Calling Dr. Larsen

Apps for Autism

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:12:00 +0000

Think about how an iPad App might benefit wounded veteran's with TBI.

Sticky Keys

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 02 May 2010 17:24:00 +0000

I type with one finger and I'd be lost without Sticky Keys. It was the first and really essential shortcut I embraced. I use Sticky Keys in place of caps lock to capitalize characters. Additionally, it lets me depress a modifier key (Shift, Ctrl, Alt) or a command key (Windows or Apple key) and it remains active until the next key is pressed.

To enable Sticky Key:
Step 1: Find the accessibility options in your control panel (picture upper-right shows the Universal Access options in the Mac OSX control panel).
Step 2: Configure Sticky Keys to suit your needs via the Keyboard tab.

For more information, see the Sticky Keys article in Wikipedia or this video by Dave Andrews in YouTube.

Simple Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 14:54:00 +0000

I have not been posting enough, so I am starting this new and easy "Simple Tips" posting. I'll regularly post these tips that are perfect for any person living with a disability.

Tip: Learn Common Shortcuts
Learning shortcuts can save you time and repetitive movements.

To Highlight or Select: Press 'Ctrl' + 'A' (For Mac users 'Command or Apple' + 'A').
To Copy: Highlight or Select an area, as shown above, then hold 'Ctrl' + 'C' (For Mac users 'Command or Apple' + 'C').
To Paste: Click your mouse where you want the text pasted, and then press 'Ctrl' + 'V' (For Mac users 'Command or Apple' + 'V').

Business Gains

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 14:35:00 +0000

I encourage persons living with a disability to start a small business--and technology-based enterprises seem to be a popular endeavor. This recent news segment looks at service-disabled veteran-owned small business ownership.

Apple's iPad and Mobility Impairments

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 19:58:00 +0000

Apple Inc. announced this week a new product in their line-up--the iPad. I love my iPhone, but this new product shows promise for someone like me living with mobility impairments. I say this because a light touch is all that's needed to navigate the device. I find reading a newspaper cumbersome, this device will make reading a paper, book, or surfing the net a breeze. Here's how Apple's site lists the iPad's accessibility features:

* Support for playback of closed-captioned content
* VoiceOver screen reader
* Full-screen zoom magnification
* White on black display
* Mono audio

Shown above (image from the Apple website) is a picture of the iPad docked in an optional Keyboard; however, the touch screen of iPad, if like my iPhone, is pretty easy to use...even with virtually no finger dexterity. Accessibility features (see above) currently don't mention Sticky Keys, which is the feature in OS X would want to check on before buying the iPad. It would great if Apple would convene a group of folks living with mobility impairments (maybe they have) and brainstorm ideas of accommodations or software to mimic the screen gestures that make using the touchscreen really convenient. I'll look forward to testing one out and will keep my readers posted.

Project Valour-IT

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0000

I know when I was last hospitalized in the VA in Palo Alto, CA, it was difficult to stay connected for work and email; but that was nearly five years ago. Then, there were no networks available for patients, even if like me, we had our own laptop in tow. I spoke to a few people in the IT department there, but after making no progress, left them with the wish that next time I needed to stay I'd be able to connect.

When I was in Palo Alto last week for an appointment, I whipped out my laptop while waiting and to my surprise there was a wireless network I could join. I've wanted for years to help lead an effort to put computers in the hands of veterans in order to facilitate; patient learning; greater collaboration with an individual's health care team; communication with friends, family, and the outside world; and for building awareness about the power of computers and the Interned and the possibilities for vocations involving information technology.

Today, I read about Project Valour-IT. "In just over four years, [this project] has given 4,100 voice-controlled laptops to severely wounded Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, and has supplied additional items that may be a surprising fit in a recovery regimen -- Wii game systems and handheld GPS devices."

Established in 2003, Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) non-profit providing aid and comfort to members of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, as well as veterans and military families. For more information, see www.soldiersangels.org or call 623-570-3903.

Google Voice—An Audio Care Package

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 22:36:00 +0000

When service members deploy, they primarily put life on hold. Stationed in a different part of the world, their family, friends, and colleagues keep moving. It's typically just not practical for those stateside to receive a phone call at say, 2 a.m., and calling Iraq or Afghanistan is seldom an option. Here’s a solution that Google is offering active duty service members. From the Official Google Blog:

For servicemen and women who are constantly on the move, having a single number and an easy way to retrieve messages from loved ones can be invaluable. To help our service members communicate with their loved ones and show our support to those serving our country, Google is launching a new program. Starting today [8/4/09], any active U.S. service member with a .mil email address can sign up for a Google Voice account at www.google.com/militaryinvite and start using the free service within a day.

