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Wearable Technology Gives Hope for Disabled
Wearable Technology Gives Hope for Disabled
With all of today’s advances in emerging technologies, have you ever wondered: How else could we use this for a greater purpose? Luckily, a few folks from Electronics of the Future and Florida International University (FIU) had that exact thought. They decided it was time to make a difference and began working on new advances in both wearable and assistive technology. Together, they have developed a skin sensing vision system for the visually impaired and have completely changed the way we look at medical sensing technology.
The Who and the What
Before we dive into this new evolutionary technology, lets introduce the creators. Dr. Michael Shur with Electronics of the Future has teamed up with Shubhendu Bhardwaj, John Volakis and team with the Florida International University (FIU), to push the technology industry forward and change the lives of many. They are working on two new products, currently in their final stages before launch to the open market.
The technology consists of both wearable and assistive technology. Wearable Technology is currently one of the fastest growing areas of the technology industry. Many of us can recognize these types of tech from popular products including Apple Watches, Fit Bits, and more. Whereas, Assistive Technology might not be as well-known to most. It can be defined as any device or software that helps people work around the challenges faced from a disability. These types of technology range from screen readers to hearing aids and help users regain the independence they may have once had.
Skin Sensing Vision System
Whether someone is completely blind or visually impaired, completing everyday tasks can be a challenge. Even just walking down the street can be a treacherous feat. That is where Dr. Michael Shur got his inspiration for his new Skin Sensing Vision System technology. One day when picking his son up from school, he noticed a child with a walking cane. The boy was hitting the edge of the curb with the cane and Shur thought to himself, “there’s got to be a better way”. So, he got to work on a mission to find it.
The tech consists of a flexible electronic device that has direct input to the human skin. Through the use of a camera and image processing data base, the device can accurately detect an object and compute its distance from it. Through two skin patches, signals will be transmitted from the device to the user, acting as an artificial eye. All new users will first need to complete a training course to familiarize themselves with the system. But after training, users will be able to distinguish what object is in front of them and how far away it is. Whether it be a tree or a bench, the device will signal the object and its distance/direction from them to the user. The best part is the system is built right into everyday clothing, such as a t-shirt. Being unlike anything else available today, this technology has the potential to change the lives of the visually impaired community forever!
Wearable Medical Sensing Technology
For many, mobility can be a real issue. For the elderly, disabled, amputee, or infant, it is hard to constantly keep track of various bodily functions. Even through the advancements we have had in medical technology, when movement is a problem having to constantly go back and forth to your devices can be a pain. Fortunately, Bhardwaj, Volakis and team have developed and improved wearable medical sensing and imaging devices. From heartbeat to blood pressure, all a user has to do is link their tech with their phone and they have constant access to their current readings. Taking this one step further, the readings can also be linked to their doctor’s office. Allowing the doctor to keep track and alert the patient should something be out of line. Now you might be thinking, “how big of a device do I need to strap across my body to do this?” Not to worry though, similar to the vision system, this device is also built right into your every day clothing. But it gets better still! The team has also developed wireless charging pads that can go right over furniture. This means, you could be wirelessly charging your t-shirt device while sitting at your kitchen table for lunch. Now it may sound great but whats the catch? How much is this going to run me? Luckily, this type of technology is very inexpensive and would be as much as other wearable tech devices we already have. Items like wristband heartbeat sensors or standard hearing aids. Not to mention what the insurance company will be able to cover.
So, with cheap costs and nothing but strong benefits why not keep a look out for the release of these new devices and ask your medical professional if something like this could one day be right for you. In conclusion, these new advances spell hope for the future of the disabled community overall and can help millions live a more accessible and easy life.
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The Truth about Quadriplegics
The Truth about Quadriplegics
Quadriplegia, also known as Tetraplegia, is a type of paralysis that causes partial or full loss of use to the persons body and four limbs. Quadriplegia can be caused by a Spinal Cord Injury, or be a lasting effect of another illness. (Cerebral Palsy, Stroke, etc.) Simply put: Quadriplegics can’t move anything below the neck. A common question that comes up will always be: How does one find happiness through such hardship?
