Assistive Technologies and Other Supports for People With Brain Impairment Ebook

“This book is an extensive and impressive overview, not only of current research in assistive technology (AT), but also of its relationship to cognitive dysfunction, and of the experiences that people with cognitive disabilities present from birth or due to acquired brain injury….[It] will be valuable not only for healthcare professionals, but also as a knowledge base for users, families, and carers.”— Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine

“Marcia Scherer’s book is timely, ambitiously thorough, and provides a framework for understanding complex needs and their rehabilitation… Assistive Technologies and Other Supports for People with Brain Impairment is, to my mind, the first book of sufficient depth, theoretical clarity and usefulness to be considerable as a textbook of this exciting field.”— Neuropsychological Rehabilitation

“Dr. Scherer provides a comprehensive and well-integrated examination of disabilities associated with brain impairment and how to approach the use of adaptive technologies.”— Journal of Technology in Human Services

“[This book] gives a clear and detailed overview of how the brain reacts to impairment and gives illustrated examples of effective integration of AT into the lives of people with cognitive disability. The resources referred to are primarily American but the principles are universal.”— The Newsletter of the Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association

“The author’s strong and diverse experience in clinical, research and technology has resulted in an important guide for practitioners, families, caregivers and persons with disability who are seeking assistive technology supports.”— Brain Injury Professional

Integrating current research with the experiences of people with cognitive disabilities, this volume examines how assistive and cognitive support technologies are being harnessed to provide assistance for thinking, remembering, and learning. The book vividly describes real-life situations in which cognitively impaired individuals use assistive supports and the advantages and limitations these individuals perceive from their use. It provides information on how cognitively impaired individuals and their families and caregivers can select the most appropriate technologies from a wide array of accommodations and resources, including individualized protocols of different forms of support to facilitate optimal functioning.

The text offers practitioners a comprehensive and systematic process for ensuring their clients’ effective application and utilization of this technology. This book will also provide insight for users of assistive technology and their families and caregivers to ensure optimal technology use.

Key Features:

• Outlines an effective process for integrating assistive technologies into the activities and lifestyle of users with cognitive disabilities
• Explains how to match individuals with the most appropriate devices to enhance independent functioning
• Provides a detailed overview of neurological and physical characteristics of various cognitive disabilities present at birth or acquired through accident, illness, or aging
• Includes figures, checklists, assessment tools, and illustrations throughout the text for enhanced learning