Grip It & Write

Oftentimes individuals with developmental disabilities have fine or gross motor delays. Therefore, writing can be a laborious task as gripping a pencil and writing legibly may be difficult. To combat this challenge an occupational therapist may offer an individual a diverse series of pencil grips depending on their needs and specific disability. Examples of some disabilities that may benefit from using a pencil grip include but are not limited to, dysgraphia, hypermobility, hypotonia, arthritis, and autism. However, not all with fine motor difficulties may choose to use or enjoy using pencil grips

Every individual has their own preference on which grip works best for them. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, sizes, and materials. Usually they are inexpensive with a price tag not exceeding $3 dollars. Some of the pencil grips include but are not limited to the…

·     Claw- Allows the user to put their fingers in a tripod grasp by placing fingers in the cups.

·     Pinch Grip- Provides comfort and support. Helps the writer put their fingers in the proper aliment simply making use of the indents on the grip.

·     Stetro- Has three contours to place fingers in an efficient position. It has little support. Many people use it incorrectly.

·     Grotto- A ridged grip that prevents displacement of fingers. This can be uncomfortable to some people.

·     Crossover- Has wings that stop an individual from crossing their thumb & index finger when writing Soft and rubbery to the touch.

·     Twist N’ Write- Y shaped lead pencil that teaches children proper finger placement. To write the child must put their index finger, and then their thumb and middle finger through the sides.

·     Monkey- Stabilizes the thumb and index finger on the sides of the pencil while the rest of the fingers hold the monkey’s tail.

·     Handi Writer- Supports wrist while writing.

·     Egg grip- Can be used for individuals with arthritis as it allows them to use a more cylindrical grasp. 

Occupational therapist often see their clients misplace their fingers on a pencil or just press too hard. In this predicament, they have the option to use a pen or mechanical pencil. A mechanical pencil trains the individual to not press so hard because the tip will break. On the other hand, a pen provides fluidity for letter/word formation. Unlike a regular pencil, a pen does not offer resistance, therefore requiring less control and pressure. Whereas this may be helpful for some, others may require a pencil which provides them with more feedback.

Prior to writing this blog I intentionally chose to use the pencil grips for research purposes. However, I found them to be quite uncomfortable to use. That being said, with years of experience I know how to use a pencil without a grip adequately. Though I can see how they would facilitate individuals with daily writing tasks.

For further information or inquires please feel free to contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com.

Bead Power!

                      

It is not unusual for persons with disabilities to unconsciously drop or misplace their smartphone. This can wreak havoc because an abundance of people are inept to retrace their steps or just simply can’t go through the aggravation of reclaiming their phone. Unfortunately, they can’t depend on the astuteness of strangers to help them in times of need. The average person might undeniably be overwhelmed with his or her own issues incapable of helping others. As a result, everyone has to fend for themselves. The only logical alternative is to contact the phone carrier to request a replacement phone. For individuals who do not carry monthly insurance this can create financial repercussions.

Unlike the Average Joe, the cell phone for patrons with disabilities is not a luxury but a necessity. They require it to sustain their personal independence and cannot live without it. In order to eliminate the austere burden, one can purchase a beaded cellphone case by Susan Marie. She is an independent artist who creates an array of fashion jewelry and accessories. Much of her work is customizable. Upon placing an order for a beaded cell phone case you must let her know what cell phone model you have. They come in an array of vivacious colors, shapes and sizes. It can be worn around the neck or wrist. There is no need to fret about misplacing your cell phone anymore!  The cell phone clutch is a mere $40, a drop in the bucket,  considering how much cell phone accessories cost today.

I received mine as a gift from my parents. When I saw it, I felt it was unique. Since I’m disabled I use it frequently for my phone, keys and ID. I wear it around my neck so I can have the imperative items readily available. If you purchase one, I can promise you will not be disappointed by the quality. Since Christmas is right around the corner, it would make an excellent stocking stuffer.

For further inquiries on how to get a hold of one of these or other inventory please contact Susan Marie at 914.525. 4204. Please tell her I referred you!

911!

