A common man's introduction to Computer response therapy

Being alone doesn’t necessarily mean that a disabled person needs help with everything to be productive. As previously mentioned, there are a vast number of input/output devices currently available, so virtually anyone can operate a computer – even those with serious disabilities. 

That taken into consideration, a disabled individual should never be denied the feelings of growth; self-esteem; equality; capability; and independence a computer can provide. In addition, computers cost less than they used to, and the funding (both public and private) "for computers, and the necessary input/output devices" is generally available for those who need it: many times a refurbished or sometimes a brand new computer is offered free (or at little cost) to a disabled person. 

Additionally, being online with a computer establishes the ability to converse by means of email; attend college courses; make purchases; send gifts; read online newspapers and magazines; operate a business; and/or participate in an infinite variety of other activities anywhere in the world. These added abilities make "a computer plus the internet" an exceptionally powerful tool for putting a "choke hold" on a disabled individual’s negative feelings.

Far too many family members; friends; doctors; nurses; therapists; social workers; nursing home staff members; and sometimes even the disabled individuals themselves are only concerned with "physical health" and pay too little attention to "psychological well-being." These feelings of growth and accomplishment; self-satisfaction; self-esteem, and other closely associated constructive emotions are all immensely important to achieving a balanced recovery; to acquire the acceptance a disability; to create an interesting life; or sometimes to make life itself seem worthwhile.

Too frequently, watching TV; listening to the radio; looking out the window; playing low-intelligence games; or some other non-inspirational and/or non-participatory activity is slowly depriving the disabled individual of the things every human needs to restore; maintain; or improve his/or her health, both mentally as well as spiritually. What, you may ask, is wrong with lying around watching TV; listening to music; relaxing; not having to work, or worry about paying bills; and otherwise facing the stresses of everyday life? This is another example of, "the grass is always greener on the other side": "just existing" becomes non-rewarding after an incredibly short period of time. Soon, "relaxing" grows to be the source of "undesired stress", and the mind starts to crave "interaction" a fundamental, often-neglected need of every human being.

One of the first instances of "Interaction" for a human is when a newborn baby is pat on the bottom and cries out, taking in their first breath: there is an "interaction" between the nurse and the infant. Throughout a person’s lifetime, it is exceedingly important that an individual communicates with family; friends; loved ones; and various people they come in contact with, AND they receive a "response." For example, when a man kisses a woman a response is expected: a slap in the face; a kiss; a knee in the family jewels; or the woman turns and walks away – all clear signs the man just did something and received some sort of "feedback" for his actions. 

But, in the case of a disabled person, what happens after everybody leaves him or her alone in their room: he or she turns on the Television or radio, and never receives a "response" (No; a kiss doesn’t warrant a violent reaction from the computer [at least not yet, anyway]). 

Though only a machine; when using a computer there IS a "response" for every "action": this "interaction" is similar to having a "friend". The disabled individual uses their input device; "clicks" "OK"; and the computer does something in return – even if all it does is ask, "Do you really want to do that?": the point is, for every "action" there is a "reaction."  

A short time after this dialogue is established, the "computer’s operator" becomes so absorbed in this "interactive exchange" virtually all detrimental thoughts are completely replaced by what’s at hand. What’s more, if the computer is online with the internet the disabled individual has the capacity to communicate with family; friends; and loved ones.

Further Clarification

In the past five or so years, people have heard me raving about the wonderful companion a computer can be for a disabled individual. After blabbing, passionately for a few minutes, the other person invariably asks me something to the effect of, "How can my dad benefit from a computer fixed-up where he can operate it?" Not having any of my convictions written down, I’d usually get tongue-tied and draw a blank: transcribing the facts along with my thoughts seemed entirely overdue; so here’s my, concise clarification …….

Input/output devices provide accessibility.

