Photo: Dr Elena Seminati and Alex Lewis looking at a screen. Dr Elena Seminati holds a scanner; Copyright: Andrew Dunne / University of Bath

Andrew Dunne / University of Bath

Assistive tech project to enhance prosthetic sockets and speed-up rehabilitation for amputees

29.03.2023

With a new technique for people who need prostheses after amputations, the University of Bath is developing a technology that allows patients and their families to photograph the remaining stump. The aim is to replicate the results clinicians in specialist clinics can achieve with high-end 3D scanners, but remotely and at a fraction of the cost.
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Image: Two basketball players in white and black jerseys fight for the ball; Copyright: Ottobock

Ottobock

Ottobock is Official Supporter of INVICTUS GAMES DÜSSELDORF 2023

27.03.2023

The Ottobock company is supporting the INVICTUS GAMES 2023 in Düsseldorf on site with a technical service for prostheses, orthoses and wheelchairs. In close proximity to the training and competition venues, Ottobock will be on hand with its international team and over 100 years of experience in medical technology.
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Photo: Rong Xia at night with a bicycle on a bridge; Copyright: Xiaxia

Xiaxia

Rong Xia – That's how she rolls

22.03.2023

An unexpected amputation completely changed Rong Xia's life. But she took this as an opportunity to deal with the topic professionally and to found her own company for the development of prostheses. What her goals are and how else she rolls, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: Front view of the NANO S folding wheelchair; Copyright: MEYRA GmbH

MEYRA GmbH

MEYRA presents the world's first folding wheelchair NANO S

22.03.2023

The company MEYRA has produced the first folding wheelchair named NANO S. It is a folding wheelchair with open frame and removable leg supports, which stands out with its lightness and stability.
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Image: Denise walks along the water with the smart leg orthosis C-Brace; Copyright: Ottobock

Ottobock

Ottobock: a new lease of life with an app-controlled leg orthosis

15.03.2023

Denise was 29 years old when she underwent disc surgery – a seemingly harmless procedure. However, the surgery didn't go as smoothly as planned and when she woke up from anaesthesia, she could no longer feel her right thigh. The diagnosis: incomplete paraplegia. The world's first smart leg orthosis, the C-Brace® has given the mother of two new mobility and improved her quality of life.
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Image: A paralyzed individual walks up the stairs to visit a friend's home using her ReWalk Personal Exoskeleton; Copyright: ReWalk Robotics Ltd.

ReWalk Robotics Ltd.

ReWalk Exoskeleton receives FDA clearance for stairs and curbs

13.03.2023

ReWalk, a leading provider of innovative technologies that enable mobility and wellness in rehabilitation and daily life for individuals with neurological conditions, announced that its innovative ReWalk Personal Exoskeleton technology has received clearance from the FDA for use on stairs and curbs in the US, making it the only personal exoskeleton to receive FDA clearance for this indication.
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Image: An elderly woman sits in a wheelchair outside; Copyright: oneinchpunchphotos

oneinchpunchphotos

Lower fracture risk for older wheelchair users

13.03.2023

Being a frail elderly person and using a wheelchair involves a substantially reduced risk of fractures, a University of Gothenburg study shows. More prescriptions for wheelchairs may result.
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Photo: Frank Lackner in an exhibition hall with a leather bag around his neck and looking at the camera; Copyright: private

privat

Frank Lackner – That's how he rolls

08.03.2023

Frank Lackner fights for more accessibility in public spaces. In 1991, he and a friend founded the International Citizens' Initiative for Wheelchair Users' Interests, or INTERROLLI in short. What improvements he would like to see in disabled toilets and how else he rolls, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: An elderly man sits in a wheelchair in the door frame and holds on to the door handle; Copyright: Showerbuddy

Showerbuddy

5 Ways to make a home easier for elderly people

08.03.2023

The transition from elderly people being fully independent to needing a bit of help is often gradual. Sometimes the signs aren’t obvious nor are these people actively seeking out help. But in order to keep them safe in their own home, we need to proactively take some steps to make daily tasks easier.
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Image: Doctor tracking the evolution of the patient's brain on the tablet in a modern laboratory; Copyright: DC_Studio

DC_Studio

Neural prosthesis uses brain activity to decode speech

06.03.2023

Researchers from HSE University and the Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry have developed a machine learning model that can predict the word about to be uttered by a subject based on their neural activity recorded with a small set of minimally invasive electrodes.
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Image: Children and young adults with prosthetic legs at the Talent Days; Copyright: MikaVolkmann

MikaVolkmann

Talent days 2023: Introducing children and young people with prostheses to sports

06.03.2023

World record holder Johannes Floors has made it his mission to introduce children and young people with prostheses to the world of sport. That's why he is devoting three days of his time to the youngest at the “Talent Days” in order to work with Ottobock technicians to fit and extensively test sports prostheses.
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Image: Lukas sits in his new Ford Tourneo Connect with the Space Drive driving and steering system and two joysticks; Copyright: PARAVAN

PARAVAN

"Mobile tailor-made suit" by PARAVAN: flexible operating devices for vehicles

27.02.2023

Lukas drives his new Ford Tourneo Connect with the Space Drive driving and steering system and two joysticks – one for accelerator/brake and one for steering. But every now and then, someone else sits behind the steering wheel who doesn't need these input devices. Thanks to a resourceful solution from PARAVAN's technicians, this can be realized within a minute.
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Image: A young woman, a middle-aged woman with a dog, a senior citizen with a walker, a middle-aged man and a boy go for a walk together; Copyright: Drive Medical GmbH & Co. KG

Drive Medical GmbH & Co. KG

Why exercise is so important and how it can be promoted

27.02.2023

Stress, unhealthy nutrition, lack of exercise – our modern lifestyle has many negative effects on our health. But none of these problems is as easy to solve as the latter. Because all it takes is a little nudge to get moving again. But what to do when movements become more difficult and sometimes even impossible with increasing age?
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Image: Double-sided and standard-compliant wall handrail in a residential complex; Copyright: Flexo-Handlaufsysteme GmbH

Flexo-Handlaufsysteme GmbH

Tangible safety: self-determination thanks to Flexo handrail systems

23.02.2023

Code-compliant handrail systems provide safety and make stairs accessible and usable for more people. They help reduce fall risk, facilitate more mobility, and allow people to gain access to all rooms. Thanks to its work with older adults and people with disabilities, Flexo-Handlaufsysteme GmbH knows about potential barriers and has made it its mission to promote the self-determination of people.
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Photo: Annika Schröder is holding a badminton bat and smiles into the camera; Copyright: Sandra Lange

Sandra Lange

Annika Schröder – That's how she rolls

22.02.2023

Accessibility plays a key role for Annika Schröder. She sees a need to catch up in many areas – from public transport to bureaucracy. The 25-year-old competitive athlete has the support of her friends and family. Why she would like to see more determination from politicians and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: Alexander Klems sits in his wheel loader and operates it with his hands; Copyright: PARAVAN

PARAVAN

Reintegration into working life: Operating a wheel loader via joystick

15.02.2023

Alexander Klems has been driving wheel loaders for 21 years. In 2019, everything was going to be different. He got injured. He could no longer operate the accelerator pedal of his Hitachi ZW 330 wheel loader, which he almost always has to step on when loading construction materials. Another solution was needed, which was found at PARAVAN thanks to the Space Drive drive-by-wire system.
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Photo: an elderly couple plays Jenga at a table; Copyright: envato/LightFieldStudios

envato/LightFieldStudios

January 2023: Dementia - aids and activities for everyday life

13.02.2023

The diagnosis of dementia hits those affected hard, as there is currently no cure for the disease. However, with the help of a good therapy that provides many incentives and the right aids, dementia can be alleviated for those affected and their relatives.
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Photo: an elderly couple plays Jenga at a table; Copyright: envato/LightFieldStudios

envato/LightFieldStudios

Dementia - aids and activities for everyday life

13.02.2023

The diagnosis of dementia hits those affected hard, as there is currently no cure for the disease. However, with the help of a good therapy that provides many incentives and the right aids, dementia can be alleviated for those affected and their relatives.
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Image: A man demonstrates a soft robotic wearable for upper arm and shoulder; Copyright: Walsh Lab, Harvard SEAS

