SCI And ADL
Update: As of 6-13-2023 we have discontinued production and sales of Panini Eatzii. We will require outside funding to continue development of the Eatzii.
I do a lot of web searching for information on the topic of adaptive eating aids and the topic of physical rehabilitation in general. I recently came across a great pdf slide presentation entitled: Arm and Hand Function after SCI. The URL is:
https://sci.washington.edu/info/forums/reports/Arm%20and%20hand%20function%20slides.pdf
This is a comprehensive presentation with great information that should be of interest to individuals with a spinal cord injury as well as Physical and Occupational Therapists. The presentation authors include Teresa Foy of the Shepherd Center and Gail Raymond of Craig Hospital. There is also significant input from individuals who have a spinal cord injury. The objectives of the presentation are to increase understanding of compensatory techniques to perform ADL (activities of daily living) and to help viewers gain an understanding of frequently used options. These options could include compensatory techniques as well as adaptive equipment. There are a total of 154 slides and the topics covered are comprehensive. Topics include phone and computer access. Another topic is how to hire caregivers and a secondary web site with information on this topic is given as http://sci.washington.edu/info/forums/reports/caregivers.asp
Eating, drinking, grooming and oral hygiene are also covered. I should also mention that there are numerous photo images demonstrating the techniques throughout the slides. Examples of creative equipment and techniques are use of a motion activated soap dispenser, long handle loofahs and slip on mitts for bathing, slip on hairbrushes and universal cuffs for razors.
An extensive presentation on a makeup station is also presented. Dressing is also thoroughly covered with examples of custom hooks for pulling up pants, zipper pulls and magnetic clasps. A further example of a compensatory technique for dressing that is presented are shoes with modified heels. Bowel and Bladder management techniques are also presented. There is also a section on beyond the basics that includes writing, phone and computer, cooking, laundry, home access and recreation! I hope all the authors and contributors have heard and are hearing some clapping as this is an excellent resource! We are currently developing a product to assist individuals with a high level SCI to dine independently. Information on the Eatzii, is available by clicking on the link. We will require outside investment to continue to develop the Eatzii. Thanks for visiting today and we invite you to contact us at your convenience.