Computer Adaptations for People with Parkinson’s Disease

 

According to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, Parkinson’s Is second only to Alzheimer's as the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease in the United States. A diagnosis of Parkinson’s can lead to frustrating experiences while typing or using a computer mouse. There are, however, some adaptations and accessibility settings that can make these tasks much easier. These same accommodations can benefit those with tremors and diseases such as MS.

Keyboard Control

A common symptom of Parkinson’s is uncontrollable tremors. This results in extra keystrokes and difficulty with mouse control. In Windows, turning the Bounce Key function on will help to control the number of keystrokes made  when keys are pressed. This can be accomplished on Windows 7 or later by:

• simultaneously clicking the ‘Windows logo Key’ + ‘U’ to reach the Ease of Access Center. (Or search ‘Ease of Access’ in the search bar.)
• Selecting “Make the keyboard easier to use” under Explore All Settings.
• Then selecting Turn Filter Keys on and choosing the options that you feel will best assist you with keyboard input.

Additional PC accessibility functions can be found here.

For Mac users, go to the accessibility settings to enable similar features such as Slow Keys. Find more details here and check out software that steadies the mouse and locks it onto targets, such as SteadyMouse.

Individuals with Parkinson’s may benefit from a keyboard with larger keys. Keyboards like the BigBlu Kinderboard Large Key Keyboard and the VisionBoard Large Key Wireless Keyboard have large 1” keys that make typing easier.

Both Mac and PC users can use their voice to navigate around their computer and type, too.

Mouse Control

Mouse use can also be challenging for individuals with tremors. Using a large trackball mouse such as the Bigtrack Ball Mouse and adjusting mouse speed in your computer's settings can make mouse use much easier. Another option is to use Mouse Keys (again, a setting on your computer). This allows the cursor to be moved using the up and down arrows on the keyboard. And for individuals that choose to use mouse or mouse key input, consider using your computer's On Screen Keyboard instead of an actual keyboard. Additionally, try the free demo of Steady Mouse software to steady your mouse movements.

Individuals that have difficulty with mouse clicks can use a mouse with larger buttons, like the Bigtrack Ball Mouse shown below. It is available in a wireless version, too. Or they can use dwell click software that automatically clicks if the cursor is held in a location for a preset amount of time. Check out Dwell Clicker 2 for Windows or Dwell Click for Mac for this functionality.

For more information about Adaptive Computer Mouse and Adaptive Technology Solutions visit Adaptive Tech Solutions.

 

Alternative Communication Devices

Communication devices are also referred to in the field as AAC, SGD, augmentative communication, alternative communication. People also call them voice boxes, Talking Boxes, voice machines, voice buttons, talking buttons, speech devices. Regardless of what you call them, they are devices that help people with poor speech or no speech communicate their wants and needs.

GoTalk Fit

An easy-to-use 4 or 9 message voice output device. Activate the easy on/off switch and begin to record messages on each of 3 levels for a total of 12 or 27 messages in this small handheld device. Each level is designated by a different color LED and while switching modes occurs by holding in the Record Mode and listening for the auditory single beep to indicate the 4 message mode or two beeps to indicate 9 message mode. A powerful communication device that's hand-held for quick access. The plastic cover makes it perfect to toss into a purse, bag, or pocket without the buttons accidentally being pressed.

iTalk4

Activate the colored top to play the desired message. New messages are easily and quickly recorded to the iTalk4 on the fly, or use the levels to pre-record up to three sets of messages ahead of time. Includes 4 clear snap covers to attach picture symbols.

GoTalk 32 Stand

It's machined from expanded vinyl, so it's lightweight and durable. Includes non-skid rubber feet to prevent unintentional movement. Ideal for direct select or scanning users. Folds flat for easy transport or storage.

Vinyl Picture Pockets

High-quality clear vinyl pocket with re-positionable and reusable adhesive backing. These are a heavy 8-gauge (8 mil) clear material on the front with a 6-gauge adhesive back to reduce wrinkling and curling.

Attainment Talker

The AT24 has 24 messages with (¾-inch) active message areas. Touch each active area to play back recordings. To increase the active area size and decrease the number of messages, simply record the same message in multiple areas. By grouping 4 message squares together and recording the same message on all 4 areas, you can create 6 larger active areas. Then place a larger picture over each of the grouped 4 message squares.

