cart to shop would be much easier than trying to push a shopping cart and a wheelchair through the store while trying to put things into the cart as well. It is great to see that adaptive devices are spreading throughout the St. Louis area. Hopefully, this will encourage the all stores to provide adaptive carts.

spollock21me

All the way back in 1829, Frenchman Louis Braille came up with a tactile system that was capable of letting those who suffered from vision impairment to “read” books using the tips of their fingers...

I have never seen or heard of this product before. It seems like an easy way for people who are blind to read braille. The gadget is small enough that it can be carried everywhere you travel and has very easy set up. Once it is put on the readers face, the camera picks up where the reader is pointing and says reads the words out loud. This is a cool product that could help a lot of people!

ahill1-blog

I think this is so awesome! It is really allowing those who are blind to be able to access the world so much easier! Like Sarah I haven’t seen or even knew something like this was possible. I love to see new things everyday that are just proving how much our technology is advancing. Seeing products like this get me even more excited to continue into the assistive technology world.

katielovesot

This is such a cool device! I believe that it would be very beneficial to individuals with vision impairments. I really like how portable it is too Sarah. The small size and portability of the gadget are great features! I am curious if they have different sized rings that fit big fingers. Very creative assistive technology device that helps individuals who are blind or have vision impairments read!

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