Tutorial Seven: Assistive technology

1) Provide a definition of Assistive technology (your Cook and Hussey reading may be helpful with this).
Assistive technology refers to devices, services, strategies and practices that are created and used in order to reduce problems that people with disabilities have to deal with.

2) Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial. Provide information on size, cost and functions.
Wobble switch (attached to flexible switch/goose neck). This is is a switch designed for any individual who has difficulty with fine motor skills, limited hand movement or motor control. The wobble switch has a wand that can be activated by pressing against it in any direction.
It costs about $300 and is relatively small, however is large enough to use for people who have less control. Easy to attach to most surfaces that it would be useful for.

3) How does your chosen piece of equipment increased functional capacity for the user? Provide examples here from the tutorial and lecture.
It would increase function because it give the user control in some aspects (e.g. Switching radio on and off) where they may otherwise have very little control due to lack of motor skills. This also helps clients participate in occupations they may not otherwise have been able to participate in which will help make life easier or more meaningful.