 

Oftentimes individuals with disabilities and seniors are susceptible to many medical emergencies. If they don’t receive adequate medical attention within several minutes it can often lead to catastrophic repercussions. For example, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall. As a result, many individuals are forced into buying Life Alert or similar products.   There are disadvantages to using Life Alert, which include costly subscription plans, and it can only be accessed with a phone line (mobile or landline). Now there is a cost-effective feasible alternative called SmartGo Waterproof Emergency Alert Pendent.

Help Now Alarm Company, which developed the SmartGo Pendant, stands out from its competitors. The company provides emergency assistance that has complementary service and doesn’t require a phone line. Depending on where the device is purchased it costs anywhere from $99-$150.  The SmartGo pendant is small and lightweight in stature. It has a rubbery waterproof exterior that makes it easy to grasp. Three electrifying color variations that include pink, black and blue make it effortless to keep track of. SmartGo offers 2-way communication that lets you have 911 operators at your fingertips. Just press and hold the SOS button for three seconds and an emergency dispatcher will come on. You can use the device anywhere life takes you. In the blink of an eye, it can save your life! However, this device is inaccessible for the deaf and nonverbal as they can't effectively communicate with the 911 dispatcher. 

Since I’m physically impaired and suffer from migraines I purchased the SmartGo last month on HSN. It lets me go about my business with ease. I don’t have to fret about what can arise during an emergency. For me, this is crucial because my phone is not always charged or on my person.  The alarm comes with a lanyard charging cradle, wall adapter, and USB cord. I wear it around my neck to have it readily available in times of emergency. Hopefully, I will not have to use it anytime soon, but I have it just in case.

Never underestimate what can transpire to you or your loved ones. The gizmo practically pays for itself. I think this technology can be advantageous to anyone. Every household in America should own at least one.

 For further inquiries and testimonials, please go to www.helpnowalarmco.com or email me at techblogspot89@gmail.com 

Prime Time!

Shopping is quite an inconvenience for individuals with disabilities. Barriers can deter patrons from completing their errands. Two major areas of difficulty for individuals with disabilities, that form an integral part of the in-person shopping experience, are traveling and accessibility. Family members then must step in to carry out these mundane obligations. As a result, consumers might lose their sense of self-worth or independence. Online shopping is a feasible alternative to the traditional shopping experience. It can even help to alleviate stress from daily routines. It is not called retail therapy for nothing, and it is unfair to make this supposedly fun experience unnecessarily cumbersome for people with disabilities.

One of the services that can be easily utilized by one and all, no matter any disability, is Amazon.com. Amazon.com is the largest online monopoly in the world. The company provides goods and services to its patrons with the click of a button (toys, clothes, electronics, and video streaming are but a few of the products they sell).  Business mogul extraordinaire Jeff Benzos gave light to the company in 1994. Since then his establishment has grown to meet the demands of the consumers.

When using Amazon, folks don’t have to travel, wait on long lines, interact with sales representatives, get products off the shelf or find a bathroom (that more often than not, is hard to get to). Luckily, everything can be done from the comfort of one’s home or on the go via the Amazon app. Individuals can view the website and find items in a matter of a few seconds. Unlike stores, consumers can shop 24/7.

  

An additional service provided by Amazon, for a fee, is Amazon Prime membership.  For instance, prime members can receive free 2-day shipping and exceptional customer service.

 The Amazon prime membership is an annual subscription service with a slew of benefits. The annual fee costs a mere $119. Some perks with prime include:

·    Prime Pantry is non-perishable groceries delivered to your doorstep for $4.99 a month.

·    Prime Fresh is a grocery delivery service for an additional 14.99 a month. It is only available in select cities.

·    Prime Music offers popular music free of charge

·    Prime Video is an exclusive video streaming service.

·    Prime Reading allows limitless access to a multitude of diverse literature, (magazines, books, comics) even Audible is now a part of the Amazon package.

·    Prime Now is same-day delivery at no extra cost to the consumer. This service is only available in certain locations.

·    Prime Day is a 2-day holiday in July with incredulous discounts on amazing one-of-a-kind items.

In the end, members will recoup that money with all the deals and steals. Amazon Prime is known for its reliability and convenience. Amazon has dominated the retail industry for quite some time. Millennial’s are susceptible to shopping online versus going to the store. On the flipside, one should remember, that when shopping in person, there is a lot of human interaction that is not part of the online shopping experience.  And when shopping online, no physical activity is required.  

