Tutorial seven: Assistive technology

What is assisitive technology?

Assistive technology is commonly used in Occupational therapy.Asssitive technology is as stated by Cook & Hussey (2000)" a broad range of devices, services, strategies and practices that are conceived and applied to ameliorate the problems faced by individuals who have disabilities"(p.5). They are in simpler words devices used to make life easier for those with disabilities.

One example of an assistive device is the "buddy button". It is a switch that is activated by being touched anywhere on the top of its surface. It is made for individuals with disabilities that prevent them from being able to competently use their hands and/or arms. The "Buddy buttons" come in different colours and cost about $90. They are 6.3cm in diameter and 1.8cm in height and the "buddy buttons" target all age ranges.

How does this piece of equipment increase functional capacity for the user?

This piece of technology helps people interact with their environment and access the world around them by allowing even those with severe disabilities the chance to join in activities like cooking and baking by operating the machines with a simple push of this switch. Some disabled individuals cannot grasp small items like a spatula or do not have the capabilities to stir a mixture of dough, this switch however provides them with the capability to mix dough and be involved by using the switch to operate the machines.

Assistive Technologies: Principles and Practice : Cook, A.M., & Hussey, S.M. (2000). Assistive technologies: principles and practice. St Louis: Mosby