How Disabling is Quadriplegia?
When is comes to which Disability is the most “disabling”, Quadriplegia is high up on the list. In fact, not having control over most of your body is the clearest cut definition of a visible disability. (See our article on Invisible Disabilities) Caregivers are of utmost importance due to the lack of mobility. Interactions like getting out of bed in the morning, eating a meal, even going to the bathroom may give someone the sense of dependence. While it seems like you are living a completely different life, there are some things that are still available to the disabled. Due to the mouth being above the neck, speaking is still an ability Quadriplegics maintain. (varying from from person to person)
The ‘lesser’ diagnosis of Quadriplegia, where the person is only paralyzed below their hips, is known a Paraplegia. This gives people the use of their arms and torso, which luckily allows the person more independence in life. With the use of their upper body, Paraplegics are still able to drive a car, make food, use the bathroom, and overall live a mostly private life. There’s one thing every ‘-plegic’ has in common though.. those dang stairs!
Can Quadriplegics feel pain?
A common misconception people have about Quadriplegics is that they do not feel pain under the neck. While this may be true about the external stimuli, Quadriplegics can still feel the sensations internally in areas that do not respond to external pain. We advise anyone who feels these sensations to speak with their doctor as pain medication will be available for prescription.
Finding Happiness in Loss of Functionality.
This can be one of the hardest challenges being a Quadriplegic. (Depending on the person) Happiness and joy is one of the most sought after emotions for every living being. The struggle of ones challenges in life will always be that, a personal battle that one must overcome. Some things just come naturally to people, like the ability to find happiness in a dark situation. To others, they may have to search for a reason to keep waking up in the morning. Sometimes it is easier to just see happiness in action:
With so many different curve balls happening in ones life, you might just want to step back and think “I’m so lucky to be alive right now”. Nothing can prepare you for a life altering injury, or radical changes to your health. What you can do though, is stay positive through hard times, and find support in loved ones and health professionals. With the right willpower, anyone can go through anything, and come out a better person in the end.
« PreviousNext »Dreamscape Foundation: A Charity for the Disabled & Our Community
Dreamscape Foundation: A Charity for the Disabled & Our Community
Founded in 2013, The Dreamscape foundation was created when the founder, Joseph Sehwani was diagnosed with a rare disease at the age of sixteen that took away his vision. Since then, Joseph has created a vision of his own for people suffering from rare diseases. Providing individuals with scholarships, job aids, education accommodations, health aids and all amenities to help them succeed in life. This foundation focuses on supporting their future to provide equality.
Accessibility First
We know that living with a disability can negatively impact one’s chances of success in education and employment, but at Dreamscape Foundation, we believe that we have the power to do something to address this. While nothing can prepare us for an unanticipated disability, Dreamscape Foundation offers hope. Our non-profit provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities in their pursuit of education and life-fulfilling work.
Our mission is to aid the small population of people affected by sensory impairments to help them achieve success and to fund a cure. We encourage the community to embrace the use of accessible technology to ensure independence. In the past, Dreamscape Foundation had partnered with IT consulting company Intone Networks and accessibility software company User1st to build out our accessibility platform. The program is unique in that we are not aware of any other non-profit organizations who are committed to holding accessibility to such a high standard and provide similar services.
Dreamscape Foundation’s Mission
The commitment of Dreamscape comes from Joe Sehwani’s struggles and difficulties after he lost his vision in high school at sixteen. It is a privilege to work with a charity that works hard to ensure others struggling with similar disabilities are well taken care of and know that they are not alone.The prevalence of visual disabilities also stands to show the need for support for those who are blind or living with low vision. Across the world, 285 million people live with some type of visual impairment, with 39 million living with blindness and 246 million with low vision. In the United States, those with a visual disability account for about 2.2% of the total population.
Without accessibility, we do a disservice not just to the quality of life for those living with a disability – we also prevent them living to their fullest potential. Our charity can better justify program expenses that involve accessibility. This is illustrated clearly when we look at the number of working-age persons with disabilities in the United States who are employed. Right now, that number is only 35% – Dreamscape believes that with accessibility, that number can be much higher.
