Technology

At the Boston Home, where all residents are in wheelchairs, MIT is working on manuevering wheelchairs by voice commands. Resident David Hatch (rt) speaks with MIT grad student William Li who has been working with Hatch on the process. Boston Globe/John Tlumacki /Landov

At The Boston Home technology is used deliberately to increase residents’ independence and quality of life and to improve the quality of care. The building and campus are set up for residents to move independently in their customized power wheelchairs. Over the last several years staff members from The Boston Home have worked with students and faculty from MIT on a number of research projects that enhance life for our residents, including a robotic wheelchair. Our residents’ and staff members’ participation in these projects also contributes to knowledge and practical solutions for the broader community of people living with severe physical disabilities.

Technology, applied intelligently to maximize mobility, independence and engagement, can remove limitations and barriers to achieving goals and living life more fully.

Because of the level of disability the residents have, it makes technology all the more crucial. Technology can help residents with mobility, mental stimulation, access, and the ability to communicate, which in turn helps combat the social isolation many with progressive illnesses feel.

Input for our technology has come from Therapists, Nursing, Social Workers, Psychologist, Residents, Administration, Board Members, collaborating Academic Institutions and Vendors to promote maximum independence in all areas of a resident’s life. We take into consideration both the internal and external elements of a resident’s life. This promotes comprehensive evaluations for all residents to find methodology to access their wants and needs.