I’ve been an ardent member for the past four years. It was one of my niftiest moves. Prime has made shopping extremely easy. I don’t have to fret about people not wanting to help me. I’m no longer subjected to carrying shopping bags on my walker that make it strenuous to maneuver.  In addition, their customer service is very accommodating. If I have a legit issue they are always enthusiastic about making things right. I wholeheartedly endorse Amazon prime and believe everyone should consider becoming a supporter. You will not regret it!

For further inquiries, feel free to contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com or comment below!

Speak!!!!

"Touchchat opens the world to communication that the person didn't previously have"

Elyse Goldshein MS, CCC, SLP

Touchchat is a multifaceted communications app that improves the lives of those with limited or no verbal ability. With the simple touch of a button, your smart device will speak an array of phrases, sentences, and words. The app is divided into page sets that make it easy to navigate the system. Individuals with ALS, Down's syndrome, and Autism, to name but a few, can now reclaim their independence without an expensive dedicated device. The app is compatible with all smart devices including iPhones iPads and iPods.

The program features eight different page sets that include:

·       4 Basic  Simple vocabulary with four buttons per page (About me, social, clothes)

·       MyCore core words with phrases to make complete sentences  

·       Spelling Keyboard that uses word prediction.

·       VocabPC  Action phrases and sentences 12 buttons per page (I feel happy, Hello, nice to meet you)

·       Aphasia designed for people with Aphasia

·       MultiChat 15  Advanced communication with  (phrases, words and sentences chat question and describe)         

·       MyQuickChat  Quick words and phrases to express basic wants and needs.

·       WordPower a collection of vocabulary files that are organized into diverse groups

Page sets are broken into a myriad of pages that have intuitive buttons. Each page set caters to a broad spectrum of disabilities.

Based on an individuals  preference and/or intellectual needs the pages, buttons, voice messages, photos, vocabulary and layout can all be personalized. Photos are imported into the program with the built-in camera or the Internet Voice messages can be recorded with the voice synthesizer. Buttons can be dragged from one location to another. Unknown vocabulary words can be saved for future reference.

What I found most crucial was its ability to work with various programs such as Dropbox, Gmail and Youtube. For people with communication difficulties, this app is not only essential, but also fun and convenient given all life throws at us. For beginners, I feel that it is extremely easy to learn because they structure the material according to age and ability. The pictures are helpful for those with limited understanding of the vocabulary. The word prediction was excellent for me since I have fine motor delays. Those who are unable to press the buttons might require assistance when using Touchchat. Touchchat is $300, and is often covered by insurance when in a locked format.

For further information, please contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com or comment below.

Crank up the volume!

Engrossed with electronics from an early age Dr. Amar G. Bose built an affluent radio repair business. While employed at MIT in 1964, he chose to broaden his horizons by establishing his own company called Bose. By studying psychoacoustics, it led him to invent state-of-the-art audio merchandise like no other of that time. Building on prior algorithms, Bose has become a monumental pioneer in the audio entertainment industry.

The SoundLink Color Bluetooth Speaker is engineered with the consumers’ needs in mind. Whether you are at the poolside or in the office, you can have your music readily available. Weighing 1.2lbs makes it convenient and easy to transport. In addition, the lithium-ion battery sports a battery life of up to eight hours. The sturdy water resistant soft exterior enables the speaker to withstand everyday wear and tear. You can activate countless features with the press of a button. Unlike similar devices, it delivers voice prompts to easily connect with a myriad of bluetooth devices including smartphones, tablets, and computers. It offers an extraordinary wireless range of 30 feet.

The Bose Connect app permits you to customize your settings based on your own personal preferences. Through the app, you can simultaneously alternate between diverse modes (DJ, Party, and Stereo) and receive quality customer support.

Bose designs their merchandise to be accessible to everyone on different platforms. Since I have physical and mental disability I am extremely fascinated with the many unique features it has to offer. I utilize it to listen to an assortment of audiobooks, music, and voice memos. The dynamic sound is so crisp and clear that I never miss a beat. The voice prompts walked me through the pairing of my devices. Since I am an enthusiastic auditory learner, it has been a crucial component in my success. The function I appreciate most is that I can answer calls hands-free.

