Volume 34| July 2022
Keyboard with Enter key that says Independence
The evolution of technology continues to allow for greater independence for people with disabilities. As we celebrate Independence Day, let's take a look at technology that increases independence!


Reading
Services like Bookshare, Learning Ally and OverDrive can make reading easier for individuals with physical and/or learning disabilities.

Other services, such as Audiobooks, Kindle Audiobooks, Audible, Google Play Books and Apple Books are also available.

If you love the classics and want to access them for free, try LibriVox.

For early readers, check out epic!, Pinna, or the Yoto Player. For a multisensory experience, have them read along in the book!

For books in Braille, there's dApDots, APH, National Braille Press and Braille Book Store. You can also borrow Braille books and book kits from the RIMAC library!


Writing
Writing can also be challenging for individuals with motor challenges and/or learning disabilities. Using Siri or Google to dictate text messages, emails and social media posts can be helpful. There are also great text-to-speech extensions for Chrome.


Mobility
Being able to navigate the environment as independently as possible is important, as is having environments as accessible as possible. For many individuals using mobility aids (wheelchairs, scooters, walkers), gaining access to places and spaces within their community can be challenging.

WheelchairTravel.org has great lists of accessible activities, including this list for Providence, RI. They also have a great travel resources.


Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology can increase the independence of individuals with disabilities within their home environment. Systems such as Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit can integrate many tasks and make them voice accessible.

TechACCESS has received several grants that allow us to evaluate smart home needs and provide equipment. For additional information contact TechACCESS.


Play
Play is an important part of development and social connections. For younger children with physical challenges, they may need an alternate way to access play materials. Switch access allows children to interact with compatible materials to engage in play activities.

You can also adapt games so they are more accessible.

There are also Braille games that allow individuals with visual impairments to participate in activities.

Finally, gaming has become more accessible in recent years, due to to Xbox and Play Station modifications and the Quadstick.


Finding the Right Technology


Mention of products is not an endorsement by TechACCESS.
Contact us
Contact us today for summer or long-term services paid for through private insurance!


Call 401-463-0202 or email Jen Martinous.
You can find additional information and referral forms at our website.


Like the header image? Head over to teachers Pay Teachers and check out the Drawn to AAC page!