Woman in wheelchair smiling in a snowy field.

Accessible Times:

UATP Newsletter

November 2024

Winter Safety and Independence: Assistive Technology Tips for Utah's Cold Months

Staying safe and independent during Utah’s harsh winter months is essential, especially for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. Assistive technology offers a range of solutions to help navigate icy conditions and cold weather more easily. Mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers can be outfitted with winter tires or ice grips to improve traction on slippery surfaces. For those who struggle with outdoor maintenance, electric snow shovels or snow removal services can be lifesavers in keeping pathways clear and accessible.

Black gloves with touchscreen fingertips touching a smartphone.

Image: Touchscreen gloves touching screen of smartphone.

Inside the home, smart technology can enhance safety and comfort. Smart thermostats can ensure your home stays warm and cozy, while home monitoring systems allow you to check on loved ones or call for help in case of an emergency. It’s also helpful to keep emergency kits with essential items such as backup batteries for power wheelchairs, chargers for communication devices, and hand warmers.

For those traveling or commuting, consider adaptive devices like heated cushions for wheelchairs, hand grips with built-in heaters, or touchscreen gloves to stay connected while on the go. Preparing for winter by stocking up on non-perishable food, medications, and fuel for any backup power sources will help you maintain independence during severe storms. With the right tools and a bit of planning, you can stay safe, comfortable, and self-sufficient all season long.

Check Out Our Recent Blog Posts!

Sam Young using haptic pen in Innovation Hub.

New Club on Campus: Community for Human Innovation

The Community for Human Innovation (CHI) is a new club on campus about intersecting assistive technology and the biomedical fields. Students from all areas of interest, but especially those in the Kinesiology Program and other medical departments are invited to join.

Continue Reading about CHI...

Sara and John at their wedding in front of bed of flowers.

Finding Love and Independence: The Power of Assistive Technology

Sara and John Beard's love story began with a chance meeting at a festival, a wheelchair from the Utah Assistive Technology Program (UATP), and a little bit of fate.

In 2011, John had to get a double amputation surgery. Though he received an electric wheelchair, it quickly stopped working properly. He said, “I got home and it started having a lot of problems. They couldn't get anyone to fix it.”

Continue Reading Sara and John's story...

Getting to Know the UATP: Staff Highlight

Dan O'Crowley

Dan started working for UATP in 2016 and is the AT Coordinator at the UATP Logan office. He is a mechanical engineer, Assitive Technology Professional, and Rehabilatative Engineering Technologist. Dan enjoys designing and creating new products, with a personal favorite being the combination of an exoskeleton and a segway. Dan also enjoys construction projects and is often helping family or friends on the weekends with remodels or repairs.

Updates and Events

Logan UATP hosted an adaptive gaming night at the USU Esports arena! There will be more game nights to come, dates will be announced on our social media pages.
Next Demo Day Dates: Dec 3, Jan 7, Feb 4. Stop by any of our lab locations from 10am - 2pm to learn about the UATP and our services.