Helping our Community
Dreamscape partners with many other charities on both a local and national scale with many different missions. We support local charities by partnering with them on fundraisers, campaigns and events as well as support them with various product donations. At Dreamscape, we’re committed to addressing these issues and advocating for the changes needed to help those living with disabilities. Although living with a disability can be a struggle, we are here to assist and support.
« PreviousNext »Adjusting to Challenges of Being a Young Adult with Disabilities
Adjusting to Challenges of Being a Young Adult with Disabilities
The transition into adulthood can be quite different for everyone, but nevertheless, still challenging. Waking up and noticing changes to your own body is a difficult time for any child growing up. Now, on top of that, imagine making that same transition with a disability.
Facing the real world
For most of us high school is the time of our lives. We get to see our friends everyday, 3 months off during the year, and the only thing we have to worry about is homework and if our crush likes us back. Being a teenager, it is only natural to focus on the things that make you happy, but did anyone ever stop to think about the other types of kids in high school? The ones who struggled or had it more difficult than everyone else. Not many people think much about it, so don’t feel bad. Having a disability means a lot of things and while you’re in school you can receive special education tailored to the specific disability. This is really great… until you wonder what happens after they are no longer in the school system. The reality is, this special education doesn’t help them prepare for adulthood or living on their own after high school. After they exceed the age limit, which in most states is 22, a lot of people lose their support services. For example, the service could be their pediatric therapies are terminated.
What happens next?
After high school the average person will either go to college or go straight to working. Then, they will proceed on with their normal lives. But, For people with disabilities it’s not so simple. In 2014, a poll was taken of people 25 and older to determine the percentage of people with disabilities who have completed at least a bachelor’s degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics only 16.4% received a bachelor’s degree. After that, 25.5% received some college or an associate’s degree, 36.8% received a high school diploma and no college, and 21.3% received less than a high school education. These percentages are extremely low compared to the average person. This makes it more than difficult for these young adults to find jobs, or even live an independent lifestyle. Not to mention that on top of their daily struggles they go through the constant discrimination, dirty looks, and feeling as if they’re slowing the people around them down. Could you imagine what that life is even like?
A life of independence
You may now be wondering how someone with a disability could manage any sense of in-dependency. It’s not easy and sometimes, not possible. There are numerous reasons on top of being under-prepared by education on why it is incredibly difficult for someone to live on their own. These reasons could be that the family member or caregiver simply lacks the easily accessible comprehensive up-to-date resources, options and possibilities. Or, something that is out of their control would be that the funding is extremely scarce. It could also be something as simple as the person has spent too much time with their caregiver or family member. This is extremely typical because someone with a disability doesn’t have personal control of access to transportation or personal assistance. This also results in them having no experience in a social life, making it extremely difficult for someone to pursue a friendship or relationship. In spite of that, listed below are just a few options for a disabled person to begin living independently.
- Speak to your physician about local support groups
- Seek employment or volunteer opportunities
- Practice good health and nutrition/ remain active
- Join in on community activities
- Caring for a pet
We believe everyone can have an independent lifestyle. If you or a family member is struggling, remember no one is ever alone. The best thing to do first is contact your physician to see if they recommend any first steps to being independent. After that, give some of our tips a try!
« PreviousNext »VISIONS: Preparing the Blind Workforce for an Independent Life
VISIONS: Preparing the Blind Workforce for an Independent Life
For as far back as we can remember, people with disabilities have had to struggle with living fully independent lives. For the blind community, the most common misconceptions are being seen as having an inability to complete normally daily or work related tasks due to their lack of sight. People instantly assume that an individual is unable to survive or live on their own. But in truth, independence and the ability to sustain oneself is the key to overcoming any struggle. The great people at VISIONS understand this concept and have made it their mission to aid the blind community of New York in achieving true independence.
What is VISIONS?
