2011 - The 1st Workshop on "Assistive Technologies For Physical, Occupational Therapy and Rehabilitation"

The 1st Workshop on
"Assistive Technologies For Physical, Occupational Therapy and Rehabilitation"

Workshop Theme and Goals

Clinicians, educators and researchers in rehabilitation technology have expertise in a wide variety of pervasive/assistive technology that is used throughout the lifespan of individuals with disabilities to increase independence and enhance quality of life. The current view of the World Health Organization is that improving a person's physical and social environment will increase any individual's universal access to life experiences. Rehabilitation technology often involves an interdisciplinary team of occupational, physical, speech therapists, rehabilitation engineers, suppliers, and/or education/vocation specialists who work to identify barriers to access the environment and improve participation. An understanding of current research and trends is critical for rehabilitation technology clinicians, educators and researchers increase their ability to offer the technological design that will fit best the rehabilitated individuals.

This workshop will consider an array of evidence-based practice on rehabilitation technology used to enhance function and participation. Additionally, topics on legal aspects for consideration of pervasive/assistive technology will be considered.

Topics of Interest

We are interested in original papers and case studies describing advances in all areas of assistive technologies for physical, occupational therapy and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:
Seating and mobility
Augmentative communication (low tech to high tech)
Use of iDevices for rehabilitation (iPad, iPhone, iTouch)
Tools for persons with visual impairment or blindness
Assistive technology for the classroom (switches, software and low tech)
Universal design for the home, school and workplace
Rehabilitation engineering
Accelerometers and assessment of physical activity in rehab
Home assessment of health status and exercise program design and progression
Prosthetic design and rehabilitation
Robotic technology used in rehabilitation
Computer Interface Design
Adaptive software and hardware as a tool for rehabilitation
AAC for adults with neurological disorders
Evidence-based practice for assistive technology
Current/future trends in telecommunication to advance rehabilitation
Technology in disaster planning for persons with special needs