MAXIMIZING TECHNOLOGY TO ASSIST DISABILITY

Over 15% of the world’s population live with a disability. This can have a huge impact on the way an individual navigates the world. That said, every year, there are new technological innovations that are created to help care for those living with a disability. These can be used in their day to day lives to help tackle the unique challenges that they may face.

These technologies have the potential to completely change someone’s way of life, making them more independent or allowing them to take part in something that they may have been unable to before. Here are a few new technologies that can help improve care for the disabled and create a truly inclusive world for them…

Screen Readers and Voice Assistants: Screen readers and voice assistants, such as Apple's VoiceOver and Amazon's Alexa, provide auditory feedback and enable individuals with visual impairments to access digital content, control smart devices, and perform various tasks using voice commands.

1. Screen Readers and Voice Assistants: Screen readers and voice assistants, such as Apple's VoiceOver and Amazon's Alexa, provide auditory feedback and enable individuals with visual impairments to access digital content, control smart devices, and perform various tasks using voice commands.
    
2. Prosthetic Limbs with Myoelectric Control: Prosthetic limbs with myoelectric control use signals generated by the user's residual muscles to control the movements of the artificial limb. This enables more natural and intuitive movement for amputees.
3. Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs): BCIs allow individuals with severe motor disabilities to control computers and devices using their brain activity. These interfaces can be used to type, move a cursor, control robotic arms, and even communicate using thought alone.
4. Bionic Exoskeletons: The technologies surrounding bionic exoskeletons have been improving rapidly and are believed to one day replace wheelchairs. Exoskeletons are wearable robotic devices that can assist individuals with mobility impairments by providing physical support and enhancing their ability to walk or perform movements they might otherwise find difficult.
5. Cochlear Implants: Cochlear implants are electronic devices that provide a sense of sound to individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. They bypass damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve, allowing recipients to perceive sound.
    
6. Eye-Tracking Technology: Eye-tracking technology enables individuals with limited mobility, such as those with ALS or spinal cord injuries, to control computers, communicate, and interact with the world by tracking their eye movements.
    
7. Text-to-Speech and Speech-to-Text Tools: Text-to-speech software converts written text into spoken words, aiding individuals with visual impairments or learning disabilities. Speech-to-text tools do the opposite, allowing spoken words to be converted into written text. An incredibly famous example of an individual using text-to-speech software to communicate is Stephen Hawking; this technology allowed him to be more independent and get better care.
    
8. Eye-controlled wheelchairs: There are many reasons why an individual may require a wheelchair to get around, whether that be due to mobility issues or mental impairments. Developing technologies may make it possible for these individuals to control the chair with eye movements.
    
9. Haptic Feedback Devices: Haptic feedback devices provide tactile sensations to users, aiding individuals with visual impairments in perceiving and interacting with digital interfaces and virtual environments.

These inventions represent just a fraction of the many technological advancements that are positively impacting the lives of individuals with disabilities. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions to further enhance accessibility and inclusion for everyone.

About the Author

Neelakshi Mukherjee

Senior Director, The Next Milestone Technologies Pvt. Ltd

Neelakshi Mukherjee is a seasoned leadership facilitator and executive coach with over 25 years of experience in human resource development and Leadership Development across global markets. Formerly the Head of HR at Aegis, responsible for a team of over 20,000 people, she brings deep expertise in leadership development, competency mapping, and talent nurturing. 

She specializes in succession planning, leadership transitions, team building, communication skills, conflict management, and DEI initiatives. Her tailored interventions help organizations cultivate high-potential leaders through step-up programs, individual development plans (IDPs), and culture-building initiatives. 

Neelakshi is an NLP Practitioner, Train-the-Trainer professional, an image consultant, and a POSH certified expert, making her a trusted facilitator for leadership excellence and workforce transformation. She has extensive coaching and facilitation experience across the global market, including Europe, Russia, Middle East, Singapore, and Australia. She has deep expertise in sectors like Banking , Insurance services, Hospitality, Technology and Tech-enabled services, Retail and Manufacturing, among others.