Walsh Lab, Harvard SEAS

Soft robotic wearable restores arm function for people with ALS

13.02.2023

Some 30,000 people in the U.S. are affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a neurodegenerative condition that damages cells in the brain and spinal cord necessary for movement. Now, a team of researchers has developed a soft robotic wearable capable of significantly assisting upper arm and shoulder movement in people with ALS.
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Image: A shower chair stands next to and in a bathtub; Copyright: Showerbuddy

Showerbuddy

Showerbuddy explains how to usefully upgrade your shower chair

13.02.2023

Shower chairs are most certainly not built equal. Unfortunately in the mobility equipment industry there are many options that seem attractive in price but fail to do their main job properly: safely support a mobility impaired person. It’s very common for a family and their disabled loved one to try different shower chairs over the course of their journey.
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Photo: Sad looking old man sitting in sesel leaning on his walking stick; Copyright: envato/LightFieldStudios

envato/LightFieldStudios

Living with dementia: practical tools make daily living easier

13.02.2023

Forgetfulness is often one of the first recognizable signs of dementia. In its early stages, the condition initially affects short-term memory and gradually progresses to more long-term memory loss. Yet there are many accompanying symptoms that make daily living for people with dementia challenging.
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Photo: Sebastian Stabler sitting in his wheelchair; Copyright: private

private

Sebastian Stabler – That's how he rolls

08.02.2023

Not just stand, but dance – that's what Sebastian Stabler would like to do. He is still waiting for the right assistive equipment. But the paraplegic 37-year-old already shows himself to be a sporty and active person. Why he would like to meet a certain bodybuilder and how he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Karina Sturm wears a black hat, which she holds with one hand. She smiles past the camera; Copyright: private

private

Karina Sturm – That's how she rolls

25.01.2023

Writing a book – a dream for many people. For Karina Sturm, it was a chance to accept her diagnosis. By giving advice, she wants to enable other people to do what she has managed to do herself: to become an active part of their own disease management and to live a self-determined life. How she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: A man shows how to use a personal lift in three pictures; Copyright: IndeeLift

IndeeLift

IndeeLift: Human lifting tools for greater independence

19.01.2023

IndeeLift offers human lifting tools that provide greater independence and safety for people with mobility impairment and their caregivers. It is a device that helps caregivers lift, transfer and transport patients in acute, post-acute, long-term and home care environments. At the same time, it can support people who live alone.
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Photo: Sascha Scholz looking into the camera, one eye closed; Copyright: private

private

Sascha Scholz – That's how he rolls

11.01.2023

Nowadays, mobility for many people with disabilities means being able to be self-determined in their own car. One prerequisite for this is a driver's license. Which detours and obstacles Sascha Scholz had to overcome to get his license, where he went on his subsequent European tour, and how he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: A teenage girl laughs while using the ichó therapy ball, which is currently glowing orange; Copyright: icho systems GmbH

icho systems GmbH

ichó: The smart therapy ball for home use

16.12.2022

Building communication, strengthening skills, and responding to individual needs – that is the goal of icho systems GmbH. To realize their vision, the team has developed the ichó therapy ball. It brings therapeutic measures and individual support to people's homes and can be used to promote cognition and motor activity.
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Photo: Kae Tran infront of a shelf with cameras. She leans onto a drawer; Copyright: Patrick Estebar

Patrick Estebar

Kae Tran – That's how she rolls

14.12.2022

Self-determined mobility is possible in Kae Tran's everyday life mainly through her walking stick. The aid has become her most important companion. What changes she would like to see in rollators and in society, what role mental health plays for her and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: A woman with dark short hair stands at a lectern. In the foreground, audience members can be seen out of focus; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Review of the forum presentations at REHACARE

12.12.2022

Exciting products and many presentations could be experienced at the expert forum PRODUCTS & NEWS @REHACARE and at the TREFFPUNKT REHACARE 2022. We have summarized what there was to discover in a review of the forums.
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Photo: View into the forum PRODUCTS & NEWS @REHACARE at REHACARE 2022; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

REHACARE 2022: Innovations and the latest news from the PRODUCTS & NEWS @REHACARE Expert Forum

12.12.2022

Humans have always been resourceful when it came to creating solutions to compensate for physical disabilities. In ancient Egypt, prosthetic devices for the big toe provided suppor. It’s anyone’s guess how well or badly their respective users could walk or eat with these tools. We know that they could not visit the REHACARE trade fair back in those days.
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Photo: Many visitors sit in the expert forum TREFFPUNKT REHACARE and listen to the speakers; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

TREFFPUNKT REHACARE 2022: Highlight topics from the expert forum

12.12.2022

TREFFPUNKT REHACARE is your central platform for lectures, panel discussions, and the exchange of information and experience. Topics included the digitization of the workplace and recreational environment, technical assistance and vocational rehabilitation with a focus on exoskeletons, job coaching, and rehabilitation for people living with long or post-COVID conditions.
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Photo: Victoria H. sitting in a wheelchair in front of a field; Copyright: private

privat

Victoria H. – That's how she rolls

30.11.2022

Victoria H. sees the world with more mindful eyes since she had to get to know herself and her body anew. However, she has retained her enthusiasm for sports and has found many new ways to practice it. What kind of role REHACARE plays in this, why straws are an important assistive device in her everyday life and what how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: girl sitting in a wheelchair by Wolturnus; Copyright: Wolturnus

Wolturnus

Assistive technology for children with disabilities: Wheelchairs promote mobility

30.11.2022

Mobility is key for overall child development. That is why children who have limited movement depend on getting the right wheelchair at an early stage to compensate for their disability and encourage participation. Manufacturers of pediatric wheelchairs are acutely aware of the important role they play in this setting. They showcased a wide variety of wheelchairs for children at REHACARE 2022.
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Photo: Girl sitting on the floor with a dog. She wears the Exopulse Mollii Suit; Copyright: Ottobock

Ottobock

Assistive technology for children with disabilities: Product variety promotes participation

30.11.2022

Children need room to roam, explore, and learn how to set and respect boundaries. Unfortunately, children with disabilities may encounter barriers when it comes to these life activities. Luckily, there is a myriad of assistive technology devices to face any obstacle: REHACARE 2022 showcased tools that ran the gamut from car seats, rehab buggies to standing mobility and movement devices.
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Photo: A woman and a man squat in front of children's seats. A doll lies in one seat; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Assistive devices for children and teenagers

30.11.2022

When it comes to assistive devices, there is one target group that needs special attention: children! Due to their size and motor development, they need special wheelchairs as well as other mobility and everyday aids. At REHACARE 2022, numerous exhibitors presented their new products especially for children and young people with disabilities.
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Image: A man in a hospital bed using THERA-Trainer bemo; Copyright: THERA-Trainer by medica Medizintechnik GmbH

THERA-Trainer by medica Medizintechnik GmbH

THERA-Trainer: Complete solution for gait rehabilitation

24.11.2022

The goal of THERA-Trainer by medica Medizintechnik GmbH is to make it easy for people with restricted mobility to regain their lost mobility. That is why the family company has designed professional therapeutic products and robotic assisted complete solutions for all phases of lower extremity rehabilitation.
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Photo: Ricky sitting in his wheelchair infront of a swimming pool; Copyright: private

private

Ricky – That's how he rolls

16.11.2022

His relationships with his family, friends and God not only make Ricky's day, but are also his most important tools in everyday life. And with his modified bus, wheelchair and walker, he is able to compensate well for his limitations. Which positive experiences he has already had, how the supply of aids could be optimized and how he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Saskia Melches smiling and sitting in her wheelchair on a ice skate ring; Copyright: Saskia Melches

Saskia Melches

Saskia Melches – That's how she rolls

02.11.2022

Various assistive devices and a team of assistants help Saskia Melches to manage her active everyday life. Whether in or out of her home, she wants to lead as self-determined a life as possible. How society and the assistive technology industry could support her, what the jungle of Peru is all about and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Rebecca Brunner sitting on a staircase, her protsthetic leg can be seen; Copyright: Rebecca Brunner

Rebecca Brunner

Rebecca Brunner – That's how she rolls

19.10.2022

Rebecca Brunner likes to take her life into her own hands and gives every day the chance to be the best. Her prosthetic leg helps her to always try out new things and overcome new challenges. What she wants from her fellow human beings, what is particularly important to her in the assistive technology industry and how she rolls otherwise, the social media manager tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: The soon-to-be-released Revolve Air wheelchair – once in folded and once in unfolded state; Copyright: Andrea Mocellin

Andrea Mocellin

Accessible traveling: foldable wheelchair by Revolve Mobility

18.10.2022

How can traveling become more accessible and more self-determined for wheelchair users – especially when traveling by plane or taking a cab? This is the question Andrea Mocellin wanted to address when he started inventing Revolve Air. His solution: a wheelchair with foldable wheels and a foldable frame.
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Photo: Caregiver explains therapy plan to elderly person using a tablet; Copyright: Rido81

Rido81

Brilliantly digital: tech applications in physio and rehab

12.10.2022

Increasingly, manufacturers are offering digital solutions for different needs in the fields of rehabilitation and physiotherapy – be it customized training programs or fun exercise games. In this Topic of the Month, you can find out what innovative options are already available today and what can still be expected for the future.
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Photo: Nurse kneels with tablet in hand next to a seated patient; Copyright: DigiRehab GmbH

DigiRehab GmbH

Quo vadis, digitalization in rehabilitation and physiotherapy?

