Page 165 - Handbook of Electronic Assistive Technology

Chapter 6 • Environmental Control 153

FIGURE 6-1 Illustration of a conventional environmental control system�

• Computer-based functions (including social media communication, internet
browsing, emails and access to e-books).
• Integration to other electronic assistive technology (EAT) devices (i.e., communication
aids or wheelchair control systems).

Violet’s Case Study
BACKGROUND
Violet is in her mid-60s and has had a diagnosis of secondary progressive multiple sclero-
sis. Her vision is moderate to severely impaired, with selective field effects and fatigue. She
no longer stands due to muscle weakness and tone. She is transferred by hoist. Her upper
limbs are significantly affected by muscle weakness, tone, intentional tremor and fatigue
with reduced hand function. Violet has reduced peripheral sensation, especially in her
hands. She has retained some range of movement of her head and neck although some-
what jerky. Violet is articulate but her speech is affected by respiratory capacity, which has
become more limited.
Violet is interested in current affairs and follows these through television and radio
reports. She likes to relax with a good book, which she does by listening to ‘talking books’.
Violet lives independently in her second floor flat in a residential block, with carers visit-
ing three times a day for personal care, and a personal assistant at other times for more