Tutorial Eight

Tutorial Eight: Assistive Technology

“Assistive Technology: technological inventions (devices) designed to enable active engagement or participation on occupations through energy conservation, accommodation for diverse physical abilities, or compensation for functional limitations or disability” (Christensen & Townsend, 2010, p. 417). Assistive technology is the name given to an item or device which improves a person’s functional and abilities.

This week we were fortunate to have Trev from Star Mobility Hamilton come and speak to us and he brought with him some amazing pieces of assistive technology for us to play with and ask questions about.

One piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial was a talking photo album. They come in a variety of sizes but the most common sizes are A3-A4, cost ranging from between $80-$120 depending on size.

This device increases the occupational engagement for the user by providing them with instruction or description for what the photo in the album is about. These are ideal for people with memory loss or blindness.

Talking Photo Albums with 200 minutes of recording time and unique SD Card Memory. Bring your memories back to life by adding a new dimension to your photographs. Ad voice, music and sound effects.

They make them for the kiddies too!

Here is a local NZ website with more information and specifications:

http://www.sitech.co.nz/product_details/c/343/p/205

Christiansen, C.H. & Townsend, E. A. (2010). Introduction to occupation: The art and science of living      (2^nd ed.). New Jersey: Pearson.