Home Access Program Blog

The following blog post is the beginning of a multi-part series on Adaptive Equipment for your home. In the next series of posts we will be discussing different solutions to your access needs for different areas in and around your home.

Computers

Using a computer can be quite a challenge depending on your disability. With today’s technology, accessing your computer is easier than ever before with the help of a variety of devices designed to meet your specific needs.

Purchasing adaptive computer equipment made specifically for people who have a difficult time using the traditional computer and mouse will make your time more productive and your efforts less cumbersome.

Adaptive computer technology is the use of special computer software and hardware to aid people with disabilities in accomplishing challenging tasks. Providing adaptive computer equipment to people with disabilities gives disabled people the opportunity to complete an education and have a job.

Examples of computer adaptive equipment that allow individuals with disabilities to have better access to computers include: modified or alternate keyboards, touch screen monitors, and voice to text software.

Using adaptive computer equipment gives people the opportunity to have complete access to computers and the internet, allowing tasks to be completed. Tasks made possible through adaptive equipment include: reading, writing, taking notes, communicating, and accessing on-line information.

For more information on adaptive computer equipment visit: www.allegromedical.com

Posted by Denise under Advice & General | 1 Comment »

Are you considering an assisted living facility for yourself or someone you know? Relocating to an assisted living facility is a difficult decision to make. Before making your final decision, you need to determine if this is the right decision for the individual. Assisted living facilities are perfect for individuals who need help with daily living activities but who want to continue to live their life independently as long as they can. Upon arrival, the facility will meet with the individual and create a service plan to meet your needs including specific services requested by the resident and guaranteed by the facility.

When you have narrowed your choices to 2 or 3 different places, it is time for an on-site visit, to meet with the administrator and medical professionals. While visiting, consider if the facility looks, feels, and smells good. Talk to some of the residents and get feedback on their experiences at the facility. During your appointment, ask yourself if the center:

* Meets your individual needs, including safety measures?

* Is the facility wheelchair and walker friendly?

* What is the availability of the units and their cost?

* How are the residents greeted? Are the resident greeted by their first name?

* What is the temperature and cleanliness of the facility?

* Can the residents choose to eat in their rooms or the dining room?

* Is the food nutritious, appetizing, and prepared according to dietary restrictions?

* Are pets allowed in facility?

* Are the residents content to be living at the facility?

* What are the qualifications and availability of the staff?

* What services are available to meet your needs?

* What types of programs do they offer and what is the availability?

* Does the facility meet local and state licensing requirements?

* Is government, private, or corporate assistance available?

* What are the costs, including any additional fees for extra services?

* Are residents provided with a service plan reviewed on a quarterly basis?

For more information visit: http://www.helpguide.org/elder/assisted_living_facilities.htm

Posted by Denise under Advice & General | No Comments »

Are you a disabled person living in either a house or apartment? If you are an individual with special needs, you should recognize how your disability will affect your ability to escape from fires in the home. When coordinating your emergency escape plan, make special arrangements for your ability level.

Fire Safety Precautions:

1. If your disability limits your ability to move quickly and efficiently, keep your bedroom on the ground floor.

2. Place a smoke alarm and CO2 detector on every level of the house. If you have difficulty hearing the alarm, consider purchasing one with flashing lights or one with a louder sound made specifically for an individual with special needs.

3. Post emergency phone numbers next to the telephone. If using a teletypewriter (TTY) or telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), place it next to the bed. Call your fire department if you are unable to escape on your own and inform them of your location. Ask the fire department for advice of what you should do concerning your disability. Purchase a cordless or a cell phone so you can carry it with you.

4. While developing your escape plan, involve everyone in the house. If you are unable to escape independently, plan to escape with a partner to assist you. Practice the emergency escape plan several times so people can determine if they can hear and respond to the smoke alarms. If there is anyone who requires a guide dog or extra warnings, include these in the escape plan.

5. Become familiar with the exits in every room of the house. If using a walker or wheelchair, make sure that you will be able to move comfortably through the doorway. Alter each doorway if you need to by adding an exit ramp or widening a doorway for easy escape.

Posted by Denise under General & Safety | 1 Comment »