12.10.2022

Usability, autonomy, modernity – that's what digital components should add to rehabilitation and physiotherapy. This benefits both patients and professionals according to manufacturers of new technologies and software. Conversations with experts about the current situation and the future reveal how the industry is dynamic and ever evolving.
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Photo: Svenja in her wheelchair smiling at the camera; Copyright: Svenjas Welt

Svenjas Welt

Svenja – That's how she rolls

05.10.2022

Getting used to an assistive device is not always easy. That's how Svenja felt about her wheelchair at first. But now she appreciates how much freedom and flexibility it gives her in everyday life. Which other aid she thinks should be invented and which special wheelchair she once discovered at REHACARE, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Antonio Hoempler doing downhill skateboarding; Copyright: Antonio Hoempler

Antonio Hoempler

Antonio Hoempler – That's how she rolls

21.09.2022

Whether it's festivals or downhill skateboarding – Antonio Hoempler loves action and adaptive sports. He also enjoys riding his handbike. With the support of friends and assistive devices, he can pursue his many interests. How he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: People in the entrance area of the REHACARE trade fair; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

September 2022: REHACARE highlights in 2022

12.09.2022

It's finally that time again, REHACARE 2022 will take place live on site again! The joy is equally great among visitors and exhibitors, finally assistive devices can be tried out again and personal conversations can take place. Since we know that you can hardly wait to visit the trade fair, we have summarized some highlights for you in the Topic of the Month!
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Photo: People in the entrance area of the REHACARE trade fair; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

REHACARE highlights in 2022

12.09.2022

It's finally that time again, REHACARE 2022 will take place live on site again! The joy is equally great among visitors and exhibitors, finally assistive devices can be tried out again and personal conversations can take place. Since we know that you can hardly wait to visit the trade fair, we have summarized some highlights for you in the Topic of the Month!
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Photo: a man with blond hair in a blue suit smiles at the camera; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf/Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf/Constanze Tillmann

"Touching and trying out products are at the core of REHACARE"

12.09.2022

It's finally back! After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, REHACARE is returning to Messe Düsseldorf’s exhibition halls. Hannes Niemann, Project Director for REHACARE, made it possible for this to become a reality again. In this interview, we talked about his goals and personal highlights of this year's REHACARE.
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Photo: People get advice at a stand at REHACARE; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf/Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf/Constanze Tillmann

Choose, touch, and try out products – experience REHACARE live and in-person again in 2022

12.09.2022

You’re probably familiar with this scenario: You order a fabulous piece of clothing or shoes online, only to be terribly disappointed when the item arrives but doesn’t fit. It’s an all-too-familiar problem for people with disabilities who depend on these resources. Whether it’s a mobility aid or adapted car, the device must be customized to fit the needs of the individual to provide support.
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Photo: Isabelle Sievers holding a phone with her prothetic arm; Copyright: Isabelle Sievers

Isabelle Sievers

Isabelle Sievers – That's how she rolls

07.09.2022

A prosthetic arm has given Isabelle Sievers a lot of quality of life and self-confidence. In just three years, she has overcome many lows and continued her self development. Her strong will and perseverance have helped her to achieve even the seemingly impossible. In our interview, she emphasizes that everyone has their own strengths and can achieve anything.
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Image: The new Genny model is shrouded by a dark cloth. Only the silhouette shines through slightly; Copyright: Genny Mobility

Genny Mobility

Genny’s self-balancing and two wheeled wheelchair gets an upgrade – revealed at REHACARE 2022

01.09.2022

Inspired by the self-balancing Segway, Genny Mobility developed a wheelchair equivalent. What started as a newbie on the mobility aids market, now is ready for its third generation. The new wheelchair will be revealed in two weeks at this year’s REHACARE. Francesca Belotti allows for a little glimpse into what we can expect.
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Photo: a wheelchair is loaded into a car at REHACARE. Visitors watch; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

August 2022: No way too far – mobile by car

29.08.2022

Not everyone likes cars and for some they are an environmental sin. But for people with disabilities, they can be helpful and represent mobility, participation and new opportunities. After all, anyone with a mobility impairment doesn't always want to be dependent on others. In the Topic of the Month, we show examples of vehicle conversions that provide more freedom.
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Photo: a man in a blue car with wheelchair loading system; Copyright: Veigel GmbH + Co. KG

Veigel GmbH + Co. KG

Electromobility: technology support for people with disabilities

29.08.2022

For persons with reduced mobility, participation in social and civic life is often only an option if the conditions are right: Wheelchair users need accessible designs to train stations or bus stops to use these modes of transportation. Unfortunately, many places still lack accessible accommodations, which is why many people rely on cars to ensure their mobility and transportation.
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Photo: RVs parked in front of a lakeshore at sunset; Copyright: CreativeNature_nl/envato.

CreativeNature_nl/envato

Living a self-determined life: accessible travel around the world

29.08.2022

Get in your camper to get away: Each year, thousands of Germans make this dream come true as is evidenced by the number of current new registrations of camper vans, travel trailers and recreational vehicles. Standard models often include many practical features - but unfortunately, accessible solutions are still few and far between.
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Photo: a wheelchair is loaded into a car at REHACARE. Visitors watch; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

No way too far – mobile by car

29.08.2022

Not everyone likes cars and for some they are an environmental sin. But for people with disabilities, they can be helpful and represent mobility, participation and new opportunities. After all, anyone with a mobility impairment doesn't always want to be dependent on others. In the Topic of the Month, we show examples of vehicle conversions that provide more freedom.
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Photo: Katja Tefiki while paragliding; Copyright: Katja Tefiki

Katja Tefiki

Katja Tefiki – That's how she rolls

24.08.2022

Katja Tefiki had to completely reorganize her everyday life after she became paraplegic. She got her driver's license and today her car and wheelchair are her indispensable companions. She loves long car rides and paragliding is also one of her passions. How she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Two professionals are giving advice about pediatric auxiliary aids at REHACARE; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

rehaKIND e. V.

Status quo of the pediatric auxiliary aids and services supply: challenges, successes, and ideas

18.08.2022

As children grow up and develop, their needs keep changing. If the response to their special needs for auxiliary aids and services isn’t quick and competent, it creates problems that could have been avoided at a systemic level, says Christiana Hennemann. rehaKINDis committed to improving the situation and giving constructive feedback to policymakers, the public and other important stakeholders.
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Photo: Tahina Andale smiling at the camera; Copyright: Tahina Andale

Tahina Andale

Tahina Andale – That's how she rolls

10.08.2022

Whether it's a cane or a walker, walking aids can make a significant contribution to greater mobility and a more self-determined life. Tahina Andale has also made this experience. Why the path to this realization was not always easy and what else has helped her to cope better with her chronic illness, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: a young man tests an exoskeleton by descending a staircase during REHACARE. Several people are indistinct in the background; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

July 2022: Exoskeletons for prevention and therapy

28.07.2022

Exoskeletons are constantly evolving and are increasingly finding their way into prevention and therapy. In this month's Topic of the Month, we look at how they help protect people from physical harm at work and how they can be used in therapy!
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Photo: a young man tests an exoskeleton by descending a staircase during REHACARE. Several people are indistinct in the background; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Exoskeletons for prevention and therapy

