MD and Assistive technology

Assistive technology enables children with neuromuscular disorders to maintain some measure of mobility and independence at school. One example of an assistive device is the use of a wheelchair. Many children use a manual wheelchair when walking is no longer efficient, and as the disease progresses a motorized wheelchair may be required. Computer technology is another example of an assistive device frequently used in the school environment. Computer technology may enable children to engage and keep up with their schoolwork. For example, a laptop or mini keyboard may be more easily accessed, or an alternative input device may be used instead of a standard keyboard. Examples of alternative input devices include voice-activated word processors for writing and dictation, word processors with scanning devices, word processors with word choices or a word recognition program that allows you to pick up a word from a list based on the first few letters instead of typing the whole word, and onscreen keyboards. There are various kinds of switches that permit access to the screen without using a keyboard. Examples of commonly used switches include switches for those with arm, elbow, foot, or knee control, head or chin pointers, buttons switches of differing sensitivities, sound-activated switches, pillow-switches (activated by facial movement), sip-and-puff switches (controlled by voluntary inhaling and exhaling), and eyeglass switches (activated by purposeful eye movement). Also, for those with coordination difficulties, a joystick, touch pad, or fingertip controls may be used rather than a track ball or mouse. Basically, users can operate a variety of communication devices and software with virtually any aspect of their body and with any body movement. Modified keyboards may also help students decrease typing errors and increase productivity. Examples of modified keyboards include larger keys or permanent large-print key labels, and overlays (plastic fit over the regular keyboard with holes punched out so that each standard key can be pressed if chosen intentionally).