Tutorial 8 - Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is referred to as a broad range of devices, services, strategies and practices which are available for people with disabilities. This can be any piece of equipment which increases or improves functional capacities for people living with disabilites. (Cook and Hussey, 2000)

Buddy button - A Buddy Button is a single switch. They can come in many different colours and styles. Most of all it is RELIABLE and DURABLE. Buddy Buttons are activated by pressing anywhere on the top surface: the force to activate around the edges is half the force required in the center. The buddy button can be used for anything from a mouse for a computer to a switch for a bell in hospital. There are 11 different colours or patterns available when ordering a buddy button!
The buuddy button also comes in two different sizes. The smaller one is:
Buddy Specifications:
Diameter - 6.3 cm
Height - 1.8 cm
Weight - 60 g
whereas the larger one is:
Diameter - 11.5 cm
Height - 2.5 cm
Weight - 123 g

Both sizes of the buddy button only cost $55 dollars. Therefore this is a very cost efficient device.

Buddy buttons can be used with patients who:

*people who need a sensitive switch - some patients may not have a lot of strength or control therefore may need a very sensitive switch with their abilities. For example spinal injury patients.

*people who need a durable switch - People want the switch to last and be able to withstand sudden forceful movement. For example if someone doesnt have much control over movement, they may forceful hit the switch. Buddy buttons will stand up to this.

*people who need colorful switches due to vision
requirements or for differentiating between switches - Buddy buttons come in many different colours and designs therefore the person can get one which appeals to them.

*people who need a switch that is simple to mount - Buddy button can sit evenly on a table or are able to be pinned onto things. For example for spinal injury buddy buttons were connected to the bell. They were then pinned to the pillow therefore guys who could not move their arms were able to use their heads to activate the bell.