28.07.2022

Exoskeletons are constantly evolving and are increasingly finding their way into prevention and therapy. In this month's Topic of the Month, we look at how they help protect people from physical harm at work and how they can be used in therapy!
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Photo: a man stands with his arms outstretched in a factory hall to present an exoskeleton on his back; Copyright: Ottobock

Ottobock

Preventing work-related injuries: exoskeletons curb repetitive stress injuries

28.07.2022

Lifting boxes above head height, repositioning a bedridden patient, or assembling heavy components in production - many work-related activities go along with monotonous postures or repetitive lifting. Exoskeletons can reduce strain and prevent long-term musculoskeletal injuries and illnesses.
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Photo: a person helps another person wearing an exoskeleton; Copyright: Ekso Bionics Europe GmbH

Ekso Bionics Europe GmbH

Exoskeletons in rehabilitation

28.07.2022

A stroke or an accident are life-changing events since many survivors experience limitations of mobility. Not all patients regain full mobility with subsequent rehabilitation. Some physical restrictions may persist, making adaptive equipment and assistive technologies necessary. Exoskeleton use in rehabilitation shows promise for better treatment results.
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Photo: Alain Zanchetta smiling at the camera; Copyright: Alain Zanchetta

Alain Zanchetta

Alain Zanchetta – That's how he rolls

27.07.2022

Alain Zanchetta is a fighter. He would have to overcome difficulties early on, but he has gained a lot of strength and confidence as a result. As a designer, he develops inclusive design products himself to help other people. At the same time, his job offers him the security and perspective he craves. At REHACARE.com he tells us how he rolls otherwise.
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Photo: A person wearing the Exopulse Mollii Suit hugs another person grinning broadly; Copyright: Ottobock

Ottobock

Spasticity Management: The New Exopulse Mollii Suit

26.07.2022

Reduces spasticity, relieves pain, improves mobility: The Exopulse Mollii Suit is the world’s first neuromodulation suit that enables people with neurological conditions to enjoy a more active daily lifestyle. Daniel Hublitz knows how the suit works and who can benefit from it. He knows about the demands and requirements the new assistive medical device must meet.
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Photo: A black and red robot arm pours a drink into a paper cup; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

June 2022: Daily living aids for people with disabilities

13.07.2022

Reaching for a bottle and opening it when you're thirsty or quickly making a sandwich when you're hungry. What many people take for granted can be a problem for people with disabilities. In these situations, analog or digital daily living aids can be used to maintain independence. Read more about this in the Topic of the Month!
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Photo: Bastian K. smiling at the camera; Copyright: Leben mit PEG

Leben mit PEG

Bastian K. – That's how he rolls

13.07.2022

Bastian K. is a summer person at heart. He enjoys spending time with family and friends. In doing so, the lack of accessibility often causes him more difficulties than the progressive muscle weakness he has been living with for many years. When he is not on the road, he writes about his "life with PEG" on his own blog. On REHACARE.com he tells us how he rolls otherwise.
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Photo: A speech computer is on display at REHACARE; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Digital assistive technologies: Modern tools to make life more accessible

13.07.2022

People with disabilities often rely on assistance in different ways. Whether it's speech computers, screen readers, i.e. software that vocalizes on-screen texts, or special power wheelchairs – what all assistance has in common here is that it works thanks to digital components.
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Photo: a person with the right hand in a plaster cast smears himself a roll with the help of his left hand and a special eating board; Copyright: Ornamin

Ornamin

Small things that have big benefits: daily living aids help make everyday life easier

27.06.2022

Opening a jar or getting on a bike to ride to the store: small things that many of us around the world do every day and tend to take for granted. But these activities are not a matter of course for everyone. Daily living aids can make a big difference to people with disabilities in making their lives easier.
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Photo: a black and red robot arm pours a drink into a paper cup; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf, Constanze Tillmann

Daily living aids for people with disabilities

27.06.2022

Reaching for a bottle and opening it when you're thirsty or quickly making a sandwich when you're hungry. What many people take for granted can be a problem for people with disabilities. In these situations, analog or digital daily living aids can be used to maintain independence. Read more about this in the Topic of the Month!
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Photo: Katharina Parafieva standing in a forest; Copyright: Liliya Krüger

Liliya Krüger

Katharina Parafieva – That's how she rolls

01.06.2022

Katharina Parafieva lost both legs in an accident. Since then, she has been living with a wheelchair and prostheses. Getting out of her comfort zone and thinking positively were the most important steps for her to actively participate in life again. She tells REHACARE.com what else is important to her.
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Photo: Beach wheelchair on the Caribbean beach; Copyright: Timo Hermann | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Timo Hermann | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

May 2022: Leisure, sports and travel

27.05.2022

For most people, the thought of water is associated with relaxation. A day at or on the sea, boating, swimming or water sports. But what of this is possible if you are in a wheelchair, for example? We can reveal a few things. Read more in our Topic of the Month!
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Photo: Beach wheelchair on the Caribbean beach; Copyright: Timo Hermann | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Timo Hermann | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Leisure, sports and travel

27.05.2022

For most people, the thought of water is associated with relaxation. A day at or on the sea, boating, swimming or water sports. But what of this is possible if you are in a wheelchair, for example? We can reveal a few things. Read more in our Topic of the Month!
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Photo: Inga H. playing with her dog in the forest; Copyright: private

privat

Inga H. – That's how she rolls

18.05.2022

Thanks to her stoma, Inga can now live a largely normal life – free and without pain. She can go out with her dog, swim and soon do other sports again. But she had to fight hard for this and overcome many hurdles. She tells REHACARE.com what these were and where she still experiences discrimination in public today.
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Photo: Elena Zubiaurre standing on a yard, looking to the camera; Copyright: Elena Zubiaurre / private

Elena Zubiaurre / privat

Elena Zubiaurre – That's how she rolls

04.05.2022

Living with an invisible disability – Elena Zubiaurre knows how it feels. She lives with multiple sclerosis (MS). But strangers don't see it. That's why she would like society to be more careful and attentive. She tells REHACARE.com which everyday aids and auxiliary means should also be invented and why home office and mandatory masks are a blessing for her.
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Photo: A female wheelchair user stands on a terrace and smiles sideways at the camera. You can see a green meadow in the background; Copyright: davidpereiras

davidpereiras

Auxiliary means industry: sustainable production, work and life

30.04.2022

The term "sustainability" has been on everyone's lips for some years now. Supermarkets advertise sustainable products, exchange platforms emphasize the sustainability of second-hand clothing, and disposable diapers are frowned upon by many young parents because of the mountains of trash they generate. But what is the actual situation in the medical and auxiliary means industry?
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Photo: a dark-skinned person sits with a bonsai on a sofa, the face is not visible; Copyright: envato/twenty20photos

envato/twenty20photos

A new generation and sustainability

30.04.2022

Sustainability is not a luxury that companies can take up for the sake of a better image. It is necessary to implement sustainable goals quickly in order to put a stop to climate change. But what can be done in the assistive technology industry, which often relies on plastic and disposable products? And are start-ups ahead of established companies here? Read more in the Topic of the Month.
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Photo: a dark-skinned person sits with a bonsai on a sofa, the face is not visible; Copyright: envato/twenty20photos

envato/twenty20photos

April 2022: A new generation and sustainability

28.04.2022

Sustainability is not a luxury that companies can take up for the sake of a better image. It is necessary to implement sustainable goals quickly in order to put a stop to climate change. But what can be done in the assistive technology industry, which often relies on plastic and disposable products? And are startups ahead of established companies here? Read more in the Topic of the Month.
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Photo: a person in a suit writes the word

twinsterphoto

Start-ups in the auxiliary aids industry

28.04.2022

Anyone visiting REHACARE on site will notice numerous small stands in addition to the larger stands of many established companies. Here you can often find new start-ups that want to expand the assistive technology sector with a fresh idea.
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Photo: Dietmar Sen with crossed arms, looking to the camera; Copyright: Niklas Arnold Photography

Niklas Arnold Photography

Dietmar Sen – That's how he rolls

20.04.2022

Dietmar Sen doesn't want to have to hide or be ashamed of his weaknesses. His message: "Let's be authentic!" He tells REHACARE.com which things he wishes for and what he misses from his youth.
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Photo: Alina Esleben smiling, looking to the right; Copyright: Yvy Anheier