I strongly urge anyone interested in a portable speaker to consider purchasing one. While the Soundlink Color is quite pricey at $129, its superb sound and impressive functionality make it a worthwhile investment. You won't regret it!

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com or watch the video below!

https://youtu.be/taA06qCPK2U

Brushing your way to a healthy smile!!!

‘’Good oral health is so important to one’s overall health. ” Dr Pat Seagriff

Oral hygiene is an imperative skill for everyone - no matter your age, background or ability.  Taking good care of your teeth and gums, will not only benefit your whole body, but also your smile and confidence.  Brushing, flossing and rinsing regularly on a daily basis, is pertinent to one's well-being.

There are a number of tools available to facilitate this process.  One can use a regular toothbrush and a length of floss, or a battery operated toothbrush and a flosser with a holder.  But, if you really want to embrace all that the latest technology offers, you can consider the Oral B Genius Pro 8000.

For decades, The Oral-B brand has been a monumental pioneer in the dental hygiene industry. They provide multifaceted state-of-the-art electric toothbrushes that exceed ADA standards. All their products are backed by clinical research. The company prides itself on safety and effectiveness.  Using an electric toothbrush is the best way to improve one’s oral health. Their brush heads and handle are extremely effective at sweeping away at plaque and food debris.  Brushing twice a day and limiting sugary snacks is a vital way to avoid cavities.

Oral-B is the most trusted brand recommended by dentists worldwide.  The elite Oral-B Genius Pro 8000 is the world’s first exquisite toothbrush to offer position detection. The 3-D sensors allow you to maintain a healthy smile since they monitor your brushing habits via Bluetooth.  Then the intricate app translates the useful information based on your desired needs. It makes you cognizant of your brushing behavior and has a two-minute timer. Each cutting-edge Oral-B electric toothbrush has a rotating, oscillating, and pulsating head that breaks up plaque, sweeping it away. There are four brushing modes (whitening , sensitivity, tongue and deep clean) with  diverse interchangeable heads that give you a one-of-a-kind brushing experience (CrossAction, Whitening, Flossing , and DeepSweep)

Individuals with developmental disabilities tend to have poor dental hygiene. It would behoove them to use the Oral-B toothbrush. Caretakers can tailor the toothbrush to fit their loved ones needs right from the app and share the brushing feedback with their dentist. To gain full access to the app, you must attach it to your bathroom mirror using the suction cups on the back, so the camera can watch you brush. This can teach the disabled person how to brush their teeth. Tooth debris can be removed easily: simply by massaging the gums and teeth in a circular pattern. This will reduce inflammation and bleeding which is common among people with disabilities. Children and adults alike have almost the same oral hygiene problems.

I recently purchased my Oral-B toothbrush on Amazon for $157.  That price included a 3 year protection plan.  The toothbrush came with a charger, carrying case, cell phone holder and brush heads. I decided to buy it because I needed better dental support. It was highly recommended to me by my dentist. Since I’ve been using it I haven’t had any plaque or tartar . I use the toothbrush everyday with the CrossAction brush head. It does a superb job at cleaning my teeth. I will never go back to a manual brush! In my opinion, I feel Oral-B deserves five stars. It offers more features than any other toothbrush on the market. I feel I can’t live without it.  Always remember when you brush don’t rush!!

For further information, please contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com or watch the video below!!!  https://youtu.be/Pco4M1livyg

Give me a hand!

The Unger enterprise was established in Hamburg Germany in 1964. They offer exceptional cleaning tools for diverse milieus. Their products take the hassle out of cleaning. Unger has become one of the leading competitors in the professional cleaning industry. Some of the products they have include; squeegees, buckets, microfiber cloths, chemicals and grabbers. They value superiority and safety when designing products.