Most disabled individuals – including those with acute disabilities – can accomplish countless tasks on a computer with the aid of assistive technology (also known as adaptive technology). Matching the devices with the intended user should always be supervised by a qualified specialist familiar with various computer input/output devises -- especially in the case of a severe physical or mental disability. This involves replacing standard keyboards; mice; monitors; and printers with special input/output devices, such as: voice input/output; eye tracking devices; magnifiers; special switches; a variety of alternative keyboards; word-prediction software; Morse code; foot pedals; large track balls; on-screen keyboards; Braille printers; Braille key add-ons; or through some other means.  (see devices and software)

What direct benefits are there?

In my youth, before personal computers were a reality; alcohol and drugs were seemingly the only way to ward off negative feelings and problems – that is, till later when I got my first computer. Sheer mental immersion; and concentration is always preferable to alcohol, or mind-altering drugs – without the harmful side effects. (Although, I would advise being very careful as to what information is revealed in "chat-rooms")

• Ability to communicate with people who have similar interests. (same disease; disabled sports; disability dating; blind interest, internet or other groups; etc.)
  
  
• Ability to purchase items "yourself" outside the confines of the home or facility is very satisfying (most are shipped to your door). 
  
  
• Ability to get information about your disability (research updates; organizations to help with your disability; brochures; books; treatments; etc.).
  
  
• Ability to find special input/output devices (from a verity of places) – buy or download them free; have them paid for by organizations or insurance; or have them donated – so that those with disabilities can operate a computer (big keyboards; voice input/output devices; head and eye operated devices; magnifiers; trackballs; word prediction software; on-screen keyboards; work stations, etc.) and have them delivered.
  
  
• Ability to have virtually all text or written words (including "HELP" and web sites) "read" aloud by the computer (need special output software, and sound).
  
  
• Ability to participate in college and other educational courses (at your own pace) from anywhere at anytime (in real time), is unprecedented.
  
  
• The computer is a friend and becomes part of you, more strongly than artificial limbs (clearly a true ‘Essential-Prosthetic’).
  

A small sample of physical benefits:

• Accessibility to a computer (previously an unattainable goal)
  
  
• Being able to use a one-handed keyboard or a foot operated device
  

Ability to get on-screen keyboards.

• Ability to use dictionaries on CD-ROM and "hear the pronunciation." (when handling books was previously impossible)
  
  
• Ability to use mind control to operate a computer (when other input methods fail):

http://www.cyberkineticsinc.com/content/index.jsp    BrainGate (See Clinical Trials)

• Ability to speak and have the computer "type" the words for you (speech recognition software and hardware is required).
  
  
• Ability to have virtually all text or written words "read" out loud by the computer (need special software, and sound).
  
  
• Ability to have pain minimized due to total mental absorption.
  
  
• Being able to participate in realistic portrayals of sports and games (e.g. basketball; Pool; motocross; football etc.).
  
  
• Ability to print pre "filled-out" checks (when unable to write).

A small sample of psychological benefits:

• Ability to participate in games -  built-in; online (interactive); CDs etc. 3D
  
  
• Ability to do things without others knowing your "disabled" snuffs out prejudice and pre-conceptual thoughts (or feelings of being "different").
  
  
• Thoughts of suicide can disappear.
  
  
• Ability to have negative thoughts; feelings; and/or mindsets e.g. stress, anxiety, uselessness, anger, inadequacies, and worry reduced.
  
  
• Other than one-way communication (i.e. TV, radio etc.), a computer can be far more satisfying and enjoyable. (especially, alone or in a nursing home)
  
  
• Feelings of being valuable to family, friends, and peers can strengthen.

Harmful thoughts:

"Detrimental thoughts" (believe me) many times go hand-in-hand with a disability. Frequently, people see the "good side" of the disabled individual: they have no conception of the "frustration" and "anxiety" levels of the disabled individual when they’re alone and unable to achieve a simple goal. This problem often increases with the severity of the disability.