Yvy Anheier

Alina Esleben – That's how she rolls

06.04.2022

Instead of new assistive devices, Alina Esleben would like to see a normalization of accessible public spaces and transportation. On REHACARE.com she shares her thoughts on local production within the assistive technology industry and how she rolls otherwise.
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Photo: a nurse helps an elderly man in pajamas out of bed. A wheelchair can be seen in the foreground; Copyright: PantherMedia/ridofranz

PantherMedia/ridofranz

Textiles: clothing in care

02.04.2022

There are more than four million people in need of care in Germany, and for every one of them there are one or more caregivers. Discussions about their situation often focus on the right equipment, such as care beds, walkers or drinking cups. But one factor for pleasant and professional care is often forgotten – clothing.
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Photo: green flowing fabric; Copyright: PantherMedia / Youzhny

PantherMedia / Youzhny

March 2022: Adaptive fashion and care textiles

24.03.2022

When it comes to fashion, tastes differ, but actually everyone attaches importance to clothing that fits well and comfortably! But to find clothes that fit is sometimes not so easy.
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Photo: a small model house stands on a construction plan, next to it a few screws and a yardstick; Copyright: PantherMedia / BrunoWeltmann

PantherMedia / BrunoWeltmann

February 2022: Living – accessible and smart

28.02.2022

How does accessible living work? What do you have to pay attention to? These are important questions that young people (should) ask themselves, for example, if they are planning to build a single-family home. Read more about this in the Topic of the Month February.
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Photo: a toilet in white in front of black tiles. To the right and left of it are grab bars; Copyright: PantherMedia/bitpics

PantherMedia/bitpics

Accessible bathrooms: fostering and maintaining greater autonomy and independence

28.02.2022

For most people, the bathroom is their happy place and sanctuary – which is why it is important to remove any barriers for safety, ease, and comfort. Unfortunately, this is not always a given when it comes to people with disabilities. Unless you live in a new building, you may have to remodel bathrooms and toilet rooms to accommodate your special needs.
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Photo: Woman sitting on a Mobili Kit from Benoit Systemes; Copyright: Benoit Systemes

Benoit Systemes

Mobile, more mobile, Mobili Kit: For more mobility into the narrowest corner

22.02.2022

When mobility declines, the step up to a wheelchair can be very costly, both emotionally and organizationally. Benoit Systemes has found a solution here: With the Mobili Kit, you can still make a U-turn in even the smallest hallway – and in your own favorite chair. Tanya Veraksa told us about the advantages of the Mobili Kit and the story behind Benoit Systemes.
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Photo: A technician fine-tuning a prosthetic leg; Copyright: PantherMedia/belahoche

PantherMedia/belahoche

January 2022: Product development in the assistive technology industry

24.01.2022

What does it take to develop a really good auxiliary mean? First-hand feedback – from those who use it regularly! Through those experiences, a company benefits from the knowledge of its customers and can incorporate it into the development of its products. Read more in our Topic of the Month.
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Photo: A researcher explains to a patient where the future prosthesis takes the muscle signals for controlling the prosthesis in his arm; Copyright: Ottobock SE & Co. KGaA

Ottobock SE & Co. KGaA

New product development takes an interdisciplinary and multifaceted approach

24.01.2022

Business stagnation is never a good thing. It’s the reason assistive technology manufacturers continuously come up with innovative equipment and improve on their existing products. REHACARE.com shows the influence users have on the assistive technology industry and explains the research and development processes in manufacturing companies.
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Photo: A technician fine-tuning a prosthetic leg; Copyright: PantherMedia/belahoche

PantherMedia/belahoche

Product development in the assistive technology industry

24.01.2022

What does it take to develop a really good auxiliary mean? First-hand feedback – from those who use it regularly! Through those experiences, a company benefits from the knowledge of its customers and can incorporate it into the development of its products.
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Photo: A small Lego wheelchair driver at the port of Hamburg, in the background container ships can be guessed out of focus; Copyright: Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

The right wheelchair for every occasion

16.12.2021

Wheelchairs have a special significance for their users: they give many people with disabilities a great deal of freedom by enabling them to live more self-determined. Whether for daily errands in the city, off-road adventures in the forest or for sports – the variety of wheelchairs is constantly increasing. REHACARE.com took a closer look.
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Photo: A young man stands on a mountain supported by walking aids; a mountain panorama can be seen in the background; Copyright: private

privat

Jonah Holtermann – That's how he rolls

15.12.2021

Due to an abrasion, Jonah Holtermann's life was turned completely upside down. The 23-year-old thinks positively despite the challenges that still lie ahead. After all, in the interim it was touch and go whether he would survive at all. Thanks to which aids he is mobile again, how it felt to wear a prosthesis for the first time and what makes him roll otherwise, he tells at REHACARE.com
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Photo: A wheelchair with the trivida® wheel, a part of the wheel leans in front of the wheelchair; Copyright: trivida®

trivida®

Reinventing the wheelchair wheel: greater independence with trivida®

09.12.2021

Nobody expects the reinvention of the wheel and yet that is exactly what P+L Innovations GmbH has accomplished. In this REHACARE.com interview, the company’s managing director, Dr. Christine Pflaumbaum, tells us what makes trivida® so unique, explains the benefits of a detachable wheelchair wheel and gives us insights into the development process.
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Photo: a young woman with long brown hair – CassMae – wearing a red jacket. The rest of her surrounding is held in blue; Copyright: Udo Fischer | nunsichtbar.de

Udo Fischer | nunsichtbar.de

Cassandra Mae Spittmann – That's how she rolls

01.12.2021

Cassandra Mae Spittmann discovered the world of rhythm at the age of two. While she started out playing the tabla with her feet, the 19-year-old now elicits the notes with her hands. She has remained true to her preference for Indian music. With her voice and her songs, however, she is reaching an ever-growing audience worldwide. At REHACARE.com she tells us how she rolls otherwise.
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Photo: a young woman opening the door at a store; Copyright: PantherMedia / DuxX73

PantherMedia / DuxX73

Target market: medical supply store

24.11.2021

You could say that a medical supply store is your friend and helper when it comes to medical aids. But what would medical supply stores be without them? How do new products make it into the range? Which link in the supply chain comes before the user's "place to be" when looking for a new aid?
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Photo: An avenue from above. On the gravel between the trees you can see someone driving along with the BRO; Copyright: Scewo AG

Scewo AG

Getting the finished product to the customers: partnering up with medical supply stores

24.11.2021

The medical supply store is your first point of contact if you need a (new) assistive device: It has a vast selection of mobility supports, practical aids for everyday activities, sports and leisure equipment. But how do these items get to the medical supply store? And how can a startup find commercial partners and establish its products effectively?
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Photo: A group of people in business suits at REHACARE; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Understanding their target market: retail companies in search of the best new products

24.11.2021

No two days are the same. You always learn and experience new things when you work with people. It’s one reason why medical supply stores strive to keep up to date on the latest product innovations. Besides manufacturers, retailers often step up to ensure the equipment lands in the right medical supply store.
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Photo: an elderly couple sitting in their apartment, the LiftonTRIO home elevator can be seen in the background; Copyright: Liftstar GmbH

Liftstar GmbH

Stylish and innovative design: taking it to the top with the Lifton home elevator

11.11.2021

Raúl Krauthausen recently discovered how much an elevator can make your life easier and add accessibility to your home. These days, the disability rights activist uses the LiftonTRIO Home Elevator from Lifton GmbH to navigate his apartment in Berlin. Reason enough for REHACARE.com to ask the Liftstar Group what makes the Lifton home elevator so different from other systems.
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Photo: a young woman and a young man at an evening event, talking animatedly. He is wearing a hearing aid behind his ear; Copyright: Friedrichstadt-Palast; Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Friedrichstadt-Palast; Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Small, smart, connected: hearing solutions and smart home applications

28.10.2021

The latest communication technology trends also affect hearing systems: These tiny hearing amplifiers are getting smarter and can sometimes be connected to other systems. REHACARE.com recaps the latest trends in hearing aid technology, explains the present limitations and explores other applications for the deaf and hard of hearing community.
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Photo: a blind man is reading a book with braille characters; Copyright: dzb lesen

dzb lesen

Touch, hear, participate: Assistive technology helps conquer visual impairment

28.10.2021

Blindness or visual impairment means a loss or partial loss of the sense of sight. What it doesn't mean is that those who are impacted by this must aim lower or feel inferior. An abundance of vision aids does a fantastic job of replacing the sense of sight in the best way possible.
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Photo: a blind man uses the read aloud function of his smartphone. a woman with a hearing aid; Copyright: Michel Arriens | www.michelarriens.de / visitBerlin; Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Michel Arriens | www.michelarriens.de / visitBerlin; Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Assistive devices for people with sensory disabilities