The NiftyNabber® Pro grabber is like no other of its kind. It gives you an eco-friendly alternative to picking up garbage and other objects. You can easily maneuver and manipulate the gizmo by squeezing the handle. The robust rugged claws can withstand a lot of stress without dismantling. The compact and portable design allows for easy storage. This item can be purchased on Amazon for $31.30

Individuals with disabilities can use this device to promptly carry out everyday tasks such as retrieving objects from a shelf or closing a door. The NiftyNabber® Pro can help people live independent and healthy lives since they do not have to bend or strain themselves. Individuals with severe dexterity issues might have difficulty utilizing the grabber. Instead, they can use it as a stick to knock items off the shelf or pull things to them. Since I am an extremely practical person, I utilize the grabber to push my shoes off my feet on a daily basis.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns on this device or future topics please contact me at tecblogspot89@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you!

More Juice Please!!!

For the past 20 years, DiGiPOWER Electronics Company has provided us with phenomenal digital accessories. They market state-of-the-art products that are for a convenient fast-paced lifestyle. Some of their merchandise includes camera accessories, power cables, power chargers and power banks. The company prides itself on compatibility and reliability.

The 4-port USB wall charger allows you to charge four devices effortlessly, at once, in the blink of an eye. Its built-in technology automatically senses your gadgets when synced together. This charger will expeditiously charge everything that is USB friendly.

Given that it is durable, portable and travel friendly, I find it especially suitable for individuals with disabilities. They can have multiple devices charging simultaneously with one wall unit. By utilizing this device, it offers a stress-free experience. Individuals who are physically impaired might require some assistance when charging their devices. You can get your hands on one of these for $30. If you need to charge a variety of devices at the same time, this would be a great investment.

For further inquiries, please comment below or email me at techblogspot89@gmail.com

Get a Grip!!!!

Get a Grip
Popsockets are nifty electronic accessories that attaches to the back of a smartphone or tablet. They function as a grip, kickstand, and cord wrap. Individuals can take superb selfies with the click of a button. Pop it twice to expand and collapse it to lay it flat. Popsockets are extremely beneficial when playing games, reading books, and watching movies.

Companies can advertise their business by having their logo printed on Popsockets. In addition, individuals can customize their own personalized grip with their photos and choice of colors. Each accessory has refined designs and colors that accentuate its features. Their prices range from $10-$15. Retailers from across the board sell this wonderful device.

Patrons with Parkinson’s disease and arthritis express infinite gratitude for the product. These consumers see them as “life changers”. They are able to manipulate their phone independently without the fear of dropping it. The Popsocket mount attaches to any surface.  This enables individuals with disabilities to use their phone hands-free especially while driving.

Since I am on a modest budget, I love that they are inexpensive. I enjoy perusing all the snazzy designs and materials. Sometimes, the adhesive does not stick to all iPhone cases or they lose their stickiness over time. In that case, you would have to get a new one. It is extremely lightweight and easy for me to use. Everyone should take advantage of its benefits. I look forward to creating my own Popsocket in the near future

     If you have any questions, please comment below or watch the video at https://youtu.be/k3z2Y4-YUlg

No Strings Attached!!!!!!

 The Apple AirPods are exquisite wireless Bluetooth earbuds that plummeted onto the market in September 2016. One of the features that makes them different from others alike is that they independently charge in a floss-like case that is compact and advantageous to users. This product permits the user to do a slew of things, which includes, listening to music, making phone calls and talking to Siri. The renowned W1 chip and sensors were developed, so the technology carries out an array of intricate tasks such as determining when the individual is using the AirPods.

The AirPods automatically synchronize with all Apple products. Individuals with mild hearing impairment can progress by utilizing the Apple AirPods to mitigate unnecessary stress. Each AirPod has a unique built-in microphone and sound system, which provides exceptional service to the user.  The sound quality is articulate and sharp making it easy to understand each word thus decreasing the fear of not comprehending perceptible information.

The wireless earbuds are a blessing for many people with physical limitations since they do not have to worry about untangling wires. One minor downfall to the AirPods is that those individuals with severe dexterity issues might have difficulty grasping each earbud to take them in and out of the case as well as putting them into the ears. Whether you are physically or visually impaired, you might require assistance to plug the AirPods in to charge.