In the 1920’s a group of six women got together and started an organization dedicated to helping the blind community of New York. It began as a “Vacation Camp” where blind members of the community could come and spend up to two weeks at a time. But little did these six women know, what the future would hold for their little Vacation Camp. Over the years, this small get away and boarding service for the blind fostered into much more. Now, VISIONS has three locations throughout New York, that provide programs and services free of charge, to over 7,000 people every year! Their programs and services include in home training, job training and placement, rehabilitation and other programs for children, teens, adults and the elderly.
All of their rehabilitation services are conducted through a team effort. Their teams consist of Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapists (CVRT), Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS), Registered Licensed Occupational Therapists (OTR/L), and Licensed Social Workers. Together their teams help individuals and their families learn the techniques they’ll need to live with vision loss. Their ultimate goal is to help keep them active at school, home, work and in the community.
Focusing on Abilities not Inabilities
VISIONS was consecutively voted #1 in NY for job placement of legally blind persons in 2016, 2017, and 2018! I had the opportunity to speak with Michael Cush, the Senior Director of Workforce Development at VISIONS, who filled me in on their strategic approach. They utilize a teams of people who work directly with the clients, mostly on a one-on-one basis. They take an individualized approach to each new client they work with. “When a client comes into our offices, they all have one thing in common, they have a visual impairment, but different backgrounds and specific needs”, said Michael. They know everyone is different and just because their disabilities are similar that doesn’t mean their abilities are too. Their focus in on each person’s abilities and not their inabilities! They get to know the client and what strengths they have. Once that is determined, they begin their training and learning how to remain independent in the workplace. By utilizing technology and more, each individual can learn what works best for them to get the job done.
Going a step further, their Workforce Development team not only educates clients, but employers as well. They work diligently to teach businesses the truth about visually impaired employees. Its not that they cannot do their job because they are blind, but rather because they are blind, they need to do their job a different way. This is why many employers are blind to the abilities of their visually impaired employees and only see their inabilities. They are fixated on the idea that a job needs to be done one standard way, when in fact every employee is different and therefore so are their approaches.
VISIONS is an organization dedicated to making their community a better place for all people. Though they only service residents of New York, their online resources and hotline number are available to all! To learn more about their services, numerous resources including the BlindLine, and more please visit their website.
Interested in getting involved with VISIONS? Simply call their main number: (212) 625-1616 and someone will give you all the information you need! To keep up with all their news, updates and events you can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
« PreviousNext »What Companies are Doing to Improve Disabled Employment
What Companies are Doing to Improve Disabled Employment
A lot of talk has been circling about the low unemployment rate in the United States. As of June 2018, our nation stands at 4% unemployment—just two percent shy of its 3.8% the month prior. Yet that number doesn’t align with every demographic’s situation.
While overall unemployment percentages are on a steady decline, the percentage of unemployed disabled persons isn’t. Between 2009 and 2015, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 4.8% decrease in employment among workers with disabilities.
Beyond that, a mere 35% of citizens with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64 even had a job in 2015. That equates to barely over one-third of the demographic. Without economic opportunities, two-thirds of this demographic is left without the financial support necessary for independence.
Evaluating the Window of Opportunity for Disabled Workers
The term disabled is a broad one. While many people fall into this category, every individual is unique in their challenges and capabilities. However, through the years, states within the US have been proving that an active strategy can widen the window of opportunity.
Pennsylvania is a fine example. Part of their recent workforce development strategy was to help disabled individuals gain opportunities to enter the workforce. The result? A total of 13,187 new jobs were filled by people in this demographic.
Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf explained the strategy by saying, “This action will increase the hiring of Pennsylvanians with a disability by allowing the commonwealth to tap a largely unused labor pool, and we will position Pennsylvania to be a model state in creating a climate hospitable to workers with a disability, who are a valuable resource.”
The executive order was designed to promote “publicly funded education, training, employment, and long-term supports and service programs for working-age Pennsylvanians with a disability.”
It’s a result that strengthened not only the disabled community but also the state’s economy.
Lighting Opportunities for a Better Future
Yet Pennsylvania isn’t the only entity making an effort to bridge the gap. Companies are making changes, too, in order to make their employment opportunities more diverse and inclusive.
this number can come in many ways. By implementing programs that provide special training, opportunities for developing leadership skills, role models within the workforce, and allies within the workplace, companies can facilitate a more inclusive environment. Also, with today’s technology, we can better accommodate many physical challenges posed by day-to-day challenges.