28.10.2021

In the end, a good assistive device always means: more participation. People with sensory disabilities experience a different form of barriers every day – especially frequently in the area of communication. In our Topic of the Month, you can read about the aids that can help them use their smartphones without barriers, for example, or about the development of hearing systems.
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Photo: A technician – Daniel Anlauf – during some welding work; Copyright: ottobock

ottobock

Tokyo 2020: Paralympic Games in a "bubble"

29.09.2021

The Paralympic Games in Tokyo were different than originally planned – not only for the athletes, but also for the technicians and other experts who helped turn the Tokyo athletic event into a success. Daniel Anlauf was on location as a technician of Ottobock – the official technical service partner of the Paralympics.
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Photo: a young man with black hair and a dark jacket – Florian Lutz; Copyright: Florian Lutz

Florian Lutz

Florian Lutz – That's how he rolls

08.09.2021

Florian Lutz listens carefully to people with disabilities when it comes to making their lives more self-determined. As a rehab consultant, he is on the road around Göppingen – and on the internet: There, inspired by his daily work, he presents aids for people with disabilities. What he thinks aid manufacturers need to consider in development and how he otherwise rolls, he tells on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: A bionic hand touches holographic elements in the air; Copyright: PantherMedia/vitaliy_sokol

PantherMedia/vitaliy_sokol

The future of prosthetics is here thanks to Artificial Intelligence and bionic feedback

31.08.2021

There are many exciting advances in the field of prosthetics. REHACARE.com asked prosthetic manufacturers and experts about the latest medical and technical research in laboratories and discovered how prostheses quite literally learn from the user.
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Photo: A young man with shirt and shorts in a city. He is wearing an prosthetic leg; Copyright: PantherMedia/primipil (YAYMicro)

PantherMedia/primipil (YAYMicro)

Prosthetics – between demand and reality

31.08.2021

Whether sporty on the move, dynamically flexible or with the right balance through everyday life – a prosthesis should support its wearer in the best possible way. What is a hot topic from a medical point of view, in which direction prostheses will apparently continue to develop and how, on the other hand, everyday care in Germany looks, is highlighted by REHACARE.com in our Topic of the Month.
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Photo: Young man in a cosy armchair with his dog on his lap. He is wearing a prosthetic leg.; Copyright: PantherMedia/DGLimages

PantherMedia/DGLimages

Prosthetic care takes comprehensive support and perseverance

31.08.2021

Adjusting to life after amputation can be challenging – both physically and mentally. Amputees need a lot of endurance and discipline before a prosthesis can fully replace a missing body part. Find out at REHACARE.com what is important when it comes to prosthesis fitting and discover where amputees can turn to for support.
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Photo: A technician sits in front of a laptop showing a scanned knee. An Ottobock employee stands next to him and explains something to him; Copyright: Otto Bock HealthCare Deutschland GmbH

Otto Bock HealthCare Deutschland GmbH

From scanning to 3D printing: the workshop goes digital

29.07.2021

"Our world today is becoming more digital both in the personal and business realm. Digital transformation affects many industry sectors – and the orthopedic industry is no exception," says Niklas Hohlfeld, Prosthetics Market Management of Otto Bock. The coronavirus pandemic has significantly accelerated the pace of this development. Otto Bock and Mecuris told us more.
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Photo: Female technician taking a 3D scan of a patient's lower leg; Copyright: Otto Bock HealthCare Deutschland GmbH

Otto Bock HealthCare Deutschland GmbH

Orthopedic technology – A professional field as multifaceted as the medical aids industry

29.07.2021

People with disabilities need individual assistive devices. It is the task of orthopaedic technicians to select these with them and to adapt them to their specific needs. What else is part of the job description and how companies support the technicians in their work in the medical supply store can be read in our Topic of the Month.
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Photo: An orthopedic technician holds a plaster leg from the workshop in his hands; Copyright: PantherMedia / moodboard (YAYMicro)

PantherMedia / moodboard (YAYMicro)

Everyday life in the medical supply store: working on, with and for people

29.07.2021

Whether it is an orthotic, prosthetic or wheelchair – it takes orthopedic know-how and skill to ensure the assistive device has the proper fit and also "fits" your lifestyle (pun intended). Although orthopedic technicians are often the first point of contact for patients, their profession is often unfairly underrated.
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Photo: a young woman with blonde curls is smiling towards the camera – Janine Kolbig; Copyright: privat

privat

Janine Kolbig – That's how she rolls

14.07.2021

Living a self-determined life is a matter of the heart for Janine Kolbig. She is the founder of the Centre for Self-Determined Living Northern Germany, which advises people with disabilities and represents their interests. What self-determination means to her, who the origin of this movement is for her and how she otherwise rolls, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: a young woman with braids is sitting in a wheelchair and doing a half backflip – Jesi Stracham; Copyright: Jim Dukes Photography

Jim Dukes Photography

Jesi Stracham – That's how she rolls

30.06.2021

Jesi Stracham is a wheelchair user and has no problem with it: Over the years, she has learned to accept herself as she is and to detach herself from societal expectations – she no longer wants to have any labels put on her. How she has achieved this mindset, why every day is a good day for her and how she otherwise rolls, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: A bunch of service dogs around a wheelchair; Copyright: WZ Hundezentrum

WZ Hundezentrum

Service dogs: priceless four-legged helpers

29.06.2021

REHACARE.com spoke with two dog training centers and learned how much people with disabilities benefit from a canine companion in everyday life and discovered the type of training assistance dogs complete before they are matched with a person.
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Photo: a young man with glasses sits in a wheelchair on a hill at dusk, a river and the illuminated river bank can be seen in the background - Tobi Kroll; Copyright: Tobi Kroll

Tobias Kroll

Tobi Kroll – That's how he rolls

16.06.2021

How can we arrive in an inclusive world? Tobi Kroll has a few suggestions, because he is always thinking about barriers – both structural and social. But he also has some ideas about how society can accommodate people with disabilities. Who he would like to discuss our society with and how he otherwise rolls, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Two women wear transparent masks so that all their facial expressions can be seen and communication is made easier for people with a hearing impairment; Copyright: iuvas medical GmbH

iuvas medical GmbH

Better swallowing and understanding: Sophisticated aids from the field of speech therapy

15.06.2021

Some aids may play a minor role in life, but they make everyday life much easier. These include products from iuvas medical: on the one hand, the transparent mask miama, which makes communication in the pandemic clearer. On the other hand, the sippa drinking aid, in which the contents are kept constantly at the top by a membrane so that people with dysphagia can swallow more easily.
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Photo: A person stands on a hill and stretches a flashlight into the night sky. From his position, a city can be seen in the background; Copyright: opta data

opta data Abrechnungs GmbH

Corporate social responsibility: diversity is an asset

31.05.2021

Accessibility, participation, and inclusion are buzzwords associated with people with disabilities. The notion that we should focus on people’s abilities, not their disabilities is a lesson that is not yet fully understood by most - especially when it comes to labor force participation. We took a closer look at the role companies and their social responsibility play in spurring social changes.
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Photo: a woman with light grey hair, glasses and a green t-shirt is sinnting in a wheelchair in front of a building, on her legs she carries a ramp made of tiny bricks; Copyright: Lego-Oma-Team

Lego-Oma-Team

Rita Ebel – That's how she rolls

19.05.2021

Rita Ebel has become known as the "Lego granny": Since accessibility is still a scarce commodity, she designs ramps made of interlocking plastic bricks. Boxes of the colourful bricks are stored in her house and are transformed into ramps with creative patterns. Why she herself is dependent on accessibility, why she never loses her smile and how she otherwise rolls, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: young girl with glasses smiling at the camera; beside her is her LIFEpad - a tabletbased speech recognition software; Copyright: LIFEtool

LIFEtool

Computer-aided communication: assistive technology promotes participation

29.04.2021

Whether it is voice recognition with or without eye tracking technology, educational or speech recognition software – assistive technology builds bridges that allow people to get in touch with their surroundings.
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Photo: Young female wheelchair user smiling at her laptop screen in front of her; Copyright: Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Building bridges - communication software in focus

