News Release

New book on independent living through smart technologies available from Wiley

Book Announcement

Wiley

Assistive technologies like wheelchairs and hearing aids compensate for functional limitations in order to enhance independence, mobility, communication, and overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. High-technology electronic devices like computers, smart phones, personal emergency response systems, personal digital assistants, and home monitoring devices have benefited older persons, from reduced loneliness and improved sense of well being to increased competence and feeling of autonomy. Offering an overview of today's assistive technology, "Smart Technologies for Aging, Disability, and Independence: The State of the Science" (Wiley; June 2005; $84.95; Cloth; 0-471-69694-3; http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0471696943.html) discusses how current research and technological developments from engineering, computer science, and the rehabilitation sciences are promoting self-reliance for older persons and those with disabilities.

The text provides a thorough introduction that presents key concepts and terms and identifies current demographic trends. Incorporating detailed product descriptions, photographs, illustrations, and case studies, the book focuses on specific high-technology solutions. The book also examines such areas as basic assistive technologies, human-computer interactions, driving, transportation and community mobility, home modifications and design, and changing standards of elder care.

"The State of the Science" is part of a two-volume series. Available in July 2006, the second volume--"Smart Technologies for Aging, Disability, and Independence: Computing and Engineering Design and Application" is an advanced analysis of the technologies promoting the autonomy of older and disabled persons.

Cutting-edge Technologies Addressed in This Resource Include:

  • Wearable systems
  • Assisted vision and hearing
  • Smart wheelchairs
  • Handheld devices and smart phones
  • Visual sensors
  • Home Automation
  • Assistive robots
  • In-room monitoring systems
  • Telehealth

"Smart Technologies for Aging, Disability, and Independence: The State of the Science" is an essential resource for students and professionals in the rehabilitation sciences, health care providers, researchers in computer science and engineering, and individuals eager to learn more about what is available and what is being developed in assistive technology.

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About the Editor:

William C. Mann, Ph.D., is Professor and Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy and Director of the Rehabilitation Science Doctoral Program at the University of Florida. Since 1991, he has served as Principal Investigator for the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Aging, which is funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. Founder and past Editor of the journal Technology and Disability, Dr. Mann has authored more than 70 articles and book chapters on assistive technology. As an expert on aging and disability, Dr. Mann is a frequent lecturer at local, national, and international conferences and symposiums.

ISBN expands to 13 digits in 2007! For more information, see www.bisg.org/pi

Founded in 1807, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., provides must-have content and services to customers worldwide. Our core businesses include scientific, technical, and medical journals, encyclopedias, books, and online products and services; professional and consumer books and subscription services; and educational materials for undergraduate and graduate students and lifelong learners. Wiley has publishing, marketing, and distribution centers in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbols JWa and JWb. Wiley's Internet site can be accessed at http://www.wiley.com.


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