More than 15 million people worldwide are living with a spinal cord injury (SCI), according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Assistive devices are needed to help people begin their rehabilitation journey and path to regaining their independence.
This article will explore what assistive technology is, how it’s used by people with SCI and how it can enhance their mobility. We will also share how Aspire Law will support you throughout your recovery journey, specifically in relation to access to assistive technology.
What is assistive technology?
According to the UK Government, assistive devices refer to the products or systems that serve to support people with disabilities, restricted mobility or other impairments to perform day-to-day functions.
New developments in this technology aim to continue to improve or maintain a person’s quality of life, through assisting their daily rituals and helping them to regain their independence.
Access to assistive devices that enhance an individual’s mobility and motor capability is truly invaluable for their path back to independence and improving their overall well-being.
Assistive technology examples
There are many different assistive devices available for those with a spinal cord injury.
The most common for this type of disability would be practical technology like wheelchairs, walking sticks, shower chairs, crutches, alarms and pill organisers. Digital solutions are also available to assist people with SCI, including support for interpersonal communication, as well as rehabilitation education and training.
There are also adaptations to one’s home available. For example, portable ramps and rails can be installed to assist with an individual’s mobility.
Facilitating rehabilitation
Assistive devices are a brilliant solution to enable people with spinal cord injuries to adjust to their new normal and begin to regain their motor functions.
These products can help individuals in all aspects of their lives, especially in fields such as education, employment, leisure and fitness, and daily activities, including self-care and cooking.
Assistive devices are life-changing, transforming the world where people with disabilities live. Whilst opening up the world around individuals with SCI, assistive technology can also reduce the strain on healthcare providers by diminishing the risk of secondary complications such as pressure sores and contractures.
How does assistive technology help?
Assistive devices improve the functioning of an individual’s communication, mobility, cognition, and self-care, enhancing their health and well-being and rehabilitation to daily activities and participation in social interaction.
Seamless integration of these products is crucial for people with spinal cord injuries.
As stated by the WHO, “most people who use assistive technology use more than one product”. Consequently, these devices need to work in harmony with each other, coming together to give a person the best quality of life possible.
Aspire’s ‘Assistive Technology Programme’
In 2006, Aspire began a programme of assistive computer technology assessments and training at Spinal Injury Centres across the UK to help those with SCI. Implementing a range of devices and software packages, the Aspire Assistive Technology Programme uses the most up-to-date technology to ensure patients can use any device as quickly and as effectively as possible.
Aspire’s variety of equipment includes the use of head-controlled mice, voice recognition software and various other technologies, which all serve to enable access to laptops, tablets, computers, gaming controls and smartphones. This helps people with SCI to adjust to their new range of mobility more seamlessly.
New assistive technology devices for physical disabilities
Developments in software and apps are continuing to support access to information, personal communication, rehabilitation training and so much more.
Advancing technology is also showing promising signs to uplift the independence of individuals with SCI and improve their safety. Through health monitoring technologies and robotics, the WHO sees a safer, more secure future for those with disabilities.
Emerging technologies – robotics
The future is closer than you think.
Autonomous systems are a rapidly developing technology that will allow people to gain more independence over everyday life and access to rehabilitation.
These robotics would ‘live’ with a person with SCI and assist in all aspects of daily activities, such as dressing, toileting, retrieving items, eating and interpersonal interactions. This integration of solving multiple needs for an individual with spinal cord injury is life-changing as it allows people to move through their lives more seamlessly.
Excitingly, it’s already being used! In Japan, 80-year-old Kimiko shares her story with the WHO about her communication robot. Designed to remind her when to take their medication, it is also made to be social, interacting with Kimiko as if they were a member of the family.
The future
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) have reported developments that will impact the future of assistive technology. These include:
- Robotics
- Artificial intelligence
- Human-computer interfaces
- Sensor technologies
- Advances in computing and connectivity
- Additive manufacturing and new materials
Technology is constantly evolving to enhance the lives of those who need it. We’re keenly anticipating what the future might hold for people with spinal cord injuries.
Advice with Aspire Law
At Aspire Law, our main aim is to secure a compensation package for you. This award will pay for your care and rehabilitation costs, loss of earnings as well as compensation for any pain and suffering, enabling you to maintain an independent and fulfilling life. Contact us today to find out more about the ways in which we can help you.