Google Voice is coming soon for all of us—to learn more about it, visit: http://www.google.com/googlevoice/about.html. And, if you know a family member of a friend on active duty—share the good news.

Map the Fallen

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Mon, 25 May 2009 19:52:00 +0000

A few weeks ago I wrote about a new initiative of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation that utilized a map to put a face on those affected by spinal cord injuries. This past week at a gathering of veteran entrepreneurs I was privileged to see a preview of another map apropos for launch on Memorial Day. Sean Askay, an engineer at Google, pursued this project on his own time. Sean writes,

This Memorial Day I would like to share with you a personal project of mine that uses Google Earth to honor the more than 5,700 American and Coalition servicemen and women that have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. I have created a map for Google Earth that will connect you with each of their stories—you can see photos, learn about how they died, visit memorial websites with comments from friends and families, and explore the places they called home and where they died.

Check it out! http://www.mapthefallen.org/

I too salute those fallen brothers and sisters that have paid the ultimate price.

iPhone Paper Clip Stand

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 10 May 2009 23:16:00 +0000

I recently wrote a post and article about my fondness for the Apple iPhone 3G. Last fall while traveling to the Northwest, I watched videos on my iPhone to pass time as a passenger driving each 5-hour leg of our journey. It was fantastic except that I struggled to find an acceptable viewing angle for the phone on a tray in my lap. My inventive mind had me designing; my resourceful instinct led to searching the Internet first; and to my surprise I found this:

I'll definitely give it a try; thank you Dean! Read his full post.
Get the template (in PDF) at Dean's website.

But yourself on the map

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Fri, 01 May 2009 04:14:00 +0000

I've been pretty jazzed lately, as after writing a column in PN Magazine for nearly 2 years now and keeping this blog for about half that time, I'm starting to have more readers interacting and writing with questions and comments. Today I received an e-mail from someone promoting the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. The premise of the message was that in order to achieve Chris's dreams, we (those living with a spinal cord injury or those that care about them) need to increase awareness about paralysis and its effects on our fellow citizens. His letter said that more eloquent than me:

In light of startling new estimates regarding the number of people living with paralysis, the Reeve Foundation wants to use online technologies to put faces to the statistics. That's why we created the Paralysis Community Map. Our goal is to have one million people put themselves on this online map to illustrate the strength of the paralysis community.

So, here's a word of encouragement. STOP what you're doing. Click on the link above. You put yourself on the map.

There is Hope that Things will Get Better

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:08:00 +0000

Education is a focus in this column and blog. Following my Google alerts today, I read a hopeful article that indicates things could get better for the disabled because of a new generation of concerned students. Specifically, the article states,

the fact of the matter is that the human dimension thrives at a new breed of universities, which are now serving up state-of-the-art, adaptive technology courses for civically engaged engineering students who want to make the world a better place for the disabled.

Read the entire article.

And here's the evidence. Last weekend I watched this 60-Minutes segment and marveled at the Pentagon's effort to produce a bionic arm.

Watch CBS Videos Online

How ironic that the iBot (I use one) is now off the market because insurance companies and policymakers wouldn't pay for it.

Coraline and VFX Magic

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 06:36:00 +0000

Did you see Coraline yet? I wrote about it a few weeks ago when it was first out. Well, so often I'm touting the idea of technology work as a profession. If you're a creative type and developed the skills needed, what about working on a movie like a member of my family did? Adam was, "...hired by LAKIA ENTERTAINMENT to work on the VFX team responsible for removing the puppets' face seams throughout every frame of the movie." If you'd like to see how some of the magic happened, checkout this example of his work.

Adam C Sager's Coraline VFX REEL from Adam C Sager on Vimeo.

More about Adam at: http://sagerdigital.com

Where to get the iPhone and Accessories

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 23:24:00 +0000

My latest article for the Computer Corner in Paraplegia News just appeared this month and today I received an e-mail from a reader asking where he could get the iPhone and accessories I wrote about. Well, if you're interested also, I thought I would just put links here for you. Please know that the iPhone is only available from AT&T wireless or directly from Apple. I'm providing you a link to AT&T wireless, but if you have an Apple store near you you can drop in and test it out before you purchase.

