Assistive Technology

1. Assistive Technology DAILY LIVING SKILLS Mrs. Ruiz

2. Assistive Devices High Tech Low Tech Costly devices May require custom ordering May require specific training Ex. Augmentative communication devices Inexpensive Ex. Jar openers, shoehorn

3. Electronic Aids to Daily Living (EADLs) • Control units used for manipulating environment • Purpose • Maximize function and I in home, school, work and other environments. • Allow energy conservation during home management • Uses • Turn on/off lights, appliances, etc • Allow use of multiple devices • Consideration • Input method • Portability • Safety • Reliability • Operation ease • Affordability

4. Types of EADL • Phones • Large number pads, automatic dialing, speaker phones • Personal emergency response system (PERS) • Client can call for help by a push of a button • Computers • Provide alternative access modes. • Adaptations • Eye gaze for clients with severe mobility impairments ex. ALS • Programmable keyboards • Expanded keyboards • Contracted keyboards ex. For clients with limited ROM • Light touch keyboard • Delayed touch keyboard ex. Clients with poor motor control • Chorded keyboards: few keys for standard commands for one handed. Ex. Hemi

5. Evaluation • OTA collaborates with OTR • Identify tasks that a client wants to accomplish • Assess strengths and deficits • Stability/positioning • Identity anatomic site where client demonstrated purposeful controlled movements • Determine environment where the device will be used • Document recommended ATD/EADL selected and rationale for each item for reimbursement

6. Intervention Select and use several devices on a trial basis to determine which works best for the client Determine specific device after incorporating all the team members Keep devices as simple as possible Provide multiple training sessions Re-assess for change in status of the client Re-assess to determine the efficiency of use of device