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Adaptive technology is a fairly new term, but the basic idea is not. Some adaptive devices are simple, like the cane, which has a history as old as mankind itself. Others seem to come more from the realm of science fiction.
However mundane or complicated, all are a testament to human determination, creativity and ambition. Here, we look at seven high-tech assistive devices and how they're helping those with disabilities lead full and fulfilling lives.
1. The DynaVox EyeMax System
In combination with the Vmax+, the DynaVox EyeMax system gives individuals with paralysis, cerebral palsy and stroke victims the ability to participate in spoken communication using only their eyes. Using a sophisticated eye tracking system, users can interact with an on-screen keyboard, allowing them to enter words and phrases, which are then translated into spoken text via the device's text-to-speech mechanism.
In addition to the on-screen keyboard, the InterACCt language software on the device offers hundreds of pre-defined phrases and words, which can be selected from lists or chosen via pictures and scenes, making the device instantly accessible to young children and the mentally disabled who may be unable to grasp written language