Agilitas Wearable: Improves Freezing Gait Symptom For Better Mobility
Agilitas Wearable for Parkinsons improves freezing gait
What we loved about Agilitas:
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Helps to reduce freezing gait by providing the wearer with a visual cue to prompt continued motion.
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Improves mobility in Parkinsons patients to allow them to stay independent for longer and reduce the likelihood of falls
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Automatic and manual modes available
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The simple and discreet device
The Agilitas wearable is a simple, black disc that you can wear on your clothing around the hip area to help with the freezing gait symptom thats common to Parkinsons Disease. It uses a motion-sensing algorithm to detect when youre about to freeze. It then shines a small red dot on the floor to visually cue your brain as to where the next steps should go.
“Agilitas represents a revolutionary approach to the treatment of freezing of gait. It harnesses sophisticated 21st-century technology to create a discreet, powerful, yet elegantly simple solution. Agilitas promises to improve the quality of life of countless patients with Parkinsons Disease. Endorsed by Dr Rodney Marsh FRANZCP MBBS
You can use it in automatic mode, where the Agilitas will detect when youre about to freeze on its own. Alternatively, there is the manual mode where you can tap it once to turn on the light on your own. And double tapping it keeps the light on permanently good for areas with many obstacles. There is also now a cane attachment included.
What we loved about Rollz
Assistive Devices For Patients With Parkinsons Disease
Speech-Language Pathologist
As discussed in a previous blog entry, patients with Parkinsons Disease develop problems with speaking and communicating. As the medical industry progresses, devices and tools become available to patients to help with communication.
Below are several assistive devices that are available to help people with Parkinsons Disease. These devices can help people communicate more clearly.
This is a dental apparatus that is similar to a retainer. It lifts the soft palate and stops air from escaping out of the nose during speech.
This is a personal amplifier that can be used to increase vocal loudness in soft-spoken people. The amplifier also decreases voice fatigue.
This is a telephone equipped with a keyboard so speech can be typed and read by a relay operator to the listener. Either the whole message can be typed or just the words that are not understood can be typed.
Notebooks and language boards can be used as alternative communication techniques.
Computers with voice synthesizers and dedicated communication devices are available.
Patients who are interested in purchasing electronic communication aids should discuss this with a speech-language therapist before contacting sales representatives for these devices.
Parkinsons Disease And Movement Disorders Center
Our center provides compassionate and timely treatment to patients with movement disorders, such as dystonia, ataxia, essential tremor and similar conditions. But our mission goes beyond patient care excellence. By offering educational events and support groups, we empower patients and caregivers to become better partners in their health.
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New Possibilities For Living Life With Parkinsons
With constant advancements in technology, whats possible in the life of a person with Parkinsons is increasing every day. Were continually inspired to see individuals with the condition, fight the effects, increase awareness and research, participate in trials to find a cure, and live life to the fullest.
If youre still unsure about which assistive devices or aids are the best for you, click the button below and tell us more about you! Our smart algorithm has scanned over 2000+ health and lifestyle technology devices and understands the top functions available for different needs. With a few details about what you need help with, we can suggest a more comprehensive list for your consideration.Request a free, independent custom deck of ideas, product options, and tips to share with those closest.
Please remember, these should not be considered life-saving devices. Always consult your Doctor, health professionals, and those closest to you. In some cases, financing or payment assistance may be available from your health insurer or via payment plans.
helloEd is a curated collection of the mainstream through to emerging, health-related technology products from across the world. We find, assess and curate the world’s technology to give you choices about what’s possible, and to help you get back to doing what you love. to ask questions or be updated when new articles are released,
What Is Assistive Technology For Parkinsons Disease
Assistive technology may be classified as a device or system which provides a person with practical solutions to everyday life activity challenges. In this case the Google Glass app focuses on four challenges which people with Parkinsons disease commonly experience.
The advisory team in the development of the assistive technology for Parkinsons disease includes researchers from New York Presbyterian/Weill-Cornell Medical Center and Standford Universitys Movement Disorders Center.
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Assistive Technology And Device Tips
As you explore assistive technology, keep these tips in mind:
- Many assistive devices are commercially available through major retailers and online.
- Talk to your care team before using or purchasing medical-related equipment.
- A written prescription may be needed for items such as a lift chair, walker, or wheelchair to be covered by your insurance provider. Your care team can help you navigate insurance reimbursement when applicable.
For more detailed information, utilize this online list of assistive and adaptive daily living aids developed by Chicagos Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, an innovative, research-driven rehabilitation institution affiliated with Northwestern University, a Parkinsons Foundation Center of Excellence.
Adaptive Dining Products To Help Reduce Spills
Dining plates and bowls, plate guards, and two-handle mugs promote independence, self-confidence, and safer eating for those with Parkinsons disease. Built-up sides on plates and bowls help users to push food onto the fork or spoon as well as keeping the food contained. Suction bases on bowls and plates also help to prevent slipping.