26.04.2021

Communication is an important cornerstone for social participation. It is therefore all the more important that the communication aids that are available are adapted to the people who need them. In our Topic of the Month, you can find out who is responsible for this and what difficulties still exist today, but also what is encouraging.
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Photo: ; Copyright: Andi Weiland | Boehringer Ingelheim, Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Andi Weiland | Boehringer Ingelheim, Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Assistive devices in the workplace: Making communication accessible

26.04.2021

Especially for blind and visually impaired people, the lack of or non-working augmentative communication devices frequently means that they have no prospect of participating in the workplace. We discussed with Bruno Behrendt from Papenmeier why screen readers are sometimes nothing more than pretty tools and learned why technical support is THE perennial issue when it comes to customer service.
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Photo: a black head support system on a mannequin; Copyright: Sheffield Hallam Universität

Sheffield Hallam Universität

Head support system HeadUp Collar: Communication at eye level

22.04.2021

Head support systems for ALS patients are often not sophisticated and resemble neck braces. The University of Sheffield developed the HeadUp Collar, which can be individually adapted to the needs of the patient. REHACARE.com asked Anita Ogale, Product Manager at ProWalk, what makes the new head support system so special.
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Photo: A girl and a boy ride the TRETS trikes one behind the other. The background is motion blurred, which gives the impression of speed; Copyright: HASE BIKES

HASE BIKES

Sporty and flexible biking – with the new TRETS from HASE BIKES

04.03.2021

On your bike, get set, go – the new TRETS from HASE BIKES makes this possible for children with neuromuscular disease. And the best thing about it? Since it has a medical aid registration number, German health insurance companies pay for or contribute to the purchase of the trike. REHACARE.com asked Dario Valenti to find out what makes TRETS unique and why working for HASE BIKES is so special.
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Photo: a family at the beach, the mother is holding a child's hand, the father is carrying a second child on his shoulders; Copyright: PantherMedia / VaDrobotBO

PantherMedia / VaDrobotBO

Incontinence and stoma: assistive devices for a carefree life

02.03.2021

The reasons for living with incontinence or a stoma are as varied as the people affected themselves. Manufacturers of assistive devices are therefore particularly concerned that their products fit the users as well as possible. And they are also there to advise and support their customers. We will show you the variety of products and advice offers.
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Photo: Three women with drinks in a Cafe; Copyright: PantherMedia/Sergiy Tryapitsyn

PantherMedia/Sergiy Tryapitsyn

Incontinence: Effective management with the right aid and consultation service

02.03.2021

Incontinence comes with a list of misconceptions. Yet it is quite common and should not be a taboo subject. Incontinence affects many people: besides older adults, this includes pregnant women, people who are paralyzed or children. How do you manage incontinence and self-catheterization if you are affected and what are available product options and consultation services?
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Photo: a womans body, she is wearing green jeans and pulling up her T-Shirt a bit so that her ostopy pouch can be seen; Copyright: PantherMedia/Matusskaaaaa

PantherMedia / matusskaaaaa

Strategies for optimal bowel management with stoma or TAI

02.03.2021

A variety of solutions can help when the intestines don’t work properly: a stoma is an artificial opening designed to treat disease, relieve symptoms and make life easier. Transanal irrigation (TAI) is another well-documented technique that helps remediate fecal incontinence and constipation. Medical device manufacturers and home care experts help find the best solution to every problem.
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Photo: a man with a grey suit is leaning against a white wall – Jörg Dommershausen; Copyright: Peer Klausing

Peer Klausing

Jörg Dommershausen – That's how he rolls

24.02.2021

Jörg Dommershausen takes comprehensive care of his clients: He helps those affected to cope with changed circumstances in their professional and private lives after serious accidents. In addition to his counselling services, Dommershausen also produces two (German) podcasts and a guide. What is indispensable for his work with his clients and how he otherwise rolls, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: a man is sitting in a power wheelchair, he is wearing glasses; Copyright: HomeBraceGermany UG

HomeBraceGermany UG

Sensor glasses: Move the wheelchair independently with your eyes

16.02.2021

The eyes play an important role in everyday communication, for example in recognising facial expressions. But for people with severely limited mobility, the eye makes much more possible: Equipped with the MyEcc Pupil, they can move their power wheelchair or a robotic arm independently. How do the glasses make all this possible? REHACARE.com asked Managing Director Thomas Rosner.
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Photo: a young woman – Lily Rice – is wearing a helmet and doing a stunt in a pink wheelchair; Copyright: Steven Clarey

Steven Clarey

Lily Rice – That's how she rolls

10.02.2021

Lily Rice can usually be found at the skatepark, refining her WCMX techniques in her pink wheelchair. The training is paying off: Lily entered the scene in 2017, two years later she was Women's World Champion. It was only logical that her biggest challenge to date was in the halfpipe – what it was, who motivates her and how she otherwise rolls, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Close-up of a wheelchair user in front of a Myd'l ramp; Copyright: Myd'l

Myd'l

Myd'l: Diverse, innovative and individual – ramps for all occasions

28.01.2021

Shopping – especially in city centers – can quickly turn from pleasure to frustration. Namely, when stores are only accessible via one or more steps. The French company Myd'l has a solution ready for every barrier in terms of accessibility – whether private or business. Successfully active in international business for 22 years, the manufacturer now also offers its products in Germany.
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Photo: a young woman in a red dress is sitting in a black wheelchair, the sea is in the background; Copyright: Ines Zeifert

Ines Zeifert

Lilli Zeifert – That's how she rolls

27.01.2021

Lilli Zeifert has already seen a lot of the world. Perhaps that's why her great love is for what there is still to discover beyond the Earth: Whatever there is to find out about astrophysics – Lilli wants to know. Who she thinks are the smartest minds of all time, what she would like to discuss with them and how she otherwise rolls, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: a picture of a living room, in the blurry background is a TV, in the front is a green cluster that says

PantherMedia/aa-w

Ambient Assisted Living: Smart technology for self-determined living

14.01.2021

Opening the front door by voice or having a 3D camera under the ceiling that precisely detects falls and calls for help? There are no limits to the possibilities of Ambient Assisted Living (AAL). We show you which smart technical systems are now hidden behind this term and how they can contribute to more self-determination for people with disabilities.
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Photo: a man with white hair and blue shirt smiles to the camera, a white Patronusens-box is installed at the ceiling; Copyright: Inferics GmbH

Inferics GmbH

More self-determination thanks to smart technologies

14.01.2021

Everyone wants to live a self-determined life, but it isn’t always easy to implement – especially if you are an older adult or live with a disability. Fortunately, there are systems that help promote autonomy and independence in your own home. Size doesn’t always matter as even little smart helpers can give users peace of mind and a feeling of security as they navigate everyday life.
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Photo: Close-up of the lower body of a user who is currently driving with spike over a gravel road; Copyright: Exero Technologies

Exero Technologies

Functionality meets design: the new adaptive sport equipment Spike

29.10.2020

Activities aiming at occupational therapy and rehabilitation are boring? Not necessarily! A new assistive exercise and sports equipment named Spike is not only designed to be fun, but also suitable for everybody who wants to get and stay fit. How this works for whom and what kind of history connects Spike with REHACARE? We asked!
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Photo collage: Girl with WalkAide 2.0 goes for a walk with a dog. Boy with WalkAide walks on a path. Man with NeuGait walks down stairs; Copyright: Brio Photography / Pro Walk GmbH

Brio Photography / Pro Walk GmbH

Pro Walk: Overcoming foot drop one step at a time

24.09.2020

Safe walking without tripping or falling is challenging for people with foot drop. Luckily there are technologies that provide active support by using functional electrical stimulation (FES). Pro Walk GmbH delivers these types of foot drop systems. How do these devices allow users to complete everyday tasks? REHACARE.com asked Nico Riedl, Product Manager and Physiotherapist at Pro Walk GmbH.
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Photo: Transfer board ready for transfer lies on the seat of the wheelchair; Copyright: meinHOLTZ

meinHOLTZ

Transfer boards by meinHOLTZ: "Assistive devices can be practical, modern and stylish at the same time"

