This post will introduce Assitive Tachnology (AT), what these are and how much they cost to get for the department you may be working for. What is Assistive Technology??? Cook and Hussy (1995) define assistive technology as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities" (Cook & Hussy, 1995, p.5). My understanding of this definition is that assistive technology is anything that enables and enhances a person’s ability to perform necessary and meaningful occupations. I will now introduce a piece of equipment I learnt about in the assistive technology presentation. During this presentation I found the assistive switches very interesting because of the verity of applications you could use them for. The prices range depending on there capabilities the cheapest and simplest switch is the Jelly Bean prised at $70 and the most dearest switch being the Jelly Beamer SLAT twist switch at $430. These switches can be used with any pre adapted toy or appliance and depending on the capabilities of the switch, it can allow the user to have three different modes of control over the toy or appliance. This device was introduced to us with the example of being used with children who have limited strength, ROM and mobility. With the use of this device they are able to play with electric toys or remote controlled toys like anyone else is able to, with a switch of a button. Because this device has the capacity to be attached to any pre adapted electric deviece, it means that most people’s capabilities can be allowed for. Here are some you tube clips that shows the switch beinging used.
References Cook, A., & Hussey, S. (1995). Assitive Technologies (pp. 4-44). Missouri, AL: Mosby.
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