DIGEST Autumn 2015 Disability Information Service
In this issue: Latest Gadgets / Preparing for Autumn / Family Court / Great
Grips / Sumo Walking Sticks / Four Star Golf Cruiser / NZSL Taster Classes /
Something for the Future / South Community Mental Health Team / CRASH3
Protective Headgear / Soft-Wheels / Rubber Threshold Ramps / Tri-Ride / FireFly
/ Doubleton Cardholders / U-Step II Walking Stabilizer / Everyday made easier
Blog / Alber Twion Wheels / Bio Cleaning Products / E-Move Power assist Wheel
/ MAX Powerchair
Latest Gadgets
Earlier in the year there was a series of “Show Your Ability” expos held around
New Zealand. On display are all kinds of equipment including: wheelchairs shower stools – stairlifts - powered wheelchairs - portable ramps - paediatric
seating systems – walking aids - mobility scooters - hoists - daily living
equipment - pressure mattresses - specialised seating - hi/lo beds - standing
frames - disability information - vehicle modifications - lo rise lifts
The expos highlighted that there has been some really good gadgets and
equipment designed to make life easier come on the market recently. So we
thought we would feature some of them in this edition.
Where possible we have listed the agent who would be the best to contact for
further information.
Preparing for Autumn
As weather is getting colder many of us will be starting to use our home heating
systems and appliances for the first time in quite a few months. When was the
last time your heating system was checked by a professional? Is your electric
blanket getting worn and is it still safe?
If your heating system uses a chimney or flue you should ensure they are kept
clean and well maintained.
If you use a gas powered system, did you know that every year about 14 people
in the UK die from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by gas appliances and
flues which have not been properly installed or maintained. Many others also
suffer ill health. It is recommended that you should have your gas appliances
checked at least every 12 months by a qualified person who also holds an
appropriate licence.
Remember when using electric heaters not to overload sockets.
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Now that your home is ready how about yourself?
Have you had your flu injection? What about vitamin D? Discuss these with your
GP or health specialist.
Use a wheelchair? Then get the tire pressures checked regularly as the
pressure goes down as the temperature drops.
FREE WORKSHOP - FAMILY COURT ‘Navigating’ through the changes.
These seminars will give practioners valuable knowledge on how to support their
clients, break down barriers and empower our vulnerable families.
Social Service Providers Aotearoa and Ebborn Law are inviting providers who
deal with domestic violence and the wider social services and government sector
to a workshop to review the changes to the Family Justice System
Tuesday, 12 May 2015
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cromwell & Districts Presbyterian Church Hall
10 Elspeth Street, Cromwell
Introduced by Merrin Gill
Presented by Erin Ebborn
Wednesday 13 May 2015
Noon – 4:oop.m.
Otago Museum – Barclay Theatre
419 Great King Street, Dunedin
Introduced by Paul Hooper
Presented by Erin Ebborn
Followed by an opportunity to network. Tea, coffee and excellent scones
provided
REGISTER NOW… it’s free (but space is limited)!
Website - http://sspa.org.nz/registration
Email - events@sspa.org.nz
Find out more about…
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Information useful for social service practitioners
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How changes to the Care of Children Act have rolled-out
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The role of lawyers in the Family Court
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An update on the Family Dispute Resolution Service
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New measures around domestic violence, vulnerable children and victims
of violence
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A free resource for parents considering the Family Court
Proudly sponsored by Social Service Providers Aotearoa Inc. and Ebborn Law
Limited
Opening Doors Just Got Easier for Everyone!
“Great Grips” make opening a door with a round door handle so much easier.
Slip on quickly - Better grip for weak hands
Great Grips are available from C1 South Ltd. Check out their web site and
YouTube Clip http://www.c1south.co.nz/shop/gripping-aids/109-great-grips.html
The patented release button on SUMO means you can switch between walking
stick, reacher and travel modes with ease, and the nifty magnet on the foot can
be used to pick up dropped keys, coins, hairpins and much more.
Even different heights are no problem with the two different models (short and
tall) both with adjustable heights.
