by Assistive technology refers to any item, piece of equipment, software program or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Assistive technology promotes greater independence by enabling people to perform tasks that they were once unable to accomplish, or had great difficulty accomplishing, by providing enhancements to or changing methods of interacting with the technology needed to carry out human activities.
Mobility and Movement Assistive Devices
There are many assistive devices that help those with limited mobility or movement abilities. Power wheelchairs and manual wheelchairs provide independent mobility for individuals with mobility impairments or disabilities that make walking difficult or impossible. Other devices like walkers, canes and crutches can assist with Balance or walking. For those with limited hand or arm functionality, assisted living products like mechanized lift chairs make getting in and out of chairs much easier at home. Advances are also being made in bionic and exoskeleton technologies that could one day restore independent movement.
Communication Assistive Technologies
For individuals with communication disabilities, there are various Assistive Technologies that facilitate interaction. Speech generating devices allow non-verbal users to “speak” by using message displays, synthesized speech or partners’ cell phones. Devices like tablets, keyboards and switches help those with physical impairments to type or select letters and words. AAC or augmentative and alternative communication systems provide individuals without speech a “voice” through symbol or text displays. Wireless technologies also link devices to enable emailing and texting. Cochlear implants and Hearing aids greatly enhance communication abilities for those with hearing loss.
Sensory Assistive Devices
For people with visual impairments, there are various assistive technologies that help compensate for lost or reduced vision. Screen magnifiers, screen readers and speech output enlarge computer displays and read content aloud. Braille embossers and displays translate text into tactile Braille. Magnifiers and closed circuit TVs enhance vision for reading, hobbies and more. Guide dogs or long white canes are mobility assists. Text to speech and auditory signal technologies support independence for those who are both visually and hearing impaired. Adaptive computer accessories support ergonomic positioning.
Educational and Learning Supports
In the classroom, it support students’ individual learning needs and styles. Text to speech, audio books and adaptive software provide auditory learning supports. Learning software offer visual supports through symbols, pictures and interactive activities. Tools like pencil grips, speech to text, laptops and alternative keyboards facilitate creation of written work. Raised line drawings, tactile graphics and specialized apps enrich hands-on learning for visual impairments. Tablet apps, switch accessible toys and adapted books help special needs learners learn at their own pace. IEPs and personalized supports help each student thrive.
Computer Access Assistive Devices
The computer, and now mobile devices, have become ubiquitous productivity and recreation tools. For someone with disabilities that affect computer use there are many assistive technologies that provide access. Screen readers like JAWS turn text on sites and documents into synthesized speech. Alternative keyboards, switches, eye gaze systems and on-screen keyboards allow control without using standard keyboard and mouse. Speech recognition software translates voice commands into text and commands. Accessibility options in operating systems support needed adaptations. Screen magnifiers and text to speech unlock digital worlds.
Home Automation and Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology helps provide independent living supports for older adults and people dealing with aging or disabilities. Automated lighting, door locks, thermostats and appliances are accessible through wall panels, remote controls or mobile apps that enable intuitive operation. Fall detection and medical alert systems provide safety monitoring. Video doorbells allow visitors to be seen and heard from anywhere in the home or world. Services exist to easily install, monitor and service these home automation systems making independent living at home a reality for many.
Changing Lives and Expanding Potential with Assistive Technology
it have made huge advances in recent decades and have helped many overcome barriers to productivity and independence. Devices and software support maximum mobility, clear communication, enriched learning, computer access, smart home control and more. As technologies continue to merge with mobility, artificial intelligence and Internet of Things capabilities, assistive solutions will become even more intuitive and powerful. Exciting bionics, prosthetics, brain-computer interface technologies on the horizon provide glimpses into a future with far fewer limitations for those with disabilities. Technology’s role as an “ASSIST” for thousands with various needs promises more empowered, full lives ahead.
*Note:
1.Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2.We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Money Singh
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. LinkedIn Profile
