Assistive technology is ‘any item, piece of equipment or
product system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or
customized that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of
individuals with disabilities’ (Law, 1976, p. 104). This to me means that assistive technologies
are tools or services that help improve the quality of life for people with
disabilities by enabling them to do occupations that they would otherwise not
be able to do.
A piece of assistive technology I would like to introduce is
the BIGtrack Trackball. The BIGtrack Trackball is a giant 3 inch trackball
mouse alternative for computer users enabling easy and accurate mouse
movements. The BIGtrack is the largest trackball available. The large ball
requires less fine motor control than a standard trackball and it is ruggedly
built. The left and a right mouse click button located behind the trackball to
avoid unwanted mouse clicks (Media, 2011). This would help people with disabilities in the
way that they will now be able to complete their occupations they want to on
the computer.
This is a You Tube clip that shows a man using this
technology to help him with his computer technology that helps him communicate
to his wife, family and friends.
Another website on the BIGtrack Trackball is the official
website (linked below) and explains the BIGtrack Trackball in more detail and
shows dealers that supply this technology.
By using the BIGtrack Trackball an individual can overcome
occupational deprivation because they will be able to engage in the occupation
on the computer that they want to and would not otherwise be able to do. Occupational
deprivation is stated as being an external circumstance that influences and
prevents someone from their occupation over an extended period of time
(Townsend E.A. & Polaitajko, 2007).
Media, W. (2011). BIGtrack
Trackball. Retrieved May 2, 2012, from Star Mobility Disability Centre:
http://www.starmobility.co.nz/computer-1/mouse/bigtrack-track-ball.html
Townsend E.A. & Polaitajko, H. J. (2007). Enabling Occupation II: Advancing an occupational therapy for health, well-being, & justice through occupation. Ottawa: Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists.
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