28.02.2020

Is it a skateboard with no wheels? No, it’s a transfer board made by meinHOLTZ! These modern boards help people who use wheelchairs to easily move from one surface to another on their own. Not only does this make transfers easy, but the assistive devices also look stylish and sophisticated.
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Photo: Two wheelchair users with wheelchairs that have integrated the WheelAir system; Copyright: WheelAir

WheelAir

WheelAir: No more overheating for wheelchair users

30.01.2020

Overheating is a serious issue for people who use a wheelchair. Ice packs and water sprays used to help many of them in order to keep cool. But Corien Staels, Founder & Managing Director of WheelAir, wanted to find a technological solution for the problem of overheating. Since then the WheelAir concept is about to change lives.
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Photo: Peter Lammer at REHACARE 2019; Copyright: beta-web

beta-web

Standing Ovation facilitates mobility at the workplace

12.12.2019

Sitting while standing up – Standing Ovation makes this oxymoron possible. The rail system with its C-shaped seat bar and seat lifting unit allows Austrian chef Peter Lammer to sustain his job despite an 80 percent disability rating pertaining to his legs. With REHACARE.com he talked about the invention that brought back his zest for life and the feedback he received at this year's trade fair.
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Photo: Patrick Mayer in the German TV show

VOX / TVNOW / Frank W. Hempel

Mobility: Overcoming barriers with Wheelblades

28.11.2019

Whether they are on vacation in the mountains or brave winter weather at home – people with mobility impairments want to take precautions to arrive safely at their destination. Patrick Mayer is personally affected by disability and developed two products that enable wheelchair and walking aid users to master these situations: Wheelblades and the SafetyFoot.
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Photo: Screenshot from the Bravo Twist product video. An older man sits in front of a plate and holds the Bravo Twist in his hand ; Copyright: Pro Walk GmbH

Pro Walk GmbH

Adaptive eating utensils with a Twist: How Bravo Twist by ProWalk outsmarts Parkinson’s tremors

17.10.2019

We all know that food intake is essential for the survival of every living organism. Yet for humans, food can also be a great source of pleasure or even love. At any rate, it is an important part of our social life. But what happens if our own body throws a monkey wrench into our food intake by having a stroke or neurological disorder?
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Photo: The iEAT Light Grip eating aid; Copyright: Assistive Innovations bv

Assistive Innovations bv

"Assistive devices help to actively join the meal"

22.08.2019

There are various different kinds of auxiliary means at REHACARE. And the drinking and eating aids are definitely among the popular ones. With its assistive devices the company Assistive Innovations bv from the Netherlands wants to help people with different disabilities to become more independent with eating. CEO Arthur Blom tells REHACARE.com more about classic and new products.
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Photo: Prototype of the sensor for a cane; Copyright: Zahout-Heil

Zahout-Heil

SmAccLab: Smart auxiliary means for everyone

28.05.2019

Accessible and realistic – that’s how auxiliary aids should be in the eyes of Professor Carsten Zahout. Students at the Smart Accessibility Laboratory (SmAccLab) are working on technical solutions that fulfill these requirements and lead to increased participation for people with disabilities. REHACARE.com found out how product engineering and inclusion join forces.
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Photo: An elderly woman catches ichó. The ball starts to glow in red-orange colors.; Copyright: ichó systems - icho-systems.de

ichó systems - icho-systems.de

"ichó brings people with and without dementia together and provides a way to share stories, experiences, and impressions."

22.04.2018

Like the golden sphere in the fairy tale of the Frog King, ichó (Greek for echo) is meant to bring back lost motor skills and cognitive functions to people with dementia. The project of four former graduates of the Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences aims to offer individual support through a person’s favorite music or fairy tale.
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Photo: Stefanie Trzecinski; Copyright: Johannes Franke

Johannes Franke

"At the TUECHTIG coworking space, people with and without disabilities are working together – and not just next to each other"

22.03.2018

Maximum flexibility to encourage ideas, effectively sharing office space: coworking spaces have become a part of many major cities. In 2017, Berlin featured about one hundred of them, but none of them were comprehensively accessible. That’s something Stefanie Trzecinski from KOPF, HAND + FUSS gGmbH wanted to change. That was the moment, the idea for "TUECHTIG – Raum für Inklusion" was born.
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Photo: Cinderella and Niels of HelpCamps; Copyright: HelpCamps

HelpCamps

HelpCamps: "Making assistive technology faster, more affordable and personalized"

23.11.2017

In accordance with the slogan "Nothing about us without us", the HelpCamps project aims at developing and implementing concepts and ideas together. To make this a reality, people with disabilities, companies from the assistive technology, care and assistance sectors, as well as stakeholders in the so-called maker movement and researchers, are brought together to network during various events.
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Photo: Click-sonar coach Juan Ruiz while training with a kid; Copyright: Anderes Sehen e.V., www.anderes-sehen.de

Anderes Sehen e.V., www.anderes-sehen.de

"Long cane for children is a 'facilitator'– the chance to independently accomplish something"

17.08.2017

The long cane offers the possibility to be independent and effectively mobile as a person with visual impairment. Children in particular could get used to him in a playful way. The association "Anderes sehen e.V." has co-developed the children's long cane. REHACARE.com spoke to Ellen Schweizer, the founder of the association, about the fact that inclusion is not a burden, but can bring joy.
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Photo: Florian Adler; Copyright: Tim de Gruisbourne

Tim de Gruisbourne

"Inclusive communication design is both accessible and attractive"

15.06.2017

For many, recognizing and understanding characters is an important prerequisite to social participation. Inclusive communication design helps people with visual impairments to accomplish this. REHACARE.com spoke with designer and expert of the German Association for Blind and Visually Impaired People, Florian Adler. He has developed a digital guide to inclusive communication design.
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Photo: Sandra Glöckler; Copyright: Rolli auf Trab

Rolli auf Trab

"Horse riding is a sport people with and without impairments are able to experience together on equal footing"

20.04.2017

More self-confidence and independence – things you can learn from horse riding for example. People with disabilities can take this important step with "Rolli auf Trab" (English: Trotting with Wheelchairs). REHACARE.com spoke with Sandra Glöckler of "Rolli auf Trab" about the lust for life that horse riding inspires and the interaction and experiences with the animals.
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Photo: Marcus Rohrbach cuts fruits in kitchen, camera records scenes, computer screen in foreground

MPI-INF/MMeyer

Will software automatically describe movie plots in the near future?

18.07.2016

In order to understand the plot of a movie an audio version is very helpful for visually impaired people. Authors watch the whole movies and describe what happens in each scene. But wouldn’t it be possible for a computer software to do this kind of work? Researchers work on developing a program which automatically generates movie descriptions and reads them out.
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Photo: Birgit Gebhardt

Stephanie Brinkkoetter

Blessing or curse? Using robots in the healthcare sector

21.06.2016

In the distant future? – But today already a reality: robot caregivers are designed to make the daily tasks of healthcare workers easier. Today these types of helpers are already being used in Japan. They lift people in need of care out of their beds, play cards with them or cuddle with dementia patients.
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Photo: Sigrid Arnade

ISL

"Ability4Refugees platform wants to provide auxiliary means for refugees with disabilities"

24.05.2016

Many people who had to leave their home country traveled in a wheelchair or used crutches. The stress of this escape was at times even more exhausting and taxing for some than for others. REHACARE.com spoke with Sigrid Arnade (ISL e.V.) and Eva-Maria and Andreas Mohn (Andreas Mohn Foundation) about the Ability4Refugees platform that aims to improve the availability of auxiliary means for refugees.
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Photo: Philipp Mahler with an avatar at MEDICA 2015

"The robot facilitates and promotes the connection between children"

15.12.2015

A robot that provides a link between hospital and classroom? The project Avatar Kids makes this possible: acutely ill children are able to actively participate in school activities with the help of a tablet computer. The teacher facilitates the communication. REHACARE.com spoke with Philipp Mahler of Avatar Kids about the opportunities this project provides.
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Photo: Nicole Seifert

BGW/in.signo

"Safe mobility starts with the right choice and adaptation of the wheelchair"

23.07.2015

Whether it’s a wheelchair or a walker – for people with disabilities, it is crucial to control their own mobility in a competent and safe manner. Yet not everyone truly feels confident in every situation with these assistive devices. That’s why REHACARE.com spoke with Nicole Seifert about ways to foster more trust in yourself and others.
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