Technology Update

Happy April! New blooms for a new month. Complete this short survey to let us know what you need to "learn to bloom."
 
Today’s edition of our weekly e-newsletter focuses on technology. People with disabilities can benefit greatly from recent tech advances. We’d love to hear what’s working in your world. Tell us more here.

"I am always doing that which I cannot do,
in order that I may learn how to do it."
 
 --Pablo Picasso

Integration, ingenuity and inclusion.
 
Good things come in small packages, including high tech products that improve independence for people with disabiilites. You probably know about how helpful Alexa and Google Home can be. Countless other products can turn your house or apartment into a “smart home” virtually overnight. Doorbells, thermostats, blinds and many major household electronics can now be controlled via voice, smart phone or computer.
 
This is all happening because major creative forces are finally recognizing that accessible products are good for all consumers. Apple’s Voice Control makes phones and tablets easier for people of all abilities to operate. For those with mobility and dexterity challenges, other accessibility features open the door to a whole new world of productivity and skills. Voice recognition software gets better everyday. Even shoe laces have become more user-friendly, thanks to advances in adaptive design.
 
Venture capitalists are now funding new and exciting start-ups that focus on helping people with disabilities live more independently. Architects are designing with inclusion in mind and recognize that independence and freedom are important to people everywhere. Lawmakers in some parts of the world recognize that private homes aren’t the only buildings needing improvement. Recently-passed legislation in the UK now requires new shopping centers, movie theatres, colleges and more to provide public “changing rooms” for people with disabilities and their caregivers. This advancement offers dignity and independence and improves overall quality of life. It's about time!
 
Developments must echo the voices and ideas of people with disabilities themselves. And we need to work harder to make such advances affordable to the people who need them most. Finally, we should also be mindful of how technology is taught, and develop community partnerships to ensure that people with disabilities have access to training as well as just hardware.
 
There's an app for that.
Here are some of our favorite applications to assist with a variety of disabilities.

What are yours?
 
 Dragon Dictation
 Google Maps
 Parking Mobility
 Home Budget App
 Cloud Cam
 Super Vision
 Be My Eyes