[CNA Don]

Hello to all,

I am brand new to this discussion board... actually this is my very first discussion board! It is the first one that I have ever been inspired to join. I have recently changed careers into healthcare field and have started work as a certified nursing assistant.

In my facility I have many people that I take care of, but one gentleman stands out. He has mobility from the neck up and extremely limited use of his right hand. He is able to move it to turn on his call light, sometimes involuntarily. We are just getting to know each other and was wondering if I could encourage him to get into computers, so he could write e-mails, play a game, maybe even join a this discussion board. It bothers me to see him just sitting in front of the TV or staring out the window. I believe that he has great potential.

With this thought in mind I found your website through a google search and it was a great start to finding what is available out there, things like the IntergaMouse. I downloaded the flier brought it to my facility, but it was hinted to me that it was probably going to be cost prohibitive for the facility to purchase all the equipment needed. I get the feeling that he is unable to afford anything like this. I want to be careful not to get his hopes up unless I know this could happen. And I'm not even sure he would want such a set-up.

So my question is; In the US is there money out there in the form of public or private grants that could ease or even eliminate the burden of financing such an endeavor? I'm open to any other ideas that anyone might have.

Thank you,

Don

[fatdave]

Welcome Don,

I wish I knew the answer to your question. I wanted to respond because I was touched that you would ask about adaptive equipment for a stranger in their care.

Thank you for caring.

[CNA Don]

Thank you Dave for your kind words. We may be strangers now, but I’m hoping to build a great friendship. What would be even better is that he would be able to be friends with you and others on this board.

I believe that this financing is just a small obstacle and some how, some way it will happen.

I have to say that I’ve been quite inspired reading through this discussion board. I’m reminded of Leo Buscaglia that said; “No one has ever found a limit to human potential.” I truly believe that I am in the presence of greatness. Thank you all for allowing me to be here.

[uoc]

If the user can speak, he can use natural dragon speaker. A lot of quadriplegics from US are using it. I'm not sure, but i think the assurance will cover the costs. Check this video on youtube. Also you can check IBM approach named ViaVoice [youtube video]. Microsoft has a speech recognition application since Vista. [youtube video]

If he really wish to use a mouse like setup, he can try SmartNav [youtube video]

When is about learning in using a computer, having the tool on the desk is all it is necessary. In our days knowledge is more free than ever was. Hr can ask anybody from the internet and learn how things are working .

good luck

This post has been edited by uoc: 23 May 2009 - 05:33 PM

[Bob C]

CNA Don, on Apr 23 2009, 09:25 PM, said:

Hello to all,

I am brand new to this discussion board... actually this is my very first discussion board! It is the first one that I have ever been inspired to join. I have recently changed careers into healthcare field and have started work as a certified nursing assistant.

In my facility I have many people that I take care of, but one gentleman stands out. He has mobility from the neck up and extremely limited use of his right hand. He is able to move it to turn on his call light, sometimes involuntarily. We are just getting to know each other and was wondering if I could encourage him to get into computers, so he could write e-mails, play a game, maybe even join a this discussion board. It bothers me to see him just sitting in front of the TV or staring out the window. I believe that he has great potential.

With this thought in mind I found your website through a google search and it was a great start to finding what is available out there, things like the IntergaMouse. I downloaded the flier brought it to my facility, but it was hinted to me that it was probably going to be cost prohibitive for the facility to purchase all the equipment needed. I get the feeling that he is unable to afford anything like this. I want to be careful not to get his hopes up unless I know this could happen. And I'm not even sure he would want such a set-up.

So my question is; In the US is there money out there in the form of public or private grants that could ease or even eliminate the burden of financing such an endeavor? I'm open to any other ideas that anyone might have.


Don,

In my area, just about anyone who cannot afford a computer can get one from a local organization that collects and refurbises computers. They are not new, but are quite adequate for basics. I note you are from Texas. you might contact the Texas Assistive Technology Network for some direction. I am sure there are a lot of compuuters around waiting for a newowner.
Thank you,

Don

[qbounce]

I'm way late in adding to this thread, but I just found out the IRS is allowing a tax right off for all college bound students a computer and all computer related software, including internet connection service, between the 2009-2010 tax season. I'm sure MANY people have kids, so although not everyone benefits from this, it's sure nice to know it can be deducted if you fall into this criteria.

I realize the disability aspect doesn't apply . . . .but hey, I'll take it where I can get it.

[ADP-10-08-63]

all local authorities now are using libaries with internet cafe option your request seems highly un-likely
sorry to be passer truth-full news
but have a good day