To see the videos of the Sumo walking stick in action or to make further enquiries
go to SUMO – Supporting Mobility’s website:
http://www.supportingmobility.com/
The Four Star Golf Cruiser
The Four Star Golf Cruiser is a state of the art electric personal vehicle. It has
been designed and built with golf in mind. Small, nimble, light & powerful, the
Four Star Golf Cruiser allows golfers to cruise around the fairways and greens
with ease and comfort. Giving individual golfers the opportunity to remain mobile
and increase their speed of play.
http://www.electricvehiclesenzed.co.nz/
Register now for a FREE 45 minute New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
Taster Classes
Have fun learning signs you can use every day with your friends, colleagues and
family!
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To celebrate NZSL Week 2014 (Monday 4th to Sunday 10th May 2015!), Deaf
Aotearoa is giving schools, healthcare professionals, businesses and
organisations the opportunity to get a taste of NZSL during the month of May.
Learn some introductory NZSL in a fun way. For businesses and organisations,
it’s a great team building activity and for schools, a great way to hook kids into
discovering more!
Your participation will improve the access, advancement and awareness of Deaf
people in New Zealand and contribute to celebrating NZSL, one of New
Zealand’s official languages.
To register go to the link:
https://deafaotearoa.wufoo.com/forms/z180f6wn1h1cdke/
Introducing The World’s Most Versatile Walking Stick
The SUMO (Supporting Mobility) walking stick is unique in that it is a two-in-one
walking stick and reacher
The SUMO provides you with a walking stick with a claw that can be used to pick
up dropped objects—everything from pills, keys, wallets to TV remotes.
Something for the Future - Robotics Experts Developing 'Smart Trousers'
That May Someday Replace Wheelchairs, Stairlifts
The disabled and elderly who have problems with their mobility may soon have a
new option that could help them move around. A team of robotics experts from
the U.K is developing a version of the "Wrong Trousers," which was depicted by
Wallace and Gromit.
In the 1993 stop-motion animated short film "The Wrong Trousers" directed by
Nick Park, Wallace was trapped in a pair of "Techno Trousers." The smart pants,
which was formerly owned by NASA, carried him off to steal a prized diamond.
The idea of a smart trouser could well be used in helping individuals who are
weak and have difficulty moving.
Jonathan Rossiter, from the University of Bristol who is part of the team
developing the technology said that the project is the first time that soft robotics
technology is being used for addressing many healthcare and rehabilitation
needs in a single wearable device.
He pointed out that many of the existing devices that individuals who have
mobility problems typically use can cause or even worsen certain health
conditions the likes of poor blood circulation, vulnerability to falls and skin
pressure damage.
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Rossiter said that wearable soft robotics may alleviate many of these problems
and at the same time reduce the cost of healthcare.
"Wearable soft robotics has the potential to improve many of these problems and
reduce healthcare costs at the same time too," Rossiter said.
The close-fitting smart trouser will make use of artificial muscles that will assist
those who have mobility problems and could eventually replace stairlifts and
wheelchairs, which are currently being used by the disabled and frail elderly to
help them move around.
The artificial muscles used by this so called "intelligent clothing" are made up of
smart materials and reactive molecules with plastic-like property that can exert
great forces. Control systems will likewise be incorporated and these will monitor
the person who uses clothing and work with the natural muscles of the body to
provide assistance when required.
The system could provide the additional strength a disabled person needs to
move between sitting and standing, help vulnerable individuals avoid falls and
make climbing stairs easier. The £2 million project, which is set to start in July
and will take three years, is part of a funding program aimed at supporting the
development of devices for assistive and rehabilitative purposes
By Rhodi Lee,
Tech Times | February 24, 7:56 AM
Memo from Southern District Health Board Re:
South Community
Mental Health Team Relocation to Wakari Hospital
Memorandum
To:
All agencies with links to the South Community Mental Health Team
From: Richard Mooney, Clinical Nurse Manager, South Community Mental
Health Team
Date:
Re:
8th April 2015.
South Community Mental Health Team Relocation to Wakari Hospital
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The South Community Mental Health Team will relocate from its current
premises at 599 Princes Street, Dunedin to the Wakari Hospital site, from the
week commencing 18th May 2015.