So, here's the phone that I purchased, the Apple iPhone 3G - 16 GB - Black.

The case I recommend is the BELLA Protective Leather Case for iPhone 3G by Macally (Color: Black). It features a scratch resistant protective screen overlay; Nappa leather front panel; neck lanyard; lightweight aluminum carabiner; microsuede interior; camera opening; high density, soft and durable back panel; and opening to all controls and parts.

IT Training for Veterans

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 20:41:00 +0000

If you're a reader of my column, Computer Corner in PN Magazine, or regularly read this blog, you know my background is education and that I often encourage individuals to learn more--that is learn all you can! Well today I came across an opportunity for both U.S. veterans and persons living with a disability, the CompTIA Educational Foundation.

The Educational Foundation’s Creating Futures program provides students, IT workers, employers, training providers and educational institutions with the necessary components to build a qualified and diverse workforce. Through the program, transitioning U.S. veterans, individuals with disabilities, youth-at-risk and dislocated workers are given opportunities to build life long, productive and rewarding careers in IT.

Check out their offerings and if you apply and complete a course, leave a comment here for other readers.

A Nifty New Tool--Google Latitude

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:43:00 +0000

Hansel and Gretel gathered white pebbles to leave a trail so they'd find their way home; it didn't work out the way they wanted. As a person dependent on technologies to get around, there have been times I've been stuck (a dead car battery, flat tire, or bent front-fork) with no means of getting help right away. Google Latitude is a new tool that might provide an extra layer of security for persons like me when stranded.

Here's how it can work:

I go to town (via wheelchair) and am expected home at 3 p.m.
Making my way home, I unexpectedly hit a sharp object and blow a tire--the jolt has my cellphone fly off my lap.
Not home on time, a family member (Brad) calls about 3:10 p.m.--I don't answer because I can't reach my phone.
Smartly, I've installed Google Latitude on my cellphone and allow him to see my location. At 3:20 p.m., more concerned as time elapses, Brad tracks my location via Latitude and sees that I'm nearly home but haven't moved in awhile.
Brad comes to my rescue.

With Google Latitude, you can:

See where your friends are and what they are up to
Quickly contact them with SMS, IM, or a phone call
Control what your location is and who gets to see it

Enjoy Google Latitude on your phone, PC, or both.

Postscript: I haven't tested this as Google Latitude isn't ready for the iPhone just yet. I'll be sure to let you know when it is.

The Good, Bad, and Disappointing News

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:47:00 +0000

As some of you readers know, I use an iBOT 4000 to navigate daily live. The iBOT is the predecessor of the Segway Personal Transporter (PT); I've been following the PT for use by disabled veterans on this blog for years. The "good" news is that my iBOT and the PT are tools that free humans living with a disability to be and do more in their daily lives. The "bad" news is that disabled persons find themselves having to fight to aquire and use these transformational devices. The "disappointing" news is that, "Independence Technology L.L.C. is no longer selling and marketing the iBOT® Mobility System." After 2013 I won't even be able to repair my iBOT (Pictured: There I am with my sister Karen and her friend Geri with horse).

More "good" news is that when people work together they can move mountains. Disability Rights Advocates for Technology (DRAFT) provides "advocacy and education services as an advocate for the adoption of Universally Designed Technology Solutions." The organization has been able to help on a number of fronts through its advocacy and their "Segs4Vets" program, which has awarded more than 250 Segways to veterans and active duty members of the United States military through 2008. If you're a veteran that would benefit...check them out.

iBOT owners; unite!

Coraline the Movie

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 22:09:00 +0000

I've been absent awhile; working too hard I guess. Well today I am heading to the movies to see Coraline. Now what does this have to do with technology you ask, well a family member worked on the project in a technology related role. Congratulations Adam Sager, I'll look for your name in the credits.

So, if you need a distraction from the bad news or a break too, go see the movie. Oh, and by the way, the Coraline website is fantastic! You too can "button" your eyes. Have fun ;)

Shooting Skeet

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 20:47:00 +0000

My brother called earlier today and asked if I wanted to go skeet shooting with him next weekend. Last time I went hunting with my brother I was probably 14 years old (he would have been 17) and fairly confident he wasn't excited that I was going along. Now, I don't spend a lot of time with my older brother and I do like a challenge, so I'm thinking, what the hell, I'll give it a try.

Not knowing what to expect I did a quick Google search for "quadriplegic shooting skeet" and I found the following movie.

