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I love this infographic on how to make your home more wheelchair accessible. It breaks down the different rooms and adds in things someone might not have thought about on their own. Homes are not usually built with wheelchair accessibility in mind so it is often necessary to make changes.

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This system would be in the educational assistive technology category. It includes text to speech, word prediction, dictation, picture dictionary, graphic organizers, and more. It has many languages embedded in it as well which is useful for ELL individuals. There is also an additional "firefly" subscription. It includes a cloud based library and can help users more easily understand reading materials. It takes the readings and breaks down more difficult words into easier to understand language.

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This app, Rocket Keys works as an alternative communication device. Individuals can design their keyboard by changing the size, color, and layout to what works best for them. The app also allows users to customize the keyboard to have words they use most and utilize word prediction. It has just about any capability of modifications for access you can think of as well. This makes it easier to use for individuals with low vision, tremors, weakness, or inability to use individual fingers. It is only available through the iPad for $159.

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This item works as a switch for alternative access. It could be used during scanning. With it being small and cylindrical it can easily fit in a user’s hand. I think it would be best for clients who do not have great ROM in their upper extremities. This switch would not require a user to reach for a switch or mouse and allow them to keep their hands close to them, even in their lap. As long as the individual has use and mobility in their thumb they could use this switch. The contrasting colors also help anyone with visual impairments more easily see it. 

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PredictGaze is a new, up and coming eye tracking technology. What is especially different/special about this software is the level of recognition it has. They claim it can still recognize the user’s face in the dark with sunglasses on. Lighting and sensitivity can be an issue with some eye gaze technology. Along with eye-tracking the software also includes facial recognition, and gesture controls. By having all these features individuals without motor control can access technology. As with any alternative access it would take practice and training to be able to use it, but is a great option. 

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So, this app is very simple in what it does. It is used for electronic books and allows you to turn the pages by moving your head left or right. It utilizes the front camera on the iPad to sense your movements. For individuals who do not have use of their upper extremities this makes electronic reading possible without having to actually touch the screen to turn pages. This app can be obtained through iTunes. Once you are in this app yes it is helpful, however, an individual would need to use some other sort of extra alternative access to actually get into the application. 

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Electronic Desktop Magnifier

This magnifier is a helpful device for women with low vision potentially due to macular degeneration. It allows them to more easily apply makeup or even tweeze their eyebrows. The camera attaches to the monitor and magnifies the object in front of it. For many women makeup is an important part of their daily routine and makes them feel more confident. With makeup being a value for a lot of women it is an occupation to be addressed by OTs. Having decreased or impaired vision can make completing the IADL of putting on makeup quite difficult. However, being able to see what they are doing more clearly with the aid of the magnification they can apply makeup without the fear of not knowing what it really looks like. 

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This carrier strap is a great assistive device for individuals with use of only one arm or hand. This condition could be due to hemiplegia, amputation, or a congenital disorder. The strap allows individuals to carry larger or wider objects which they would not be able to do independently without. By having the capability to carry a large object such as this laundry basket he or she has the ability to complete laundry without assistance. While laundry is an obvious task this helps with, the basket could be used to carry a greater amount of objects to and from places in the home. It could also be used to carry multiple groceries in the house from the car in one trip. I had never thought of this adaptation and can see it making a big difference for individuals with only one upper extremity. 

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Gaspard Motion Design

For people who spend their days in wheelchairs this wheelchair cushion could actually make a big difference. Pressure sores can be a result of extended sitting which can be very difficult and unpleasant to heal. This smart cushion notifies individuals through their phone if they are in a good position or if they have been sitting in the same position for too long. It also works somewhat in the same way as the Fitbit does by sending push notifications to get the user moving around as much as possible. This cushion allows individuals to take control of their health and helps them be more independent by equipping them with more knowledge.

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