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For safer and easier drinking, this mug has a weighted base and two large handles to accommodate adult fingers. The lid’s spout also helps to prevent spills |
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This convenient dining kit includes a weighted utensil set designed to improve your grasp while feeding, as well as dining ware for reducing spills and messes |
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Designed to allow the user to push food against the raised side of the plate, this dish helps scoop food with only one hand if necessary |
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Promoting independence and self-confidence, this unique spill guard minimizes messy spills at meal time. It easily attaches to standard round plates for convenience |
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A polypropylene mug with an easy-to-grasp handle, used for either hot or cold liquids. The lid regulates flow for safer drinking |
Stable dining surfaces can also help simplify mealtimes for those with shaky hands and weakness. The non-slip material can be cut-to-size and placed under a plate or bowl to keep it from moving on the table.
Simple changes and adaptations can make meals easier to prepare, eat, and clean up. Help your loved ones dine with ease and comfort using one of these adaptive utensils and tableware!
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Heres More Ot Brisbane Parkinsons Disease Resources:
- 7 Resources To Help You Get Up To Speed About What Are Parkinsons Disease Symptoms.
- Parkinsons Disease Treatment: How You Can Delay The Decline
Contact Us Today or phone us at 1300 783 200 to discuss your Parkinsons Disease situation.
The Occupational Therapy Blog is a news and health promotion initiative. It by no means aims to be a source of medical or therapeutic advice. We enjoy sharing information and will attempt to curate it as best we can. Youd appreciate we like to lighten our blog articles which often tackles very serious issues. Its our way of sharing. The information contained on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, or intervention. Always seek the advice of your GP or qualified therapist with any questions you may have regarding your personal situation. Never substitute or delay seeking professional advice because of information youve read on this website.
How Can I Make My Home Easier To Live In
Not all of these recommendations may be right for you. Your occupational therapist or rehabilitation specialist can help determine which of these are best for you.
In your living room and bedrooms:
Place furniture so that you have wide walkways. This will leave you plenty of space to move around.
If you can, make outlets easily available for lamps and appliances. If you need extension cords, make sure theyre secured with tape and out of the way, so you dont trip on them.
Use chairs with straight backs, armrests, and firm seats. This will make it easier for you to get up and sit down. Firm cushions can add height and make it easier to move.
Look for lamps that you can turn on with a touch or with sound.
If possible, change your phones to ones with larger buttons. Itll make dialing easier. Have the numbers you call a lot programmed into speed dial.
Install handrails along walls, hallways, and stairwells where there is nothing to hold on to.
If you have trouble getting out of bed, see about having a stationary pole or trapeze bar installed. You could also try to sleep in a reclining chair.
In your bathroom:
Use an elevated toilet seat or safety rails to make it easier for you to get up. Dont use towel racks or bathroom tissue holders to help you stand.
Put extended lever handles on your faucets. Thatll make them easier to turn.
In your kitchen:
Have at least one counter workspace lowered so you can reach it when youre sitting.
Also:
Read Also: What Tests Are Done For Parkinson’s Disease
Social Security Disability Insurance
SSDI, often referred to as simply Disability, is assistance intended for those individuals who are of working age and cannot work as a direct result of their medical condition. The SSA does not provide care assistance but instead provides financial assistance that can be used for care. To be eligible one must both have a written diagnosis of Parkinsons Disease and have earned monthly income of less than approximately $1,000.
Side Note: Keep An Eye Out For
Cue, by Nanotech
What we liked about the progress of CUE :
We’re including this to give you something to think about in the future, or to join their waitlist for updates. The product is well designed, has a strong team, reputable support, good early customer experiences, and shares trial results.
CUE a non-invasive wearable device for Parkinsons, utilizes pulsed cueing and focused vibrotactile stimulation to reduce symptoms of slowness and stiffness resulting in improved movement. It delivers gentle vibratory stimulus to the peripheral nervous system, producing a characteristic cortical response that eases the typical stiffness and slowness symptoms associated with Parkinsons.
Users of CUE for Parkinsons report feeling that movement is better controlled and they can move smoother, easier and faster whilst wearing the device.
The product is still in testing. Follow the link to learn more, and read the science, customer testimonials, and early research indications. Estimates indicate an average of 16% improvement in movement. Additional features include tracking symptoms and medication assistance.
Note We will continue to monitor the progress of this product. Please do your own research.
