Training in the use of
adaptive devices often requires certain prerequisite skills, such as reading and writing braille (Aston, 1979).
Adaptive devices that were being used (more than 80 total) were obtained from commercial sources, were do-it-yourself designs, or were learned of through nontraditional channels.
* Make sure the residents who need
adaptive devices or assistance with meals get it--and in a timely manner;
For many, spina bifida means full or partial paralysis and the need for
adaptive devices, such as a wheelchair, braces, or a cane to remain mobile.
(See
Adaptive Devices on page 16 for suggestions about ways special equipment may help.)
* Obtaining or modifying equipment or
adaptive devicesNOBUKI KAJIHARA (kajihara(a)ccm.cl.nec.co.jp) is the leader of RWCP
Adaptive Devices NEC Laboratory in Japan.
Benefits desired by persons with disabilities include coverage for prescription drugs, durable medical equipment, personal assistance care,
adaptive devices, rehabilitation services for job development and searching, and counseling services for mental illness (Reno, 1994).
There are many
adaptive devices available commercially.
While personal ingenuity and a few modern appliances can go a long way toward making your job easier, there are also many
adaptive devices designed especially for people with limited hand function.
More programs are planned through the rest of the month -- with October acknowledged as Inclusion Awareness Month -- as well as making available a variety of
adaptive devices at the library's tech learning center available for checkout.