•
The basis for the shift is that a number of years ago the DHB made the
decision to maximise use of its own facilities rather than lease premises unless
there were compelling reasons to do so. In 2014 suitable space became
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available at Helensburgh House due to the Southern District Health Board no
longer holding the contract for Behaviour Support Services.
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As part of the shift we have negotiated with other services that are
community based to develop more collaborative ways of working and delivering
services out in communities. This includes outpatient appointments being
delivered in the community. We are working very hard to provide a one sector
approach with providers working together to make a difference rather than in
isolation to each other. This planning is consistent with some of the core
strategies underpinning Raise Hope – Hapaite Tumanako” the Southern DHB
Mental Health and Addiction Strategic Plan 2012-2015.
•
We have engaged with service users and family members as planning for
this move has progressed. Service Users will also have the option of using the
free Wakari shuttle service to transport them to and from Dunedin Public hospital
for their appointments.
•
We acknowledge that operating from the Wakari Hospital site is a change
that may present some challenges. Please be assured we will closely monitor the
situation and constructively respond to any issues that arise.
•
Please feel free to contact Richard Mooney, Clinical Nurse Manager on 03
471 8475 or email southcmht@southerndhb.govt.nz if you have any queries or
concerns.
As of 18th May 2015, the South Community Mental Health Team will be based
at;
Helensburgh House, 1st floor
Wakari Hospital
371 Taieri Road
Telephone. 03 4769660
Free phone 0800 443366
Facsimile. 03 4769661
Email.southcmht@southerndhb.govt.nz
CRASCH3 - Protective Headgear for People with Special Needs
Removable Protective Inserts
The hat is 100% Acrylic. It not only looks good, but offers protection from the
elements. The protective inserts are designed to be easily removed and reinserted. It's a stylish hat to wear with, or without, the protective inserts.
Impact – Resistant Hat – How It Work
The outer layer of the six inserts are composed of an extremely strong
polycarbonate plastic, the same material used to make bulletproof glass. The
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inner layers are composed of neoprene rubber, the same skin-friendly material
used in making wet suits. The inner layer of neoprene rubber has trapped air in
the rubber itself, and also in the larger air chambers. These air chambers help
cushion the impact, and help spread the force of the impact over the entire
protective insert.
Endorsements of the CRASCH3 Beannie:
“My son loves his beanie and it's saved him many times! Even though it's not
designed specially for Epilepsy. His seizures make him fall and this has been the
biggest blessing having the Crasche beanies!!” – Shannon
“Thank you for designing and making your excellent product at such a good
price. I am a pediatric neurologist and help children with autism (not looking
where they are going at times and epilepsy (falls) and Chiari (bad if they get
concussion).
This child had concussions so often due to a combination of not looking where he
was going, constant motion, poor balance, and a big head, that the was having
repeated vomiting with weight loss. Since he bought the CRASCH3 he has not
had a concussion. He further is willing to keep it on and it does not make him
look ‘special’.” – Diane
“Hi, I got the hat last night. It’s awesome! Thank you so much. If I may make
one suggestion: you should have more customization available… like with
different fabrics and patterns. I see that you have a special needs alert on your
website. I have severe, intractable epilepsy and willing to be a spokesman and
represent it for the great device it is. I’ve been forced to wear a helmet now just
about 24 hours a day (except when sleeping) and THIS HAT is super comfy and
my NEW CHOICE!” – David “DJ”
CRASCH3 beanies are available from:
Delloch Ltd, 42 Bruntwood Drive RD2 Tauranga 3172 New Zealand
Freephone: 0800 433 55 624, Phone: +64 7 548 0398, Fax: +64 7 548 093
$79 incl GST plus P&P
The Soft Wheel has finally arrived in New Zealand
Soft Wheel - Wheel Reinvented
The Soft wheel incorporates a selective suspension mechanism that acts only
when an impact above a certain threshold is encountered. The threshold is preset according to user requirements and is easily changeable.
“I was fortunate to trial a pair and found them really great. I am an active
wheelchair user who regularly bounces up and down kerbs and found these
wheels really great. There was hardly any jolt.” – John Marrable
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In normal ride on standard floors or pavements, the suspension mechanism
remains static with the wheels feeling and performing like a normal rigid wheel.
