Assistive Technology Assessment Handbook

Assistive Technology Assessment Handbook, Second Edition, proposes an international ideal model for the assistive technology assessment process, outlining how this model can be applied in practice to re-conceptualize the phases of an assistive technology delivery system according to the biopsychosocial model of disability. The model provides reference guidelines for evidence-based practice, guiding both public and private centers that wish to compare, evaluate, and improve their ability to match a person with the correct technology model. This second edition also offers a contribution to the Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology (GATE) initiative, whose activities are strongly focused on the assistive products service delivery model. Organized into three parts, the handbook: gives readers a toolkit for performing assessments; describes the roles of the assessment team members, among them the new profession of psychotechnologist; and reviews technologies for rehabilitation and independent living, including brain–computer interfaces, exoskeletons, and technologies for music therapy. Edited by Stefano Federici and Marcia J. Scherer, this cross-cultural handbook includes contributions from leading experts across five continents, offering a framework for future practice and research.

The process of matching a person who has a disability with the most appropriate assistive technology requires a series of assessments, typically administered by multidisciplinary teams at specialized centers for technical aid. Assistive Technology Assessment Handbook fills the need for a reference that helps assistive technology experts perform assessments that more effectively connect the person and the technology. Emphasizing the well-being of the individual with a disability, the book proposes an ideal model of the assistive technology assessment process and outlines how this model can be applied in practice internationally. Organized into three parts, the handbook: Gives readers a toolkit for performing assessments Describes the roles of the assessment team members, among them the new profession of the psychotechnologist, who is skilled in understanding individuals and their psychosocial and technological needs and preferences Reviews cutting-edge technologies for rehabilitation and independent living, including brain–computer interfaces and microswitches The book synthesizes information scattered throughout the international literature, focusing on aspects that are particularly representative or innovative. It also addresses the challenges posed by the variety of health and social care systems and the different ways that individuals who need aid are defined—are they users, patients, clients, or consumers, and how does that affect the assessment? Edited by Stefano Federici and Marcia J. Scherer, internationally renowned leaders in the field of assistive technology assessment, this cross-cultural handbook includes contributions from leading experts across five continents. Guiding readers in matching the person and the appropriate assistive technology, it offers a framework for future practice and research. Listen to Stefano Federici talk about the handbook.

Assistive technology for cognition is technology which can be used to enable, enhance, or extend cognitive function. This book systematically examines how cutting-edge digital technologies can assist the cognitive function of people with cognitive impairments, with the potential to revolutionize rehabilitation. Technologies are reviewed which direct attention, remind, recognize, prompt, and generally guide people through activities of daily living. Written by experts in neuropsychology and technology development, Assistive Technology for Cognition provides a comprehensive overview of the efficacy of technologies to assist people with brain impairments. Based on the list provided by the International Classification of Function, each chapter covers a different cognitive function; namely, attention, memory, affect, perception, executive function, language, numeracy, sequencing, and navigation onto which existing and future assistive technologies for cognition are mapped. This structure provides in-depth research in an accessible way, and will allow practitioners to move from an assessment of cognitive deficits to the prescription of an appropriate assistive technology for cognition. The chapters also make suggestions for future developments. Assistive Technology for Cognition will be of great interest to clinicians and researchers working in brain injury rehabilitation, technology developers, and also to students in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and allied health disciplines.

Electronic Assistive Technology (EAT) is a subset of a wider range of products and services known as Assistive Technology (AT). AT is designed to support and enable people with disabilities, either acquired or congenital, to participate in activities with greater independence and safety. With a global aging population, it has an important role to play in enabling and supporting those with disability and their carers. Handbook of Electronic Assistive Technology discusses a range of commonly available or emerging electronic assistive technologies. It provides historical background, advice when assessing for these devices and references different models of provision. It includes both medical and engineering aspects of provision. It is anticipated that the book will support students, trainees, and newly qualified Assistive Technology Practitioners to develop their understanding of the field, by considering the variables that could potentially influence the decision-making process when assessing for and providing this equipment. It also provides a reference point for those already practicing in this field and offers coverage of a broader range of technologies than clinicians may be exposed to, in their daily work This is the first reference book to focus on a comprehensive set of electronic assistive technologies and discuss their clinical application.