Since the AirPods are wireless, they have benefitted me immensely in many ways. Each AirPod fits adequately in the portable case that it comes with, without the annoyance of wires. I like that the AirPods can remain charged for five hours given my hectic lifestyle. I primarily use my pods when I am listening to Spotify, making phone calls, and using a variety of apps. Unlike my past headphones, they are reasonably priced at $160. Prior to purchasing the Apple AirPods, I bought a trendy portable purple outer case that can conveniently attach to my keys. Since the AirPods are a viable tool that can foster independence, I recommend them to people of different ages, backgrounds, abilities, and disabilities.

If you are interested in learning more about the Apple AirPods or have any questions, I cordially invite you to contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com.

A good set of ears equals an excellent experience !!!!

Since the 1960s, the Plantronics Electronics Corporation has provided us with versatile and compact headsets that have enlightened us to engage in an infinite amount of responsibilities. The audio computer headset is extremely flexible and accessible no matter the situation. It conveniently connects to the computer via USB - no additional software necessary. The earphones work with all operating systems. Each device comes with a built-in noise-canceling microphone and volume controller that more easily allows the device to understand your speech. With this helpful tool, you can readily input information and enjoy music.

Speaking from experience, consumers with physical constraints can now utilize this technology for business and personal activities. The headset goes hand-in-hand with voice recognition software that allows for easy dictation. The microphone’s excellent quality, assures that almost one hundred percent of the dictated speech, is transcribed accurately from verbal speech to text. In addition, its rugged exterior does not permit it to fracture. Unlike other earphones, they are stowable. However, it should be noted that individuals with speech impediments might have an onerous time at dictating a multitude of information.

First and foremost, this multifaceted headset is a key steppingstone in my professional career.  Since, I have been using the Plantronics DSP- 400 headset in my day-to-day agenda; it has given me the capabilities to prosper effectively. I use it to dictate Word documents and make phone calls. The feature that I find most crucial is its ability to fold and bend. Its sturdy outer shell makes it simple to grasp and manipulate. In addition, the palpable wires tend not to tangle. The clarity of the microphone is superb. I recommend this product for people of all ages and backgrounds who want to revamp their skills. I feel that this apparatus is one of the best investments I have ever made. Without this headset, I think I would be lost. It is realistically priced, at $45 (currently on sale at Amazon.com for $29.99) and comes with a carrying case.

If you have any questions, or comments please do not hesitate to contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com
                                        

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More storage and less stress!!!

Since 1988, The SanDisk Company has been providing us with award-winning memory and storage technology. The iXpand USB flash drive is different from previous technology since it predominantly functions on smartphones and computers. The iXpand phone app guides individuals in organizing their videos, music, photos and more. This exquisite software frees up space and allows you to share your material securely. You can instantaneously transfer files and conveniently have everything readily available. The drive is compatible with various file formats. It comes in 16 to 256 GB depending on what you are looking for, with a price tag from $30- $200.

This device can eradicate stress for persons with physical disabilities since it is lightweight, yet wide in size so people might be less inclined to misplace their drive. Given its rugged metal exterior, it’s less likely to disassemble or break. Individuals with challenging dexterity can now handle and maneuver the drive fluidly, taking it in and out of their computer and mobile devices efficiently without the need for assistance. The newer model is much more compact and difficult to maneuver for people with dexterity difficulties.  As a tech savvy person who has physical challenges, I validate the legitimacy of this product

For me, using a flash drive is no longer an arduous task, but a breeze. I can save material at the click of a button. The feature that I find most crucial is its ability to automatically back up personal photos since I’m always on the go. I now have my vital information such as my resume at my fingertips. Since SandDisk is a reputable and reliable company you should try out their flash drives first hand. This way you always have what you need.

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When Grammar and Technology Collaborate

Individuals with an array of disabilities and abilities use proofreading applications to bolster their writing skills. Engineers design this software to ameliorate spelling, grammar, punctuation, style,,and structure errors. Three specific applications I will highlight are WhiteSmoke, LanguageTool and Microsoft Word. Each software application provides a free version that is accessible to anyone who wants to get a taste of some of the things it has to offer before purchasing. We reviewed the free versions.  Even though these programs have a conventional purpose, they are very diverse in many ways.

