Tutorial eight

Provide a definition of Assistive technology:

Assistive technology refers to a broad range of devices, services, strategies and practices that are conceived and applied to ameliorate the problems faced by people with disabilities.

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


Describe one piece of equipment introduced to he assistive technology tutorial. Provide information on size, cost and functions.

Blink switch. This is attached to a pair of glasses, when the wearer of these glasses blinks, this action activates the device to turn another object on or off.
This is a compact device which fits to a pair of normal sized glasses and has a small control box which is used to increase and decrease sensitivity of the blink action according to the user.
The cost of this item is $1,000.00

How does your chosen piece of equipment increased functional capacity for the user?

This assistive device is a significant tool which enables a person to have some control over the environment in which they are in. It enables people who are non-verbal and who have extreme limitations in movement to make their own choices and can improve communication significantly for the client.