However, when encountering an impact caused by an obstacle the suspension
mechanism comes into play.
This causes a shift of the wheel’s hub from its previously central location and
develops a cushioning effect that dramatically absorbs and lessens the impact
transferred to the rider.
I recommend that if you are active and like getting out and about contact the
team at Mobility Solutions Centre on 0800 924 247 to give the Softwheels a trial.
AbleAxcess Modular Ramping Specialists
The latest product from Able Access are “Easy Axcess Ramps”.
The Easy Access portable ramps are the ultimate solution in portable ramping.
They are lightweight and durable making them great to take with you.
Available in three sizes:
25mm x 150mm x 200mm
50mm x 150mm x 250mm
100mm x 250mm x 400mm
Check out the able access web site for their complete range
www.ableaxcess.co.nz
or contact Mobility Solutions Centre 0800 924 247, the local agent.
Convert your Wheelchair into a Powered Chair
There are two models available in N.Z. that clip onto your wheelchair and convert
it into power.
“Triride”
To give the “Triride” a trial contact the team at Mobility Solutions Centre 0800
924 247
“Firefly – Go Twice as Fast”
“The Firefly is an electric handcycle that snaps on to your wheelchair. Go twice
as fast and twice as far as a power wheelchair!”
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For further information or to arrange a trial contact: Wheel World Products
Quentin Smith quentin@wheelworld.co.nz www.wheelworld.co.nz
Have Trouble holding playing Cards?
Check out the Doubleton Cardholders. Designed and made by persons with
limited hand function. Takes standard or large playing cards.
Contact: Suzanne Hollick suzanne@doubletoncardholders.co.nz or 03 9292362 /
027 4787 408. Check out their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doubleton-Cardholders/662779383816199
U – Step II – Walking Stabilizer
Designed specifically for neurological conditions
The U-Step 2 Walking Stabilizer was designed specifically to address the unique
needs of those with various neurological conditions, including: Parkinson's
Disease, ALS, Stroke, PSP, Multiple Sclerosis, Brain Injuries, Balance Disorders,
Laser and Sound Cueing Module
Primarily used by those with Parkinson’s freezing but can be used by anyone
with an irregular gait pattern.
The Laser and Sound Cueing Module can help you get started, normalise your
walking and increase your stride. Simply press the red button on the handlebar
and a bright red laser line is projected on the floor for you to step over. Turn on
the sound feature to set a beat pattern for walking speed.
Also available is the Laser Cane. The Laser Cane projects a bright red line
across your path. The laser beam is a safe, obstacle-free visual cue, which can
enable Parkinson's patients and others to break 'freezing' episodes and increase
stride length.
For further information go to http://www.ustep.co.nz/
Limited by Physical Injury or Disability? - everyday made easier blog
An initiative from the School of Occupational Therapy at Otago Polytechnic
Tips and tricks to help you take part in what is important to you.
This site aims to make every day easier by giving you knowledge and tools for
planning your daily activities.
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You can personalise the information on this site to help you bring enjoyment and
balance to your day.
One last thing...
The information on this site is not meant to replace expert advice, and is not
aimed at helping with cognitive problems.
If you are having trouble coping with all you need to do, refer yourself to an
occupational therapist, or ask your GP to make the referral.
http://everydaymadeeasier.blogspot.co.nz/
Alber Twion Wheels - Power Assisted Wheelchair Wheels
TWION
The Twion power assist offers new freedom and maximum independence. The
electric motors equipped with leading-edge digital electronics, provide you with
extra power for every propelling movement. The sensor fitted to the hand rim
calculates precisely the right amount of support.
The silent direct drive ensures high agility and simple handling. You are actively
on the move and reach your destination quickly, efficiently and calmly.
Mobility Plus
The Mobility Plus package communications with an Android-enabled
smartphone. The app provides information on battery state, distance travelled,
and maps your journey. The app can also help diagnose potential faults and
make contact with the service team.
Twion is suitable for almost every standard active wheelchair. This means that
existing, individually adapted wheelchairs can normally continue to be used. This
is made possible by a small, lightweight bracket that is simply fitted to the
wheelchair frame.