You might be asking yourself, "What does skeet shooting have to do with technology?" I concede that you are right in thinking that the intention of my column and its focus on technology is a little different than the broader definition provided in Wikipedia that states, "Technology is a broad concept that deals with a species' usage and knowledge of tools and crafts, and how it affects a species' ability to control and adapt to its environment." So you see, the technology featured in the movie above is merely a primitive adaptation. Let also me remind the reader that this blog is additionally about living with a mobility impairment, with the emphasis on "living;" and in life it's all about experience. I'll work on getting some pictures on what we come up with.

New e-Ink Reader: coming soon

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 18:40:00 +0000

As a person living with quadriplegia I loathe reading the morning paper. I begin with a headline and maybe one paragraph, my interest is now captured, and before you know it the editor forces me to continue the article in another section, on another page, and then find the right column in order to continue reading. And all the while, I struggle to manage an unwieldy and awkwardly sized, flimsy and dirty bunch of paper; I hate it! To address my issues with the medium of newspaper, I have been searching for the right solution by following the development and marketing of e-Ink readers, mainly the Amazon Kindle, Sony Reader, and iRex iLiad e-Reader. I was excited the other day to read that more competition is on the horizon, though this newcomer promises to focus on a different niche--the needs of the business reader.

The Plastic Logic reader supports a full range of business document formats, such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint, and Adobe PDFs, as well as newspapers, periodicals and books. It has an easy gesture-based user interface and powerful software tools that will help business users to organize and manage their information. Users can connect to their information either wired or wirelessly and store thousands of documents on the device. The reader incorporates E Ink technology for great readability and features low power consumption and long battery life. The Plastic Logic reader is scheduled to ship in the first half of 2009.

I'll continue to follow developments in the e-Ink/eReader market and report back here and in my column in PN Magazine. And when I finally get my hands on the different options, I'll let you know what I think. Until then, here is a video with a close-up look at the newest guy on the block...enjoy!

“Democratization” of technology: Will it happen?

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 18:44:00 +0000

This political season we are hearing so much about change. I recently wrote, that I am ready to help usher in a new era—the “democratization” of technology. I use the term “democratization,” referencing Daniel Boorstin’s work, The Americans: The Democratic Experience, where Boorstin describes democracy as elevated beyond its definition as a form of government to a filter in which nearly every aspect of modern life was reshaped.

Here's an article that describes new uses of inexpensive "SmartHome" technology leading to a day when we don't actively engage the computer, but passively live with it to improve our lives.

SmartHome uses sensors on home walls, floors, and furniture that connects to a computer. It does not require people to wear monitors or buttons. The sensors send alert signals of falls, medication reminders, and even early disease detections, like arthritis, back to a centralized computer.

Developers said the sensors are affordable and easy to install. They haven’t set specific prices yet to fully install a home, but did say the technology uses sensors priced around $80.

Wow, what times we live in. Read the full article.

Christopher Reeve: Hope in Motion

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 03:59:00 +0000

Living life with a disability isn't an easy thing. For some, it is difficult to talk about, to share the intimate details, the frustrations, and the challenges. I am adding this film to my blog in hopes that it can speak for those that struggle to tell their story and find their own voice.

Choosing a Laptop: accessorizing

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 17:09:00 +0000

My next article for the Computer Corner in PN Magazine, due out July 1, focuses on choosing a laptop. In the piece I promised to share photos and information on my blog about the accessories I have chosen to make me 1) comfortable, 2) productive, 3) mobile, and nearly totally 4) independent. I start with a few photos and then I'll describe each attribute and the products that support it.

Comfortable
If your are someone like me who has used a wheelchair for very long you sometimes end-up feeling like a shopping cart; everything lands on your lap. If it happens to frequently be a laptop computer you can find yourself lugging a heavy, fragile, and often hot piece of equipment. Solution: the ADA Lap, a universal system that simply slides under your wheelchair cushion. I like the product so much I decided to make them available here on my blog. The ADA Lap lifts off your lap the hot, heavy, and awkward objects you encounter throughout the course of daily life.

Productive
For me productivity equates to connectivity. Around the house and in most work environments connecting to the World Wide Web is easily achieved via a wireless router (803.11b/g). I travel frequently though and find myself in meetings and lodging where either the network is closed to guests or requires payment. Solution: a Sprint Wireless Connection Data Card and services account. You'll need to size-up your computer and which solution works best for you, Sprint is not the only provider offering data cards and services, but I've been extremely happy with the USB style card and Sprint's network availability. This is not an inexpensive undertaking, but figuring that staying just three nights in a hotel and paying for an Internet connection can equal the cost of monthly service, not to mention the hours of vehicle travel that can now serve as work time, its a solution I find pays off.

