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Everyday Technology
Technology that supports everyday living is
termed "low technology" or "everyday technology."
The assistive technology devices used in performing
activities of daily living do not involve sophisticated
electronic or computer solutions. Oftentimes,
they are off-the-shelf products from discount
and variety stores which can be adapted to meet
the specific needs of a person with a disability.
Sometimes they are do-it-yourself and one-of-a-kind
solutions. Low technology solutions include
modified door knobs, eating utensils with large
grip surfaces, pen grips, replacing zippers
with Velcro fasteners, and simple talking appliances
like talking watches and talking clocks. Many
individuals without disabilities find that a
number of these items make everyday life simpler
for all.
Four
Activities of Daily Living
Activities of daily living and their
corresponding assistive technology can be categorized
into four areas:
- Shelter – The ability to utilize the
place that we reside encompasses access, safety/security
and sleeping.
Access includes assisitve technology items
such as modified key holders, door knob
turners, light switch extenders, and ramps.
Safety/security can be increased with equipment
like remote control door openers, grab bars
in the bathroom, and medical alert systems.
Sleeping and waking can be enhanced with
items like special hospital beds and vibrating
alarm clocks.
- Personal Care – The ability to fulfill
basic needs such as breathing, eating, toileting,
grooming and hygiene, dressing and health
management.
Breathing can be facilitated with air cleaners.
Eating can be accomplished independently
with adapted utensils and plates.
Toileting can be made easier with modified
toilet seats and lifts.
Grooming and hygiene can be enhanced with
adapted brushes and mirrors.
Dressing can be simplified with devices
like one-handed buttoners, sock pulls and
Velcro fasteners.
Health management can be increased with
devices like splints and supports, blood
pressure kits and pill organizers.
- Interpersonal Relationships
– The ability to participate meaningfully
in relationships with other people.
Communication can be facilitated through
the use of writing aids and communication
boards.
Intimacy can be enhanced through education
and open-minded support.
Child care can be made easier with adapted
cribs and dressing tables and modified baby
seats.
- Home Management
– The ability to independently maintain
a household.
Storage can be facilitated with reachers,
modified storage containers and jar grippers.
Food preparation can be made easier with
stove-knob turners, large handle can openers,
rocking knives and one-handed mix and pour
bowls.
Cleaning can be made possible with devices
like self-wringing mops, long handles and
food catchers.
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