For more details about Augmentative Communication Devices Please visit our website: https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/

Switch Adapted Toys For special Children

Our switch adapted toys are adapted to allow individuals with physical disabilities the opportunity to play and learn as independently as possible. With the use of a switch, a person with disabilities can be an active participant in fun, meaningful accessible activities. Our adapted toys and switches are interchangeable and compatible with most toys and switches sold by other companies. Our goal is to provide affordable switch Adapted Toys  that teach social skills, cause & effect, language, and sensory awareness through playing and interacting with the environmet

• Pitching Machine

This pitching machine  is the perfect way for people with limited hand use to play ball with a pet or a friend, or to play lawn or target games.  It has been adapted to accept a standard 3.5mm switch (sold separately). It also will work without a switch. When using a switch, the user will need to hold down their switch for about 11 seconds for the pitch to occur. Continuing to hold their switch after this first pitch will result in additional pitches about every 7 seconds until their switch is released or all the balls are used. A flashing red indicator light shows when the ball pitches, making it easy to prepare for the oncoming ball. Has three different adjustment angles. Includes 6 aero strike balls that are 2 3/4"  in diamater

• Dance and Play Elmo & Tango

Press your switch or Press Elmo’s foot for Elmo & Tango to dance together & play. Each character takes turns and then play together (what a great way to demonstrate how friends take turns, how they play together...). They sing three different songs. Press your switch or Elmo's foot to start the duo. Press again to stop. Absolutely adorable. You have to look at the video!

•  Minnie Roadster RC Car

You'll have so much fun with this Minnie Roadster Remote Controlled car. This toy has been adapted for use with one or two 3.5mm switches, sold separately (use 2 switches for full control of the toy), or it can be activated with the built in buttons on the remote. Press and hold one switch to go straight. Press and hold your other switch to turn. A fun way to work on visual tracking! Requires 3 AA and 2 AAA alkaline batteries, not included. Runs best on smooth surfaces. Both this toy and the Mickey version run on the same frequency, so they cannot be used in the same proximity. SMALL PARTS: Not recommended for children under the age of 3.

• Boppin Beaver

Boppin' Beaver Linkimal has bright lights and 25+ songs, sounds and phrases teach shapes, counting and colors  while stimulating visual and auditory senses. He has been switch adapted to accept a standard 3.5mm switch (sold separately). Press and release your switch (or push the beaver's head) to start the action. Press it again to move forward to the next activity.  Uses 3 AAA batteries (included). Measuring just 6" tall x 4" wide, this toy is a great portable take along! Recommended age 9 months +.

Explore More Switch Adapted Toys For special Children Please visit us:

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Assistive Technology and Cerebral Palsy

 Cerebral Palsy, the most common motor disorder, can make it difficult for people to interact with their environment. Through the use of assistive technology, such as  switches and switch adapted toys/devices, people with Cerebral Palsy can independently interact with their environment. Switches are buttons, levers, or sensors that can be activated with any part of the body. Switches vary in how much pressure is required to activate them. So, a person with very limited motor movements might do better with a Micro Switch, whereas a person with big, less controlled motor movements would do best with a large durable switch such as the Big Red Switch. Also, the body part being used to press the switch needs to be selected based on movements that are the most accurate, controlled, and consistent.

Individuals with Cerebral Palsy also often have speech disorders. For individuals with a significant speech impairment, they may not be easily understood by others. Through the use of communication devices (sometimes called talking boxes or talking buttons), people with speech impairments can communicate with others. There are a wide variety of communication devices ranging from single message output devices such as the Talk About!, to more advanced devices with multiple messages/topic pages such as the SuperTalker, and high tech devices such as those offered by companies that specialize in speech generating devices, such as Tobii Dynavox and PRC. Some individuals who aren't quite ready for these devices might benefit from a low tech system such as the Talk n Tote Board, a portable communication board that can have pictures and objects attached. 

Adaptive Tech Solutions, a therapist owned company, offers a wide variety of switches and switch adapted toys/devices to promote independence in people with disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy.

Adaptive Switches & Accessories

 

Beam

Beam allows a HeadMouse™ Nano user to actuate the left, right and middle mouse buttons using adaptive switches without a direct connection to the HeadMouse. When used with a Swifty™ Beam sends up to three button events that Swifty interprets as mouse buttons, joystick buttons or keyboard keys based on Swifty configuration.

Cable Kit

The Cable Kit is a popular accessory for Swifty, Tapio, and HeadMouse users.

The stereo-to-mono adapter allows two single switches with mono plugs to be connected to Swifty, Tapio, HeadMouse, or other 3.5mm, switch adapted device. Not all splitters will work for this purpose. The splitter must go from 3.5mm stereo to 3.5mm mono output.  The adapter may also be used with third party switch adapted devices.

Plate Switch

This low profile plate switch is perfect for users who are unable to lift their hand or finger to activate a traditional accessibility switch. To use, slide the hand or foot over the activation surface and apply a few ounces of pressure to activate.

Switch It Up! switch

Our Switch It Up! switch for the disabled lets you control toys and other switch adapted Toys. Rubber feet assist in keeping the switch from sliding. Button surface area measures 2.75" across and requires approximately 9 oz. of pressure to activate and has slight clicking sound for feedback.  Standard 3.5 mm (1/8") plug and 6' cord. The bright colors makes it easy to find, especially for individuals with visual impairments. 

For More Information About Adaptive Switches & Accessories Visit Our Website: https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/

Computer Adaptations for People with Parkinson’s Disease

As per the National Parkinson's Foundation, Parkinson's Is second just to Alzheimer's as the most predominant neurodegenerative illness in the United States. A finding of Parkinson's can prompt disappointing encounters while composing or utilizing a PC mouse. There are, notwithstanding, a few variations and openness settings that can make these errands a lot more straightforward. These equivalent facilities can help those with quakes and infections like MS.

