Jumbo Switch

This Youtube clip demonstrates how a Jelly Bean switch can be used and also shows some of the new features

Tutorial Eight: Assistive technology

Tutorial Eight: This tutorial is based on a class we had where we were introduced to differnt assistive devices

Definition Assistive Technology Assistive or Adaptive Technology commonly refers to "...products, devices or equipment, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that are used to maintain, increase or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."  (Gerard, 2001) Or “Assistive technology refers to a broad range of devices, services, strategies and practices that are conceived and applied to ameliorate the problems faced by individuals who have disabilities.” (Cook & Hussey, 2000) Cook, Definition in my own words. Technology that has the ability to improve or increase an individual’s functional abilities.

Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial.  Jelly bean switch Jelly bean switches come in a variety of different shapes and sizes; they have different names and are for different needs. I will list three jelly bean switches that are available. Specs Switch (36mm diameter) Jelly Bean Switch (64mm diameter) Big Switch (127mm diameter) (Danger) The cost of these devices vary mostly depending on the size You can buy a Jelly Bean with cords, and four colour choices for $100.00 plus $15.00 postage on the spectronics New Zealand website http://www.spectronics.co.nz/product/jelly-bean-twist The Jelly Bean switch opperates as a switch for someone with limited hand/upper limb function, they provide tactile and audible feedback. Jelly bean switches increase occupational capacity by allowing people who do not have the muscular strength, control, use or co-ordination for example to turn on any switch, too click a mouse, to turn on a blender, to type, to play computer games and any other reason you would need a switch. If the client previously couldn’t turn on their radio this device will allow the client to do the things we often take for granted. In the Youtube clip below this post you will see how A jellyBean switch works. ;-) Wii – Wii-hab – Wiihabilitation Personally I have found the use of Wii consoles in particular the one which includes the balance board to be of significant interest. I personally love playing video games so a video game with a purpose sounds truly amazing. I was fortunate enough to use a Wii as a therapy when I was on my longitudinal placement in a brain injury rehabilitation centre, so I know firsthand the impact this console had on these clients. I also appreciated the difficulty in which the game was for many of the clients, this however did not put them off. A memorable moment was watching two of the clients have a canoe race and hearing the laughter and enjoyment mixed with puffs and exhaustion made me realize that if for nothing else the exercise that these clients were experiences surpassed a leisurely walk around the block. I am aware that walking in fresh air is very therapeutic and a great source of energy, but couldn’t help but be encouraged by the amount of fun these clients were having and the sense of achievement they all received. This is a great link to a great website dedicated to Wii-hab http://www.wii-hab.com/index.html There are multitudes of YouTube clips with clients using Wii as therapy for all different reasons. See the bottom of my page for live streaming YouTube clips around Wii-hab

References

Danger, C. (n.d.). ablenet jelly bean switch. Retrieved may 8, 2011, from better living through technology: http://www.bltt.org/hardware/switches/jellybean.htm

Gerard, D. (2001, December 17). What is assistive technology. Retrieved May 6, 2011, from rehabtool: http://www.rehabtool.com/forum/discussions/1.html

A.M. & Hussey, S.M. (2000). Assistive technologies: principles and practice. Mosby: California.

Jelly Bean image http://www.spectronics.co.nz/product/jelly-bean-twist

Tutorial Seven: Linking to blogs of interest and exchanging comments

LINK TO 5 BLOGS I used a blog list application through gadgets to create a feed to blogs of interest. The list is on the right hand side of this page, I made links/feeds to blogs of interest and also to fellow class members blogs

Post comments on chosen blogs related to a point of interest of a related question. Follow hyper link to see comment on your therapy source blog http://yourtherapysource.blogspot.com/2011/05/exercise-and-cystic-fibrosis.html#comment-form The comment I left of the occupational therapy notes blog won’t be visible until the blog owner allows the comment however I commented on the post about a letter sent to ‘Nintendo asking if they received feedback from the letter as I felt the suggestions were great. Here is the link to a fellow students blog where I made a comment http://lucyotkelly.blogspot.com/2011/03/paediatrics-occupational-therapy-this.html#comments Provide a record of at least one communication you have as a result of your blog postings Follow this link to see a communication I have had as a result of my blog posting: http://lucyotkelly.blogspot.com/2011/03/paediatrics-occupational-therapy-this.html?showComment=1301522558544#c3045054553883194819 this was through linking with a fellow student.