Many negative thoughts; or related problems can be reduced or eliminated for a disabled individual through the use of an adapted computer. But, an adapted computer should never be thought of as a replacement for traditional, professional care. However, a computer is normally nearby and available for use at any time; making a computer a valuable supplement to conventional treatments.

Indeed, how could my roommate have all these difficulties and still be polite and courteous to most nurses and aides? The only thing he does (beside eat and sleep) is play Solitaire, hour after hour, osn his computer – every day since I became his roommate six years ago (except when his computer is broke down). Indeed, how could my roommate have all these difficulties and still be polite and courteous to most nurses and aides? The only thing he does (beside eat and sleep) is play Solitaire, hour after hour, osn his computer – every day since I became his roommate six years ago (except when his computer is broke down). He undoubtedly is taking advantage of what he can do. 

A balanced restitution

"Stress" isn’t always a bad thing: "moderate stress" is occasionally necessary to make a person either "deal with a situation", "or give up entirely." Whether, new to a computer, or an individual who is faced with operating a computer through a new method (input device), usually to a person who is new to a computer there’s a moderate amount of stress involved using a computer. "This "stress" is typically enough to motivate a disabled individual to learn "how this damn thing works" – especially, if someone has demonstrated "what can be done" with this computer. 

Physical therapy; exercise; a healthy diet; professional care, and all traditional treatments; medications; therapies; and surgeries, (when applicable) are still essential: but everyone should remember, every disabled individual is a human being first and foremost, and requires, often-overlooked, but critical, intermittent receptive "interaction" – frequently, available only when others are present to talk with the individual. Unfortunately, in this hectic, got-to-make-a-buck civilization, this is not only unrealistic, it just "ain’t gonna happen".

A respectable and complete course of therapy ought to include the times when a disabled individual is left unaccompanied; which unfortunately, is the vast majority of the time when he/or she is in a hospital; nursing home; living alone; or when his/or her caregiver; roommate; or family and friends are working, or away from home for another reason.

To some individuals who own a home, or have rent to pay; bills to keep up with; children to take care of; a job, or business to run; and otherwise a "full" life; a computer may seem like a time-consuming, habit forming "toy" – doing more harm than good. But, a computer (especially, one online with the internet), can, and usually will be, a blessing to a disabled individual – whether or not they’re alone the majority of the time.

Right now, we have the answer to a previously unnoticed dilemma right at our fingertips: technology has handed us an answer, and has made it available to almost everyone. "Wake up and smell the technology!"

What software programs can a disabled person start using with a properly adapted computer?

Communication:

Many, if not all, computers come with some sort of pre-installed software, either supplied by the original manufacturer, or installed by the previous owner(s). One thing almost always included with every computer is a word processor. So, as soon as the individual’s computer is set up with the appropriate input devises, they will likely want to use the computer to write a letter to a friend or family member. (Providing the computer is not needed to develop literacy skills)

Although, possibly difficult and frustrating at first, soon the disabled individual will have their first letter written and ready to be printed out, or transcribed and mailed. Hopefully, the person "written to" will soon write back, or visit: thus, enjoying the rewards of two-way communication.

**** Many bigger word processors have capabilities well beyond just writing an ordinary letter ……... spell correction; thesaurus; built-in dictionaries; print preview; mail merge; labels; word count; speech readout of what you have written; drawing; clipart; photos; macro capability – ("computers for those with disabilities" was typed by hitting two keys – "macros" are a real time-saver if you type slowly); search and replace – ("a computer for a person with a disability" < this is a sample of using search and replace to find and replace all instances of "computers for those with disabilities", either automatically, or at one a time); automatic backups every few minutes; database insertion … also, templates to instantly produce: websites; resumes; business letters; greeting cards; flyers; awards; print full-page of address stickers; etc.