The user-friendly quick release axle system ensures flexible interworking of the
manual wheels and the Twion wheels. This means that the required drive type is
available at all times: manual or with E-Power!
Stockist in NZ are Invacare 0800 468 222 www.invacare.co.nz
Bio Pro Cleaning Products
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Bio Pro NZ Ltd is a division of C1 South that supplies a range of natural,
chemical free products from the US manufacturer Bio-Pro Research. There
products use bio-enzymatic technology with USDA approved ingredients to
provide natural cleaning solutions that work.
Such products include:
Mini LED Urine Finder
The Mini LED Urine Finder by Bio-Pro Research is the ideal tool for locating
hard-to-find urine and other bodily fluids. Most urine deposits are invisible to the
naked eye and unless the urine can be found, the odour will continue to be a
problem. The Urine Finder is ultra-bright and is designed to fluoresce uric acid,
taking the guess work out of cleaning.
Urine Off Odour and Stain Remover
Urine Off Multi-Purpose Odour and Stain Remover by Bio-Pro Research is a
chemical free urine cleaner that uses high-performance bio-enzymatic
technology specifically formulated for the removal of human and pet urine. Made
with USDA certified ingredients. Available in two sizes.
Urine Off is ideal for domestic and commercial use and can be used on new and
old stains, fabrics, furniture, mattresses, carpet, flooring, tiles, toilets,
wheelchairs, litter boxes and much more, making it the ‘must have’ cleaning
product for your home or workplace.
You can view tips and advice, specials, full range of products, and much more on
www.biopronz.co.nz
E-Move Power Assist Wheel
Freedom and Independence for all wheelchair users
Why E-Move?
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Extend the Users ability to propel a manual chair
Saves in costs and time re-making/resizing seating
Allows the user access to greater range of environments
Saves on modifications to homes for Powered Mobility
Easier to Transport and use anywhere
E-Move is the New Zealand’s only push rim controlled drive unit that can
be adapted to the user’s specific needs. The user simply has to push the
chair normally and E-Move senses the users strengths and adjusts
automatically.
With one click of the programming software, E-Move recommends the
optimum settings for the user. Small adjustments can be easily made to
the parameters if required.
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The “second driver profile” option allows users to easily change the
product’s driving characteristics. Any changes that the user needs can be
added, not just “indoor” or “outdoor”
A range of up to 18km offering users the freedom to travel longer distance
as well as providing the peace of mind that their battery is not going to fail
Designed for indoor and outdoor use
5 wheel sizes ranging from 20″ - 26″ means keeping the same balance
points to maintain function with independence.
New Zealand Stockists:
DME – Durable Medical Equipment Ltd;
Head Office: 181A McLeod Road, Te Atatu, Auckland. PO Box 12 1454,
Henderson, Auckland. FreePhone: 0800 115 222 Email: sales@dme.co.nz
Websire: www.dme.co.nz
Bodyelectrix Powerchair – MAX
Designed and made in New Zealand, the MAX is a fully seated Segway PT
based cross-terrain mobility solution.
It is not for everyone, but if you meet the criteria the Max could be the liberating
and exciting mobility solution for you.
Make no mistake, this is a machine you have to be involved with - you can’t just
stay static and be ferried around like a package! While it’s easy to ride, you
need to meet some minimum requirements:
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You must have some upper body movement
Full control of at least one arm and hand
Be able to transfer to and from your standard wheelchair
weigh more than 35kg, and LESS THAN 100kg
Call 0800 600 155 for info
http://www.bodyelectric.co.nz/bodyelectricpowerchair.html
Daily Living Aids available from the Disability Information Service’s office.
Thank You for Your Funding Support:
Ministry of Health / NZ Lotteries Grants Board / COGS / Otago Community Trust
/ Lion Foundation / A.C.E. Shacklock Charitable Trust
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Disability information Service, Community House, 301 Moray Place, Dunedin.
Phone (03) 471 6152 or 0800 693 342, Fax (03) 471 6159, email
dis.dn@xtra.co.nz, web: www.disabilityinfo.co.nz.
The views and comments expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those
of the Editor or Disability Information Service
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