Console Control

A typical side effect of Parkinson's is wild quakes. This outcome in additional keystrokes and trouble with mouse control. In Windows, turning the Bounce Key capability on will assist with controlling the number of keystrokes made when keys are squeezed. This can be achieved on Windows 7 or later by:

• At the same time tapping the 'Windows logo Key' + 'U' to arrive at the Ease of Access Center. (Or on the other hand search 'Straightforward entry in the pursuit bar.)
  
  
  
• Choosing "Make the console more straightforward to use" under Explore All Settings.
• Then, at that point, choose Turn Filter Keys on and pick the choices that you feel will best help you with console input.

Extra PC openness capabilities can be seen here.

For Mac clients, go to the openness settings to empower comparative highlights like Slow Keys. Find more subtleties here and look at programming that steadies the mouse and locks it onto targets, like Steady Mouse.

People with Parkinson's might profit from a console with bigger keys. Consoles like the Big Blu Kinder board Large Key Keyboard and the Vision Board Large Key Wireless Keyboard have enormous 1" keys that make composing more straightforward.

Both Mac and PC clients can utilize their voice to explore around their PC and type, as well.

Mouse Control

Mouse use can likewise be trying for people with quakes. Utilizing a huge trackball mouse, for example, the Big track Ball Mouse, and changing mouse speed in your PC's settings can make mouse utilize a lot simpler. Another choice is to utilize Mouse Keys (once more, a setting on your PC). This permits the cursor to be moved to utilize the all-over bolts on the console. What's more, for people that decide to utilize mouse or mouse key information, think about utilizing your PC's On-Screen Keyboard rather than a real console. Furthermore, attempt the free demo of Steady Mouse programming to consistent your mouse developments.

People who experience issues with mouse snaps can utilize a mouse with bigger buttons, similar to the Big track Ball Mouse displayed underneath. It is accessible in a remote variant, as well. Or on the other hand, they can utilize stay click programming that consequently clicks assuming the cursor is held in an area for a preset measure of time. Look at Dwell Clicker 2 for Windows or Dwell Click for Mac for this usefulness.

For More Information About Adaptive Computer Mouse Visit Our Website: 

https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com

Basic Information About Communication Devices

 Communication devices come with two types of speech. One is digital, the other is recorded. Devices with digital speech should be in the user’s language and have a keyboard in the native alphabet. Messages are made by typing words/phrases (represented by a picture) that are then spoken by a digital voice in the chosen language. Most, but not all devices with digital speech in the US are going to be English, with some having the option of Spanish as well. Usually you cannot mix languages, meaning that if you choose Spanish as the language, you cannot have some messages delivered digitally in Spanish and some in English. They will all be delivered in Spanish or all in English. Many devices with digital speech do have the option of recording someone’s voice to represent some of the messages on the device. Devices with digital voice output usually have digital pictures, so you do not have to cut out paper pictures for each message. Devices with digital speech will be in whatever languages are offered by the device manufacturer and these voices will be in both genders. There are usually various voices to represent kids, juveniles, and adults with varying types of accents. These devices are generally a more robust, but more costly option.

Devices with recorded speech require the person who programs it to record their voice message for each picture. The pictures that represent the messages are printed on paper and are made by the caregiver/person programming the device. There are software programs to help make the pictures onto a sheet (the sheet is called an overlay). Some of these software packages are free, while others must be purchased. The software that can be used often is offered by the company that makes the communication device. So, for instance, we carry AbleNet products such as the BIGmack, QuickTalker, TalkingBrix, etc. AbleNet offers a free program to make overlays for their devices using your own photos. Attainment offers a paid version of their software to make overlays for their devices, such as the GoTalk. Their software contains the pictures already, so you don’t have to supply your own. Using this type of software is very helpful and less time consuming than trying to find pictures on your own that are the right size for the device. Devices with recorded speech will be in whatever language the programmer chooses since it is recorded. The voice gender will depend on who talks into the device while it is being programmed. Generally, the programmer should try to find someone of the same general age and gender to record the messages on the device. So, if you are programming a device for an older male, it’s best to use someone who is an older male to record the messages. Whereas if the user is a female child, you would want to find another female child to record the messages.

The devices carried by Adaptive Tech Solutions have recorded speech. So, you have the flexibility of having whomever you choose record their voice to make the messages. These devices are available from one single message, such as the Talk About! Communicator, to the SuperTalker Progressive Communication Device which has 108 messages. Communication devices accommodate a larger number of pictures (also known as “icons”) that represent the messages by having various numbers of levels. A level is like a page in a book. Each page has its own messages on it and these messages may be grouped by topic. So, generally, each level will pertain to a different topic. So, level or “page” one might have vocabulary about general wants/needs/social, another level might be mealtime related, another level might be telephone related vocabulary (to be used with a phone that has a speaker), etc. 

For more details about Special Needs Toys, Please visit the website here: https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/.