Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology is integral to the practice of Occupational Therapy. I will provide definitions of Assistive Technology with comments and interpretation in my own words.


If you have a disability or injury, you may use a number of assistive devices. These are tools, products or types of equipment that help you perform tasks and activities. They may help you move around, see, communicate, eat, or get dressed. Some are high-tech tools, such as computers. Others are much simpler, like a "reacher" - a tool that helps you grab an object you can't reach.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/assistivedevices.html

This definition uses the term assistive devices which is inter changeable with assistive technology.

I like this definition because is comprehensive and uses simple language.

Assistive technology is any service or tool that helps the elderly or disabled do the activities they have always done but must now do differently. These tools are also sometimes called "adaptive devices."

 http://www.eldercare.gov/ELDERCARE.NET/Public/Resources/Factsheets/Assistive_Technology.aspx

This definition includes tools and services which is widens the scope of what is assistive technology considerably.

The reading supplied states that "assistive technology refers to a broad range of devices, services, strategies, and practices that are conceived ..."(Cook & Hussey, 1995, p. 45).

Cook, M. & Hussey, S. (1995). Assistive technologies: principles and practice.St Louis, Missouri: Mosby.


My finding of these definitions and the class provided reading have revealed to me how complex is this field. Here are a article about a different device that is an application that has been developed to assist deaf people. This type of assistive technology holds huge potential for the future and will be part of the revolution in assistive devices that will also hold promises for the wider population.

The final article is an informative homage to the ultimate assistive technology, the human hand.

This brings me to my chosen assistive device which is The Cripper. Is is a reacher or grabber for quadriplegics who have extension wrist function. It is specifically designed for C5-C7 quadriplegics. Here is a video of this tool in action.

No grip or finger movement necessary.
No straps - easy on/off
Choose between lightweight (will pick up 1.4kg) or heavy duty (will pick up 4.5kg) and short or long.
All Crippers weigh between 280g and 410g depending on length and whether it is lightweight or heavy duty.

Here are some photos from the manufacturer in the USA, the same website gives instructions for measuring for correct fit. The US price is $130 t0 $150, it is available in New Zealand for about $100 more.

I like this device because it give a provides big benefits for the price. It is very functional and gives the user more independence. It also can help overcome the occupational disruption caused by spinal cord injury.