Mobile
Connectivity isn't everything when it comes to working a full day online. Even just browsing the web and emailing, two rather simple tasks that do not require a lot of processing power, can drain a laptop battery in roughly 2.5 hours. Solution: a long-life external battery from Battery Geek. This too is not an inexpensive solution at $299; however, my choice of units extends my unconnected (to AC power) usage from 2.5 to over 8 hours and comes with a case that allows the unit to hang neatly behind my chair back. I found their staff very knowledgeable and responsive to my questions; check them out on the web at: www.batterygeek.net.

Independent
This attribute isn't easily linked to one part of the system but represents to collective benefits of all the parts. That said, there's on accessory I haven't profiled yet that both supports firmly and allows independent adjustment of a laptop. Solution: the Targus Podium CoolPad which raises the back edge of your notebook to increase airflow, improving the cooling efficiency of your laptop. It also allows for a 360-degree rotation of your computer, making it ideal for small presentations, while the six small rubber pads on the bottom provide a tight grip, ideal for wheelchair travelers. And finally, this is an inexpensive part of the system at under $20; shop for them on the web at: http://www.google.com/products?hl=en&q=Podium+CoolPad&scoring=p.

All in all I've been very happy with my choice of accessories. When I purchased the ADA Lap Base, I ordered an extra piece of Velcro Hook to secure the CoolPad.

If you buy it here, see below, note that it will come with the Base Unit and 4"Velcro Hook for $195 (+ 7.25% sales tax if you're from CA); a savings of $21 over MSRP with S&H. Additionally, I'll donate $5 of each purchase to the Paralyzed Veterans of America.

ADA Lap Base & 4" Velcro Hook (Shipping Included) $195

Technology Changing Human Performance

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 05:36:00 +0000

Technology empowers me. As someone who's lived through the initial trauma of a spinal cord injury at age twenty, I'm certain had I lived a century ago I would never survived the first few days, let alone lived a full and productive life for twenty-nine additional years and still be going strong. Servomechanisms and PCs allow me to drive independently; I connect remotely to work via a laptop and data and telecommunication networks; and this past January I received a chair outfitted with gyros and three computers that enables me to once again communicate eye-to-eye with another standing adult. Wow how my life has changed!

Oscar Pistorius has a feel-good story too. He runs very fast, so fast he may compete in the Olympics; but on carbon fiber legs.

He has overcome unusual limitations as a disabled athlete. But his bid for the Olympics with artificial legs also raises fresh questions about what it means to be human.

Having not formed an opinion yet I am conflicted. On one hand I think, "You go Oscar!" On the other, I question whether the technology that empowers him makes for fair competition. I rest in the fact I don't have to decide. I urge you to read the full article and decide.

Independence...

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 04:07:00 +0000

"bold, italicized, underlined and Capitalized." Those are Todd Stabelfeldt's remarkable words. I don't know Todd, but I certainly respect and appreciate his drive, ambition, and example. How many times have I heard from someone, "I am sorry," when they first learn that I use a wheelchair to navigate life. Often, my first response is, "Don't be sorry, I lead a very full and wonderful life." Society too often treats those living with a disability as persons who deserve/need pity; far from it. If you doubt what I say, pay closer attention to the language used to describe persons living with a disability. "He is confined to a wheelchair." "She suffers from paralysis." "They overcome their disabilities."

Okay, off the soapbox! Take time to read Todd Stabelfeldt's story. Be inspired. Use technology to make yourself more independent.

Robots here we come!

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. Larsen (Kurt)) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:57:00 +0000

Okay, space exploration and going to the moon gave us Tang (the orange juice substitute that I never liked, but my mom always bought), but now I am reading that defense research is slated to help the disabled? I guess that makes sense; however, maybe if the human race decided that wars were not a smart answer to our conflicts, we'd have a lot fewer persons forced to live life with missing limbs, body parts and function. That aside, back to the focus of my entry today.

It seems the Japanese will will now begin budgeting for research on using defense technologies to solve problems of persons living with a disability.

Among devices envisioned by the ministry is a device for helping people with weakened muscles walk by making use of the application of robot-related technology, sources told The Yomiuri Shimbun.

Wow, what times we live in. Read the full article.