These changes can, and are, taking place in many areas of the US on a company level. There are many large companies who are becoming noteworthy for creating a work environment that is open to hiring, training, and facilitating equal growth opportunities for disabled employees.
Among them are names like Starbucks, CVS Health, Verizon, Wells Fargo, Delta Airlines, General Motors, Sprint, Microsoft, UPS, Royal Caribbean Cruises, and T-Mobile. Some companies, like Amazon, Nielsen, and Aetna, are even opening doors to remote work opportunities for individuals who are limited by chronic conditions or physical disabilities.
It’s a promising push in the right direction. As awareness grows and technology with it, we are starting to overcome longstanding hurdles for people who have many talents but simply need an open door for employment.
Looking to contact us? Let us know if you want to set up a conversation! (+1) 239-325-1881
« PreviousNext »Joys and Challenges: Tips for Disabled People on Preparing for Parenthood
Joys and Challenges: Tips for Disabled People on Preparing for Parenthood
There’s a longstanding misperception that disabled people either aren’t physically able to be parents, or that they need extensive and ongoing assistance. Some people believe that an expectant disabled couple has twice as much work to do getting ready to be parents, having to accommodate both their disabilities and the demands of parenthood. In fact, they face the same challenges that any parent faces: their baby will need a crib and changing table, baby clothes, and the emotional support of loving parents. Getting up for a 3 a.m. feeding may be the hardest adjustment for any parent, disabled or not.
By the time they become parents, a disabled couple’s home has already been adapted to accommodate their physical needs. There may, however, be a few logistical arrangements to make depending on the nature of their disability. Most of these adjustments can be made with easily acquired special equipment. Just like any parent, disabled people are simply interested in making the job of parenting as easy as possible.
Taking care of the details
Getting ready for the blessed event means planning ahead, figuring out what you’ll need and what changes you might need to make. In most cases, standard baby equipment works fine, though it might be necessary to fine-tune things a bit. If your upper body mobility is limited, it might be necessary to adjust your baby stroller so that you can easily carry along a diaper bag, bottles, pacifiers and other essential items. If you’re in a wheelchair, you may need to purchase a special velcro strap that allows you to connect it to your stroller or baby chair, something many disabled parents have found a useful and efficient way to improve mobility. An adjustable crib is another highly useful item that makes things easier for parents and safer for baby.
Baby-proofing your home
Making your home safe for a child is a matter of identifying and anticipating potential dangers. You’ll need to get safety gates for the top and bottom of all stairways, and install baby locks that keep little hands from getting into cleaning supplies and medicine chests. Be careful to keep sharp kitchen objects well out of reach, and place special baby covers on the controls on your stove. If access is an issue, parents in wheelchairs may need to have a ramp or lift installed for safer front and back door access.
Get your rest
Well-rested parents may seem like an oxymoron, but you need to take care of yourself to give your child the care he or she needs. Set up a schedule so that you and your spouse take turns feeding your child and changing diapers late at night. Even if you’re an experienced parent, caring for a little one can be overwhelming. Try to arrange things so that you both get a little time away to recharge your emotional batteries. It’s an important consideration – you both need time to process your feelings and relax a bit.
IVF
In vitro fertilization (IVF) may be a viable option for parents who are having trouble conceiving. According to Qunomedical, the national average for IVF treatments is $12,000, while medications may cost as much as $5,000. Some insurance companies help cover the cost of treatments, but for most people IVF is a costly process. Consider borrowing from a retirement fund or taking out a home equity loan to avoid high-interest loans. It can be well worth it: the success and availability of in vitro fertilization have given hope to many infertile couples who have not been able to conceive. Since 1978, 5.4 million babies have been born worldwide with the help of IVF.
Joys and challenges
Disabled parents anticipate the same joys and challenges that all parents expect. But being disabled does not mean they’re not prepared for the difficulties of caring for a little one. Preparation is the key, and anticipating needs that allow you make any logistical adjustments well in advance.
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