What is assistive technology?
Assistive technology (AT) is a device, program, or piece of equipment that helps people. AT allows people with disabilities to carry out everyday tasks that would be difficult or impossible otherwise. AT is a broad category because the needs of AT users are very different.
People with disabilities can experience a range of difficulties with movement. If someone has a condition that affects the nervous system, they may struggle with fine motor skills. They might find it hard to write or fasten buttons. The absence of a limb is another condition that can make movement difficult. This is called limb difference. For people with limb difference, a prosthesis can help improve their range of movement. But the prosthesis needs to be made to meet the user’s needs.
Prostheses are not a modern invention. The first prosthetic limb in recorded history dates to 200 BCE. It belonged to a Roman General named Marcus Sergius. He lost his hand in battle. It was replaced with a metal hand shaped to hold his shield. Although the design might seem a bit basic, the durability of the prosthesis helped Sergius survive many more battles. It met Sergius’s needs.
Today, users of prostheses have more options. There are many types of prostheses available for a wide range of different needs. Some people with lower arm limb differences may want a prosthesis that closely resembles a hand. Others may prefer a more durable, waterproof option that allows them to do certain tasks—like farming or mountaineering.
Some challenges faced by people with disabilities can be overcome with simple solutions. For example, a person with limited fine motor skills might write more easily with a pencil grip. A pencil grip is one example of a no-tech solution. This is a solution that has no complex parts. Other kinds of solutions are more complex. Low-tech solutions are simple devices which may have mechanical parts, but do not need a power source. Glasses, walking canes or crutches, and adapted eating and drinking utensils are examples of low-tech solutions. High-tech solutions are even more complex. Hearing aids and motorized wheelchairs are examples of high-tech solutions. These solutions may require the collaboration of experts from different fields.
Of course, the most complex solution is not always the right one. Some people may prefer a high-tech prosthetic hand, but others may want a simpler design. Having a wide variety of designs to choose from is one way engineers meet the needs of individual users.
Nate Macabuag is a mechanical engineer. He designs low-tech prostheses. He recently developed a low-tech device called the Koalaa sleeve with his design partner Alex Lewis. Alex’s limbs were amputated after a life-threatening infection. Their solution helps users address hand and lower arm limb differences.
“We wanted our design to be comfortable and practical. The fabric sleeve fits easily over the lower arm, and the interchangeable tools allow the wearer to carry out specific tasks such as writing or holding a cup.”
The first step in creating their design was brainstorming. Nate explains: “When designing prosthetic solutions, you have to ask several questions. What problem needs to be solved? What technology already exists? And how can you make those pre-existing solutions better? There is no catch-all option! The needs of an athlete will be different to someone looking for a prosthesis to carry out everyday tasks, such as painting, riding a bike, or chopping vegetables. We can’t give someone a perfect replica of their old limb. But we can design a prosthesis that is easy to wear and suitably adapted to their lifestyle.”
It’s not yet possible to replicate the movement and sensation of an absent limb. Engineers and designers like Nate and Alex try to support as many people as possible by designing solutions that meet a range of needs. This is why communication between engineers and AT users is so important. If AT fails to address individual needs and priorities, then it fails. It doesn’t matter how high-tech it is.
By responding to users’ needs and including ever-increasing options, AT can offer comfort, efficiency, and improved welfare to millions of people around the world.
Glossary
high-tech solution a design made of the most advanced mechanics and motors, often with a powersource.
limb difference the absence of a limb.
low-tech solution a simple design which may have mechanical parts, but does not need a powersource.
no-tech solution a design with no complex parts.