Erin Seils |
In recent years, some spectacular pieces of technology have been developed to allow people that currently live with the burden of a disability to have a much better quality of life than those that have come before them. The invention of equipment such as prosthetic limbs have made it possible for people who would never have been able to stand up, certainly not walk, to not only be able to move independently but also to be able to take part in international sporting events such as the Paralympics.
Technology does not only improve the lives of those with physical disabilities but can also be an amazing tool for people with learning difficulties and mental health problems.
Assistive technology, for those with learning difficulties, is widely available. This could be something as simple as a graphic organiser, with multiple printable designs that can help people to organise their thoughts, when writing an essay for example. Or, it could be a more high-tech device like an FM (Frequency Modulation) Listening System that can quieten background noise and amplify the teacher’s voice.
Visual reality software such as headgear like the Oculus Rift, initially praised for its revolutionary gaming experience, can be used to treat cases of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This method of treatment, known as “Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy” is a life-changing therapy for veterans. Dr Albert Rizzo, a research scientist at the University of California’s Institute for Creative Technologies began to work on a program called “Virtual Iraq” in 2005 which has since been used in several military medical centres and Veterans Affairs clinics throughout America.
However, although it can be a fantastic aid in assisting those with disabilities, technology that many people use every day, such as mobile phones and computers, can be quite a struggle for people with a disability to deal with. Apple is one of few companies whose products come with features to make accessibility less of an issue for disabled users.
“iOS is an incredibly accessible mobile operating system. Innovative features like VoiceOver, AssistiveTouch and Guided Access help students with special needs enjoy more of what iPhone, iPad and iPod touch have to offer.” – www.apple.com
Adapt-IT is a company that sells computers for people with disabilities. The company are happy to help and advise their customers on even the most complicated problems and can tailor equipment for each individual’s needs.
“Whether you have mobility problems, arthritis, visual impairment, learning difficulties or if you are temporarily disabled through injury, we will find a solution for you. And finding the right solution, as many of our testimonials attest, can not only improve your quality of life but can even change your life.” -Adapt-IT
A neuroscientist at Oxford University has even developed “Smart Glasses” which can help blind people see! According to the World Health Organisation, there around 39 million people who suffer from blindness. But 90% of these people can see to a certain extent, even if this is only a slight awareness of light.
The glasses make the difference between light and dark objects much more prominent. When wearing the glasses, the nearest object is white while the background is black and other objects in close proximity appear in varying tones of grey, depending on how near they are.
In conclusion, thanks to technology, people with disabilities can have a considerably better quality of life. It is not only those with physical disabilities whose lives have been improved but also those with mental health issues, as well as those with learning difficulties.