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A Review Of Assistive Technologies For People With Parkinson’s Disease
Issue title: Smart Environments: Technology to Support Healthcare
Guest editors: Dewar D. Finlay
Article type: Research Article
Authors: Cunningham, L.M.a * | Nugent, C.D.a | Finlay, D.D.a | Moore, G.a | Craig, D.b
Affiliations: Computer Science Research Institute and School of Computing and Mathematics, Faculty of Computing and Engineering, University of Ulster, Jordanstown, Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, UK | Belfast City Hospital/Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
Correspondence: Address for correspondence: Laura M. Cunningham, School of Computing and Mathematics, Faculty of Computing and Engineering, University of Ulster, Jordanstown, Shore Road, Newtownabbey, BT37 0QB, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK. Tel.: +44 28 90368918 E-mail: .
Keywords: Assistive technology, Parkinson’s disease, mobile phone, personal computer, touch screen device
DOI: 10.3233/THC-2009-0547
Journal: Technology and Health Care, vol. 17, no. 3, pp. 269-279, 2009
Smartphone Apps For Patients With Pd
The smartphone is one device that can really support people with Parkinsons disease. Many apps are currently available in these smartphones to help address various aspects of PD patients needs.
The apps work hand in hand with the wearable sensors to track, record, and store data. The sensors are integrated into these smartphones to gather information regarding the patients condition and progress. The sensors include those that track finger tapping, memory condition through playing memory games, walking, and speaking.
Below is a list of some apps specifically developed to support those with Parkinsons disease:
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Can I Benefit From Assistive Technology
Answer the following questions to see if assistive technology may help you:
- Can I communicate effectively and be understood by others?
- Can I use my computer to read or type as effectively as in the past?
- Do tremors impact my ability to type?
- Do I have difficulty using a touch screen?
- Am I having more difficulty remembering passwords?
- Am I able to effectively control electronics within the home environment?
- Have I experienced falls or loss of balance?
Beats Medical Parkinson’s Therapy App: Improves Mobility Speech And Dexterity Symptoms
Beats Medical for Parkinsons App
What we loved about Beats Medical Parkinsons App:
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Helps improve mobility, speech, and dexterity symptoms through simple and effective guided exercises
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User-friendly app with an intuitive interface
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Individualized treatment it assesses your baseline abilities and suggests the best treatment
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Progress reports that show your improvements
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Works on iPhone and iPad
Beats Medical is an innovative exercise app that helps to improve the mobility, speech, and dexterity symptoms of Parkinsons patients in a series of 10-minute therapy sessions. It was founded by Dr. Ciara Clancy a chartered physiotherapist and researcher who has worked with internationally renowned specialists to develop the Beats Medical app.
Its even received recognition from charities like Parkinsons UK and an award from Googles Adopt a Start-up program.
The mobility section of the app provides daily, tailored metronome therapy. This is where the user places their phone in their trouser pocket while a beat plays from the app.
We love that such a simple exercise can make such a big difference in the lives of Parkinsons patients, as demonstrated in studies like these. in studieslike these.
The dexterity section works on fine motor skills. Using your fingers or a stylus the exercises concentrate on hand coordination techniques making daily tasks easier. These therapies replicate clinical exercises such as the Nine Hole Peg Test.
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Things To Consider When Buying Assistive Living Devices
Not every Parkinsons patient is the same. We come from all walks of life and age groups with different needs and desires. So there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to selecting the best aids or devices to make living with Parkinsons easier. To help you guide your decision making, here are some factors to consider:
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Consider what your symptoms are like. The severity and range of symptoms youre experiencing may be different from the next person. For example, if you have severe fine motor skills issues then an app may not be suited to your needs.
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Do its functions serve the needs youre looking for? Ask yourself what exactly youre looking for in a device or what your goals are. For example, are you looking for a holistic health device? Or something that will help with a specific aspect of your condition?
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Are there any additional costs to the device? Some devices may come with an app subscription which may add to the long-term cost of using it.
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Setup and long-term use logistics. Consider if you will be able to use this device independently. If not, will you be able to enlist the help of a caregiver or loved one to assist you?
Discover Other Projects Like Exopulse
Since 2015, Maker Faire Rome has been running a contest dedicated to advanced tech-enabled healthcare solution: Make to Care.
Make to Care is promoted by Sanofi Genzyme, Specialty Care division of Sanofi. Sanofi Genzyme is specifically providing solutions for rare diseases, multiple sclerosis, oncology and immunology. MaketoCare wants to celebrate and support initiatives and projects arising from the cleverness and passion of the Maker community.
Make to Care is aimed at bringing out and facilitating the creation and growth of innovative and useful solutions to meet the real needs of people with any form of disability, meant as any marked decrease in quality of life due to pathologies and / or traumatic events.
The participation to the contest is open to all those who have been able to grasp a concrete need, directing their talent and proposing an innovative solution.
Maker Faire Rome The European Edition has been committed since eight editions to make innovation accessible and usable to all, with the aim of not leaving anyone behind. Its blog is always updated and full of opportunities and inspiration for makers, makers, startups, SMEs and all the curious ones who wish to enrich their knowledge and expand their business, in Italy and abroad.
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