Internet browsers and email

Additionally, if the disabled individual is on the internet, their letter could arrive at its destination in a matter of seconds. On the other hand, an unfortunate reality is, family and friends, now and then, haven’t the time or means to visit the disabled person. The ability to easily and quickly send email; greeting cards; gift cards; flowers; candy; etc. "in place of visiting" helps to mend hard feelings for both the "sender" and "send-ee."

Most computers come with a internet browser an a email program already installed: a browser (put simply) is what is needed to "surf", or move around, the internet. An "email program" is (of course) needed to send and receive email. Most computers need a working phone line to go on board the internet. (A "faster" connection probably is available in your area at a higher price.)

Learn a new language

A disabled individual might have a new-found friend, and they would like to talk to in that person in his/or her own language. With the "correct" software or this could be done in an incredibly short period of time. Using software enables the individual to hear the instructor’s "teachings", "over and over again", this is sometimes more effective toward "learning a new language" than by attending a temporary "traditional" class. Later, if the new friend cringes when called a "stubby penis" the software can many times be returned for a "refund." (Don’t worry; there are some incredibly effective software programs out there!)

(CD-ROMs; software programs; or online courses)

Personal Information Managers

The ability to electronically keep track of most everything that’s going on with an individual’s life is indeed a wonderful commodity (especially, if you have a memory like I do). A PIM (personal information manager) is a software application that has the potential to remind a disabled individual that they aren’t alone. There are other people; events; responsibilities; and choices to be made – not to mention, "Next month is granny’s birthday." With a PIM an individual has:

The ability to keep track of doctor appointments; email and snail mail addresses; notes; phone numbers (many dial the phone for you); birthdays; holidays; special events; Also, many "Personal Information Managers" offer: planning charts; calendars with pop-up reminders that have alarms; complete management of "internet" information including "hot" links, and much more.

Personal finance software

Ability to keep track of your finances gives one a strong feeling of independence.

Complex forms of communication:

Publishers

Since "communication" is the cornerstone of human "interrelationships", being able to "publish" and printout: fliers, greeting or birthday cards; postcards; stickers (all kinds); pre-addressed envelopes; address cards; calendars; album pages; awards- compete with photos; fancy borders or artwork etc has definite advantages.

"Now I know what to make and send Granny on her birthday"

Graphic programs 

Take photos; transfer them into the computer – then enhance e.g. sharpen; lighten; rid of red eye; use photos on all kinds of documents; print out as photographs; create photo albums on CDs (need digital camera or photos and scanner) or apply an infinite variety of special effects to a photo, on an amateur or professional basis.

Create photo "albums" on screen

Draw, paint, and create other forms of illustration. 

The list of applications is endless, well beyond the scope of this website. Find an endless array of software applications by searching on the Internet,   "write in" what you want to accomplish using any major search engine.  

“THIS ‘UNDERESTIMATION’ OF THE IMPORTANCE OF ‘COMPUTERS FOR THE DISABLED’, MUST STOP.”

a. Help make “computers for the disabled” the norm.        

Computers adapted for the seriously disabled are indeed, an essential, assistive therapy. These computers (specially equipped with alternative input/ output devices) should be freely available in the United States and other developed countries. The therapeutic benefits amount to a powerful, mind healing, self-esteem building, panacea, and should never be overlooked as a viable medical treatment.

Doctors; nurses; therapists; social workers; nursing home staff; and other closely involved professionals should be required by law to recognize the significance of "computers for those with disabilities." And if need be, help qualified individuals receive and maintain these adapted computers. Professional caregivers should be obligated to inform the disabled individuals (and their families) of:

    (1) The life-improving benefits of an adapted computer

    (2) The eligibility for a free or low cost computer, either refurbished or new

    (3) The organizations that help to provide computers; adaptive devices; and training

Help us make "Computers for the disabled" lawfully recognized as a medical necessity (donate a few dollars today)

If you agree with my views concerning the importance of “computers for the disabled.” Click here

"Computer response therapy" is a very important aspect of "Esteem therapy"