Description
This manual provides an overview of what assistive technology (AT) is, its role and its implication for both the individual user and society. It helps the reader 1) know enough about ageing and disability to appreciate the importance of AT, 2) know the main forms of AT and appreciate the wide range of products, devices and applications, 3) recognise that the current situation regarding availability and take-up of AT for those who need it is often very unsatisfactory, 4) understand the crucial role and responsibility of all branches of the health and social services, and all of their respective caring personnel, in remedying this situation and 5) know the main elements of the role of ATI (assistive technology intermediary) that many health care professionals can and should play. This manual is the introductory module of the IMPACT courseware – a resource learning set to enable students and practitioners within social and health care to be aware of the role they can play in ensuring that older and disabled people have access to assistive technology that can improve their quality of life.
Subject (according to the ISO classification of assistive products)
- Assistive products for measuring, stimulating or training physiological and psychological functions (ISO 04)
- Orthoses and prostheses (ISO 06)
- Assistive products for self-care activities and participation in self-care (ISO 09)
- Assistive products for activities and participation relating to personal mobility and transportation (ISO 12)
- Assistive products for domestic activities and participation in domestic life (ISO 15)
- Furnishings, fixtures and other assistive products for supporting activities in indoor and outdoor human-made environments (ISO 18)
- Assistive products for communication and information management (ISO 22)
- Assistive products for controlling, carrying, moving and handling objects and devices (ISO 24)
- Assistive products for controlling, adapting or measuring elements of physical environments (ISO 27)
- Assistive products for recreation and leisure (ISO 30)