People with neurological disorders may experience significant problems, isolation, detachment, and passivity while dealing with environmental requests. They constantly rely on caregivers and family assistance, which can create negative outcomes on their quality of life. An emerging way to overcome these issues is assistive technology-based interventions (AT). AT-based programs are designed to fill the gap between human/individual capacities or skills and environmental requests. These technologies can also bring about independence and self-determination and provide people with neurological disorders an active role, positive participation, and an enhanced status in being able to achieve functional daily activities by reducing the roles of their families and caregivers. The positive impacts of this technology are an important area of research, and its usage for neurological disorders is critical for the assessment and recovery of patients. Assistive Technologies for Assessment and Recovery of Neurological Impairments explores the use of AT-based programs for promoting independence and self-determination of individuals with neurological disorders. The chapters discuss AT-based interventions in detail with the specific technologies that are being used, the positive effects on patients, and evidence-based practices. This book also focuses on specific technologies such as virtual reality (VR) setups and augmented reality (AR) as valid ecological environments for patients that ensure methodological control and behavioral tracking for both assessment and rehabilitation purposes. This book is essential for occupational therapists, speech therapists, physiotherapists, neurologists, caregivers, psychologists, practitioners, medical professionals, medical technologists, IT consultants, academicians, and students interested in assistive technology interventions for people with neurological impairments.

The primary focus of this book is to educate the reader on the Matching Person and Technology (MPT) model and assessment process that will guide the reader on consumer-centered assistive technology assessment and outcome measures designed to be used for individuals of all ages and all types of disabilities. The first section of the book introduces the MPT and Matching Assistive Technology and CHild (MATCH) assessment process and discusses key documents that align with the assessments including the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health and the Occupational Therapy Framework III. The second section of the book focuses on the international emphasis of the MPT and MATCH assessments. At present, there are eight countries that are represented in this section. Each chapter includes information on the assessment translations (with access to copies if available or at least access on how to obtain copies). The authors discuss research on the use of the assessment within their country to support the assessment use. Lastly, a case scenario is discussed in each chapter to provide the reader with an example of how the assessment was used with an actual consumer. The last section of the book includes a focus on outcome studies in the areas of early childhood, education (primary secondary, and postsecondary), work, and functional independence. This section provides the reader insight into how to outline outcome measures within the MPT and MATCH process. There is an additional section on future works that includes a brief introduction to the Service Animal Adaptive Intervention Assessment. This book is targeted to the Assistive Technology Providers (ATP) and policymakers (health care, education, and rehabilitation engineering), the university student pursuing a career in these areas, and the consumer of assistive technology.

Succinct, yet comprehensive, Assistive Technology is designed to help educators better understand assistive technology and how it can support students with disabilities from early childhood through transition into adulthood. This practical book considers the purpose of technology and the support it can provide rather than a student’s disability categorization. Grounded in research and filled with engaging case studies and activities, author Emily C. Bouck offers an unbiased depiction of the advantages and limitations of technology. Readers are exposed to a full range of assistive technology including up-to-date coverage of low- and high-technology, as well as free and for-purchase options that can be used to support students with disabilities.

It's here: the latest edition of the one text you need to master assistive strategies, make confident clinical decisions, and help improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. Based on the Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) model, Assistive Technologies: Principles and Practice, 4th Edition provides detailed coverage of the broad range of devices, services, and practices that comprise assistive technology, and focuses on the relationship between the human user and the assisted activity within specific contexts. Updated and expanded, this new edition features coverage of new ethical issues, more explicit applications of the HAAT model, and a variety of global issues highlighting technology applications and service delivery in developing countries. Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) framework demonstrates assistive technology within common, everyday contexts for more relevant application. Focus on clinical application guides you in applying concepts to real-world situations. Review questions and chapter summaries in each chapter help you assess your understanding and identify areas where more study is needed. Content on the impact of AT on children and the role of AT in play and education for children with disabilities demonstrates how AT can be used for early intervention and to enhance development. Coverage of changing AT needs throughout the lifespan emphasizes how AT fits into people's lives and contributes to their full participation in society. Principles and practice of assistive technology provides the foundation for effective decision-making. NEW! Global issues content broadens the focus of application beyond North America to include technology applications and service delivery in developing countries. NEW! Ethical issues and occupational justice content exposes you to vital information as you start interacting with clients. NEW! More case studies added throughout the text foster an understanding of how assistive technologies are used and how they function. NEW! Updated content reflects current technology and helps keep you current. NEW! Explicit applications of the HAAT model in each of the chapters on specific technologies and more emphasis on the interactions among the elements make content even easier to understand.