Language tool and WhiteSmoke are web-based applications. LanguageTool corrected four of seven errors, including homonym, verb tense, spelling and capitalization mistakes. It provided an explanation and offered a solution.  It missed three errors regarding verb tense, run on sentences and over-capitalization. WhiteSmoke identified a similar amount of errors, but also reported some mistakes inaccurately. The writing window was small and difficult to navigate.  I also felt that it berated the writer, by stating that their work was poor. Throughout the duration of using these websites, I found them to be quite stressful and frustrating. Overall, I felt that each of the websites performed below par, but LanguageTool was better.

 Microsoft Word is a word processor with built-in proofing software. When using the program, it corrected five errors that included capitalization, verb tense, homonym and sentence structure mistakes. Unlike the web-based applications, it helped me to improve the strength of one of my sentences. Even though it is not one hundred percent accurate, their suggestions were more helpful and easy to understand. One of the built-in features that behooved me the most was the text-to-speech read back. It allowed me to edit my work in a timely fashion. I highly recommend this software to anyone who needs assistance with their writing. The practical aspect about using Microsoft Word is that their proofing services are free and there is no need to download anything.

Please share your experiences with proof reading services below!

Utilizing Technology to Live a Well-Balanced Holistic Lifestyle

HoMedics® sleep solutions™ Sound Soother
The HoMedics enterprise, established in 1987, is one of the leading manufacturers in health and wellness merchandise. Their products include massagers, sound machines, and fitness trackers. Their Sleep Solutions Sound Soother machine is like no other of its kind. The machine is travel friendly, reasonably priced, ($50) and has a variety of twelve different earth sounds.

Since the sound machine has a placid effect, individuals with a variety of disabilities and needs can benefit immensely from this technology. Individuals with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and attention deficit now have another alternative to using medication. Adopting this holistic approach allows users to manage their symptoms effectively without the harmful side effects of prescription drugs. In order to reap what it has to offer, the machine should be used on a consistent basis in conjunction with light exercise. People who utilize this tool in recreational settings do so for yoga and meditation to better be mindful of their surroundings. When the mind, body, and soul function at their full potential, people live healthy constructive lives engaging in lucrative tasks.

Given people’s hectic, chaotic lifestyles, I profoundly endorse the sound system for anyone who needs a peaceful and calming environment to decompress and have time to themselves. One of the qualities that is most crucial is its compact size, since units like these tend to be quite cumbersome. Whenever overwhelmed with melancholy, I put the device on campfire and I drift off into sleep that lasts for hours. Individuals with dexterity issues might have difficulty manipulating the device. These consumers can use the Amazon Echo, which is voice controlled and discussed in one of my previous blogs.

If you are interested in listening to the intricate sounds or learning how to operate the device, please check out the video: https://youtu.be/aiecNXcQuF8

Switch Adapted Play with Pups and Pals!

With our Fall FUN Fest coming up on Sunday Oct 15 (9am-1pm), we decided to have some fun switch adapting a GoDogGo ball launcher for our favorite Canine Companion in training, Midnight! Connecting an adapted switch, like the red one in the pic, to the remote enables anyone to use any body part to throw a ball to their favorite pup or friend!

This adaption can be completed in three simple steps:
The first pic shows everything you need:
a soldering iron, solder, wire cutter, battery interrupter, and adapted switch.

1) Peel back the sticker face to unscrew the remote box
(don't even ask what we tried before we saw this!)












2) Use a wire cutter to clip off the  copper end of a battery interrupter cord,  and then strip/expose the wires at the end that you cut off -
(alternatively, you can make your own receiving jack/wire less expensively by using speaker wire and a 3.5 female jack -http://www.instructables.com/id/No-Solder-Battery-Interrupter/)

3) Solder the wire to the terminals shown below inside the remote- You can test the connection by simply holding the wires on these terminals before soldering.We snaked the wire back out the top screw hole (before soldering, but maybe after we had cut that screw trying to get into the box ;/

-



That's IT! Put it all back together, connect any adapted switch, and HAVE FUN PLAYING BALL!

If you need more specific instructions or help, feel free to contact us at: kvanden@wihd.org

Service Dogs and Technology Collide As One

With today’s assistive technology, Canine Companions for Independence collides with technology in that service dogs can be used with a variety of different power chairs and scooters. Service dogs can facilitate individuals with disabilities just like assistive technology.

