Assistive Technology (a.k.a. adaptive technology) is probably the most important way to improve the lives of those with DMD and other disabilities. Ventillators and other medical devices may prolong lives, but AT makes them worth prolonging, by allowing people with disabilities to do tasks they wouldn't be able to do otherwise. Important things like writing, reading, drawing, eating, and talking.
AT is basically any device designed or altered to make life easier for the disabled. This article focuses on something that accomplishes many important tasks: the home computer. With a few special devices and software DMD'ers can easily use a computer. They can type, browse the internet, send e-mail, meet people, draw, chat, or even build web sites like this one.
My trackball is the most important item I have to help me with my computer. If you're not familiar with trackballs, they are like a mouse, but upside-down. You roll a small ball with your fingers instead of moving the whole unit around. Trackballs vary in size, shape, and speed, so choose one that you're comfortable with. The trackballs with software can be made faster, which is crucial if your fingers are small and weak. They run from $25 to well over $100. I find the mid-priced ones to be fine, no need to spend more than $60. You can go to http://www.logitech.com/ or http://www.kensington.com/ for more information on trackballs.
Another device I use is a clicker switch. I can't push the buttons on my trackball, so I need an easier way to click on icons, menus, and web links. Swiches are a nice option, but some aren't sensitive enough. You should always test them out before buying.
Many adults and children with DMD use voice recognition software to type, click, and perform most normal functions. They can range in price from under $100 to well over $200. IBM ViaVoice and Dragon NaturallySpeaking (both by ScanSoft) are the most popular VR products.
I use an onscreen keyboard for typing and whatever else regular keyboards do. The best onscreen keyboards are probably Discover: Screen, Keystrokes 3.1 and OnScreen. Onscreen keyboards go for under $50, to several hundred dollars. Don't buy the cheapest ones. They are okay, but can't be customized to your specific needs and lack several helpful features. Windows XP includes a basic onscreen keyboard, which will at least allow for someone to try out using an onscreen keyboard.
Consult your state or province's Department of Aging and Disability (or equivalent), or an occupational therapist for more information on funding for AT and what items might work best for you. You can of course do a little research on-line first. Here are two good web sites to begin with:
- Adaptive Technology Resource Centre: www.utoronto.ca/atrc/
- AbleData: www.abledata.com/
