Therapeutic Gloves

Abstract

A therapeutic device includes first and second gloves each having a thumb portion and a plurality of finger portions configured to be worn on first and second hands, respectively; a plurality of magnets each being attached adjacent to a tip of the thumb portion and each of the plurality of finger portions of each of the first and second gloves; and wherein each one of the plurality of magnets is selectively oriented on a respective one of the finger and thumb portions, such that the thumb portion of each glove is attracted to each of the plurality of finger portions of the same glove, each of the plurality of finger portions of the first glove is attracted to each of the plurality of finger portions of the second glove, and the thumb portion of the first glove is attracted to the thumb portion of the second glove.

Description

[0001]This application is based on and claims priority to provisional patent application No. 61 / 978,344 filed on Apr. 11, 2014.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of Invention[0003]The present invention relates to occupational therapy devices for assistance with the development of motor skills, particularly the dexterity of hands.[0004]2. Discussion of the Related Art[0005]Every parent who brings a baby home from the hospital carries with them the hopes and dreams of their child doing wonderful things. They watch their child with anticipation and monitor every milestone. Now imagine the stress and attention a parent places on a developmental problem in the early stages. By age 3 or 4, most children are able to complete fine motor tasks like eating with utensils, brushing their teeth and dressing themselves; but what if dressing themselves, drawing shapes, and playing catch are too challenging to be fun?[0006]Although at first glance it may seem minor, these issues lead to seri...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a therapeutic device that includes gloves with magnets that can help address developmental issues in children, such as fine motor limitations. The gloves are designed to be a fidget toy that children can wear without interfering with their daily activities. The magnets create an enticing new way for children to explore their world and learn to use their hands properly. The repetitive use of the gloves reinforces the correct motor movements. The therapeutic gloves provide a simple and affordable solution for children and adults with fine motor limitations to increase their dexterity. The gloves are non-contraindicated, meaning they are safe and do not create new problems that previously existed.

Problems solved by technology

By age 3 or 4, most children are able to complete fine motor tasks like eating with utensils, brushing their teeth and dressing themselves; but what if dressing themselves, drawing shapes, and playing catch are too challenging to be fun?

Although at first glance it may seem minor, these issues lead to serious detrimental problems as the toddlers make their way through childhood and adolescence.

Children are cognizant of their inability to keep pace with their peers, which leads to a skewed self-perception, little social interaction, and academic difficulty.

Current solutions incorporate sensors, require power sources, and other technologies that greatly increase cost.

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