Canine Companions for Independence (CCI), established in 1975, is a philanthropic organization that provides service dogs to individuals with disabilities. They provide four distinct types of service dogs (service, assisted service, hearing and facility) for individuals with a plethora of disabilities. The dogs are proficient in an array of different commands and tasks that coincide with the client’s specific needs. Some examples include, but are not limited to, opening doors, retrieving items, and pulling a wheelchair. One of the most beneficial features of being paired with a service dog is its ability to provide emotional support.

Applicants who may qualify for CCI services can enlist by requesting an application online. Those who qualify must undergo a phone and in person interview to receive a dog. Once approved, in order to become more acclimated with the dog, recipients must attend a two-week training with the dog at a CCI facility.

Having the privilege to know a CCI volunteer puppy raiser and having done my research has given me the credentials to understand what the organization has to offer. I’ve had the opportunity to meet a CCI dog in training named Midnight. She is a Labrador retriever with a docile demeanor who is extremely obedient. She answers to a variety of commands and engages in basic skills in order to facilitate her future companion.

 I strongly recommend this organization to anyone who is in need of the service dog. It is the oldest and most reputable organization that provides dogs free of charge. Individuals who are disabled do not have to compromise their independence or security when having a service dog.

For further information on how to obtain a dog or offer to volunteer for CCI please contact CCI at 631-561-0200 or you can visit the website at www.caninecompanions.org

Alexa has ‘skillz’

Since, the Amazon Echo is such a conducive and sophisticated tool it is serviceable in so many different outlets. This allows for spontaneous and lucid access. In order to reap the advantageousness of the Echo, the user must download the Alexa app to their phone, which features an infinite amount of skills. Users who have difficulties accessing their phone may have trouble adding skills. The Echo skills are similar to phone apps. They can do a plethora of tasks such as; rehash data, notify people, play music, and give direction among an incredulous amount of other capabilities.

One skill of Alexa that behooved me was the enormous amount of meditation skills. I found them to be quite relaxing, therapeutic, and enjoyable given that I do yoga on a daily basis. I highly recommend the meditation skills Peaceful Meditation and ZenMood to anybody who is depressed or overwhelmed with anxiety.

Ask My Buddy is a complementary service that works on the Amazon Echo, similar to a ‘Life Alert’ emergency contact system. People who are physically impaired can now live independently and alert their personal contacts with the sound of their voice if in need of help or medical attention. The app will send an expedited message via phone and/or email. When I first accessed Ask My Buddy, it had a difficult time understanding my voice, but as time progressed it became familiar with my voice. When my contacts were alerted, they were flustered since I did not explain the program ahead of time. I strongly recommend you do!!! Overall, I think it’s a wonderful service in which people do not have to compromise their independence or security. Please be advised that Ask My Buddy should not be used in place of 911.

These are two of many skills that Alexa has to offer. Do you use any Alexa skills that you find interesting or beneficial and would like to share?

Let’s meet Alexa!!!!!

The Amazon Echo and Echo Dot are intricate devices that use smart technology and a personal assistant named Alexa to carry out a plethora of mundane tasks. Some of the positive attributes include news, reminders, time, alarms, music, calculators, and more. The system is controlled entirely by the user, primarily by saying the word Alexa. In order for Alexa to run properly you must have an Internet connection and an Amazon account.

When the Echo first permeated the market in November 2014, people were not cognizant of how it would facilitate disabled people in their everyday agenda until individuals were able to try it out for themselves. For example, my uncle who is blind uses Alexa in everyday life. The Echo helps him with a myriad of tasks such as listening to the news and getting the date and time. At first he was very reluctant to explore Alexa but after he used it he felt it was the best thing he ever tried. He now has everything at his fingertips which was once a struggle.

Based on my voluminous research and ongoing experience I can honestly say that I strongly recommend the Echo to anyone who’s interested in the technology. Given all its functions and features, the only setback that I find with it is the quality of the speakers. What entices me the most is its ability to send reminders to my phone given my hectic lifestyle.

If you are interested in what the Echo has to offer please click below to check out my video:
Fallon meets Alexa!